To the Triftsteig in the Kalkalpen National Park

The Reichraminger Hintergebirge is considered one of the most beautiful and largest primeval landscapes in Austria. Through its central part flows the so-called "Großer Bach" on which timber was once driven. Between the Schleierfall and the Annerlsteg is the narrowest and most interesting part of the gorge. In 1987, the Triftsteig was renovated and made passable again with steel cables and clamps. Partly, the via ferrata follows the old route of the Triftsteig, which was back then only equipped with narrow wooden footbridges, and lets you imagine the dangerous work of the timber rafters at that time.

Access approx. 1 hour from the parking lot leads along the gently descending forestry road downstream, until after about 2 km you reach a bridge to the cross-running main ditch. After the bridge, turn right and continue about 3 km to the "Schleierfall" (distinctive, small waterfall on the right side of the road; here is the junction to Anlaufalm via the so-called "Hochschlacht"; signpost). About 100m after the "Schleierfall" (at the next bridge to the tunnel) the "Triftsteig" branches off to the right (sign: 1st via ferrata).

Triftsteig: Immediately at the bridge begins the cable security and you cross ascending and descending on the right riverbank about 2 km through the wildly romantic gorge up to the meeting with the forestry road at the so-called "Annerlsteg" bridge. The path is continuously secured and you move in places exposed and always just above the water surface of the "Großer Bach". In between, there are always hiking sections on a narrow path, which can have wet spots due to cross-flowing small streams. The Triftsteig is passable in both directions.

The "Triftsteig" is about 2 km long, leading slightly up and down along the right riverbank to the "Annerlsteg" (also passable in the opposite direction). Duration: "Triftsteig": 1 - 1.5 hours. Total time without the circular route via the Anlaufalm: 3.5 - 4 hours. Return via the forestry road (several longer tunnels; possibly flashlight) back to the Schleierfall and continue as for access.

For children and less experienced individuals, basic via ferrata equipment and possibly a short safety rope (for children) are recommended.

Via ferrata difficulty: mostly A, with two short sections of A/B and B; in between there are always hiking sections, sometimes exposed (above the water surface). Partly secured with bolts and steel cables. Only for experienced!!!

Check the weather forecast before starting the route. In summer, approaching thunderstorms in the Hintergebirge are often noticed too late. There is no exit option along the Triftsteig. Surefootedness and no fear of heights - only for experienced!!!