The described route is a multi-day trek through the Hochschwab massif, which—depending on pace, fitness level, and planned breaks—can be comfortably completed in three to five days. It passes through a wide variety of landscapes typical of the Hochschwab region: from forested valleys to alpine plateaus, and on to prominent summits and extensive karst formations.
The starting point of the tour is the village of Seewiesen, a well-known base for numerous hikes in the Hochschwab area. From here, the ascent begins gradually along hiking trails and forest roads toward Seeleiten. Along this section, elevation is steadily gained while the scenery slowly transitions from dense valley forests to more open alpine terrain.
After approximately four kilometers, you reach a key trail junction. From here, a detour to Hohe Weichsel is possible. This summit is one of the region’s notable viewpoints and, in clear conditions, offers impressive panoramic views across the Hochschwab massif and the surrounding mountain ranges. After reaching the summit, the route returns to the main trail.
The tour then continues toward the central Hochschwab plateau. The objective of this stage is the Schiestlhaus, located near the highest point of the massif. On the way, you eventually reach the summit area of Hochschwab at around 2,277 meters. This section is among the scenic highlights of the entire route. The expansive karst terrain, typical sinkholes, and open plateau give this part a distinctly alpine character.
After crossing the Hochschwab massif, the trail continues in a southwesterly direction, passing near the Fleischer-Biwak—a small emergency shelter primarily intended for mountaineers. From there, the hike continues to the Häuslalm hut, which serves as a good rest stop along the route.
The trail then leads westward to the Sonnschienhütte. This hut is beautifully situated on a high plateau and is ideal as an overnight stop. Especially on multi-day hikes, it is a popular base before beginning the long descent into the valley.
Before descending fully, it is worth taking a short detour from the Sonnschienhütte to Ebenstein. This summit is one of the best viewpoints in the area and offers wide-reaching views across the Hochschwab massif and toward the Eisenerz Alps.
After returning to the Sonnschienhütte, the final stage of the tour begins. The trail descends toward Leopoldsteiner See, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Styria. Its turquoise waters, surrounded by steep rock walls, form an impressive conclusion to this varied multi-day traverse through the Hochschwab region.
Overall, this is a demanding yet highly diverse traverse of the Hochschwab massif, requiring both good endurance and sure-footedness. With its combination of summits, plateaus, huts, and alpine landscapes, this route ranks among the most impressive multi-day hikes in the region.
Tour Data
Total distance: 53 km
Total duration: 3–5 days
Region: Styria
Mountain range: Hochschwab Range
Summits:
Seeleiten (1,734 m)
Hohe Weichsel (2,006 m)
Hochschwab (2,277 m)
Ebenstein (2,132 m)
Public Transport
By train from Vienna Central Station (Wien Hbf), Railjet RJ 553 toward Graz Hbf
→ to Kapfenberg station
Then from Kapfenberg station (forecourt):
Bus 170 toward Mariazell
→ to Seewiesen am Hochschwab
→ get off at the final stop in Seewiesen
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