© Photo: Steyr and the National Park Region/OÖ Tourismus GmbH_Stefan Mayerhofer: Hiking on the Ebenforstalm
Couple hiking on the Ebenforstalm in Steyr and the National Park Region, in the background an imposing rocky peak.
Couple hiking on the Ebenforstalm in Steyr and the National Park Region, in the background an imposing rocky peak.

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Hiking in the Kalkalpen National Park and the Steyr region

First put your right foot forward. Then your left. A curious butterfly flutters around. An eagle traces circles in the sky. The air is clear and smells of fresh grass and new beginnings. And then you have the unique colour palette of the limestone alps. Green as far as the eye can see. With shining white and grey shades in between. And the blue of burbling mountain streams and roaring waterfalls. Let your gaze wander. Let your soul take a breath. From peak to peak. From mountain cabin to mountain cabin. Hiking in the Kalkalpen National Park and the Steyr region is something very special which is hard to put into words. It simply has to be experienced. On your own. As a couple. With friends or family. The main thing is to be out there. In this unique natural landscape. 

 

© Photo: OEBB/Harald Eisenberger
Traveling with OEBB, two travelers with backpack in front of the train.
Hiking climate friendly
Discovering the most beautiful paths by public transport.
© Photo: Kalkalpen National Park/European Wilderness Society: UNESCO World Heritage Beech Forests
In the midst of the beech forests in the Kalkalpen National Park
UNESCO world natural heritage

The purpose of travelling is to get to a destination, the purpose of hiking is to be on the move.

A paradise for hikers 

There isn’t just one way of hiking. The popular leisure activity is all about the hiker himself. Some need an adrenaline kick, lofty heights and strenuous climbs. Others are looking for peace, idyllic locations and time out from their hectic everyday lives. And yet others want to capture nature on camera, identify plants and grasses, or set off in search of a lynx. No matter which of these groups you are in – as a hiker in the Kalkalpen National Park and the Steyr region you will find exactly what you are looking for. That’s because the area is so diverse

It offers easy walks and summit ascents for advanced climbers. A range of themed trails combine knowledge with natural wonders, inviting you to take a much closer look at the flora and fauna or traditional handicrafts. Or why not tackle one of the natur.BANK trails or push yourself to your limits on organised expeditions. The region is also crossed by numerous long distance paths and pilgrimage routes. They not only take you step by step to a particular destination, but bring you closer to yourself. When you go hiking in the Kalkalpen National Park and the Steyr region, even taking a break can be a highlight. Along the way you will find inviting mountain cabins serving regional delicacies. Those that want to can spend the night in a rustic Alpine hut. You couldn’t ask for a better mountain experience. And when your feet are finally longing to relax, you can take a hiking taxi.

UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site

All of this goes on in one of the most breathtaking settings: the Kalkalpen National Park. In Austria’s largest continuous area of woodland, countless beech trees set the tone. There are more than 15,600 hectares of pure primeval woodland. In 2017, along with the Dürnstein wildnerness area, the region was named as Austria’s first UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. Tours with National Park rangers provide a really in-depth introduction to this magnificent world. They give you first hand knowledge and keep a lookout for ibexes, golden eagles and many more. 

The excitement starts here!

Hiking in the Kalkalpen National Park and the Steyr region is pure exhilaration. An unrivalled natural experience. A thrill that captivates people of all ages. But it’s also a journey to your innermost self, to peace and contemplation. All against the backdrop of scenery that has not changed for millennia. So, lace up your boots and set off to hike in the Kalkalpen National Park and the Steyr region. But don’t take too much luggage, as you’ll need lots of space. For all the unforgettable moments you’ll enjoy on your journey.

© Photo: TVB Steyr National Park Region/C. Noemayer: Katzenstein mill in Weyer
Couple resting on a natural bench with view to the Katzensteinermuehle
natur.BANK.wege