Traunstein - Mair Alm Steig

For a Traunstein ascent, it should be mentioned in principle: the Traunstein as the "guardian of the Salzkammergut" is to be respected. Sure-footedness, a head for heights, stamina and a good level of fitness are basic requirements for a Traunstein tour.

Trail no. 412 Mair Alm Steig - walking time: 3 hours.

From the car park at the turnaround, follow the Lainautal road for an hour to the "Kaisertisch". This is where the actual ascent of the Traunstein via the Mair Alm Steig begins.

Well-developed path from the Kaisertisch in the Lainautal to the plateau between the Fahnen- and Traunkirchnerkogel. The oldest and easiest ascent. Somewhat arduous due to the long approach via the Mairalm forest road. Recommended for children and inexperienced hikers, often done on the descent.

The start is just a few minutes before the Mairalm at the so-called "Kaisertisch", a marvellous resting place right next to the Lainaubach stream. The climb is easy and well-marked and leads up through the forest, quickly gaining altitude in countless hairpin bends. After crossing the tree line, the view of the Lainau valley and the neighbouring mountains to the south becomes clear. After around 1 ½ hours, you reach the "Bründl", the only place on the entire Traunstein where you can quench your thirst at the spring.

After this refreshment, you are ready for the steeper rocky sections that follow. The often damp and slippery slabs of the "chain" are well secured and allow you to climb quickly. After more than 2 hours of walking, the path leads to the high plateau of the summit region. If you follow the path to the left, you will reach the Naturfreundehaus in a few minutes; if you branch off to the right, you will reach the slightly higher Gmundnerhütte and continue to the summit cross.