L4 Borsee route

The Schleifenbach-Klause route has a length of 18 km and an ascent of 697 m. The route mostly runs along well-maintained forest roads except for a small section near the Kogleralm.

We start the route at the Schönau bus stop; alternatively, there are also parking lots down by the bridge that crosses the Enns River.

After the bridge, follow the Schönau main street past the (former?!) Jagahansl snack station until we reach some houses in Schönau on the Enns. From here, continue on gravel forest roads. Initially flat, we run along the Schleifenbach and then keep ascending until we reach the Schleifenbach Klause after 4.5 km. A newly built wooden bridge crosses the Klause to a small hut next to Borsee. We continue keeping left along the lake, passing the wild meadow until the Kogleralm. Here, we leave the forest road and climb a trail in the woods for the next 1.5 km. Then again on very well-maintained forest roads until at km 10.5 we reach the highest point of our route. A small rock to the right of the road marks this point with a magnificent view over Bodenwies and the nearby Gesäuse. From here, it’s all downhill, running not too steeply for the next 8 km down the road. Repeatedly looking at the emerald green Enns River until we return to the Enns bridge.

No dining options, bring enough to drink as it can get quite warm in summer due to the south-facing location.

The required equipment always depends on the specific route and weather conditions. Regarding provisions: this is very individual, and it is advisable to have more rather than less of both equipment and provisions. A 5 km route in the valley requires less than a demanding route in the mountains. The weather can change quickly, and if you are not constantly moving or need to take a break, warming clothing is of great importance.

We have a general checklist for you here:

Weather-appropriate running gear for the respective season – weather forecast – region – altitude. This includes, among other things: * a waterproof rain jacket * waterproof rain pants suitable for running * gloves and warm headgear (cap/headband/tube scarf) * sunglasses + sunscreen + headgear for very warm days

Trail running shoes

Water bottles, soft flasks, or a hydration bladder with enough fluid for the respective route (possibly also salt tablets/magnesium)

Snacks for an energy boost in between: energy bars, gels, chocolate, trail mix,

Running backpack: ideally a trail running vest / a trail running backpack or a waist belt for short routes.

Drypack: so that your valuables or change of clothes stay dry (optionally a small trash bag)

Emergency blanket

Small first aid kit. An Israeli bandage is very recommended in my opinion: it is a one-handed operated wound and pressure bandage. Details can be found here.

Emergency whistle (often integrated into trail backpacks)

Mobile phone

Maps (online and/or offline)

E-Card or insurance card

Some cash

Crampons/spikes: these can be very helpful in winter and icy conditions.

Folding poles for trail running

Headlamp