1. Start in Hirschwang und Aufstieg über den Törlweg
We start our hike in Hirschwang an der Rax, a well-known starting point for tours onto the Rax plateau in southern Lower Austria. From the village, we initially follow Emil-von-Linhart-Gasse, which gently ascends out of the settlement. After a short time, we reach the edge of the forest and leave the last houses behind.
At a larger trail junction, we keep to the right and continue following the path towards the Rax plateau. The trail initially leads through forest terrain and climbs only moderately, making it easy to ease into the hike. After about two kilometers, we reach the Törlweg, an important access route to the Rax plateau.
From here, we continue uphill along the clearly visible path. The trail runs through dense forest and partially over rocky terrain. Along the way, small clearings repeatedly open up, offering beautiful views toward the Rax massif and into the Höllental valley. We follow this section for approximately 4.5 kilometers.
2. Durch die Felsen zum Ottohaus
During the ascent, we pass a distinctive rock formation through which the trail leads directly. This feature is an interesting scenic highlight of the tour and serves as a useful point of orientation. After passing the rocks, the terrain gradually changes: the forest becomes more open, and the landscape noticeably flattens.
Across this open terrain, we eventually reach the Ottohaus, a well-known mountain hut on the Rax plateau. The Ottohaus is located at around 1,640 meters and is a popular resting point for hikers and mountaineers. From here, you already have impressive views of the surrounding Alpine foothills as well as the nearby Schneeberg.
3. Gipfelabstecher auf den Jakobskogel
For those who want to include a summit, the Jakobskogel can be climbed from the Ottohaus. To do so, we initially head south until reaching a junction. There, we turn north and follow the trail to the summit. The ascent is short and technically easy.
The walking time from the Ottohaus to Jakobskogel is approximately 20 minutes. Once at the top, you are rewarded with beautiful views over the Rax plateau and the surrounding peaks of the Rax–Schneeberg group. Jakobskogel is therefore a worthwhile and easily accessible viewpoint to conclude the tour.
Tour Data
- Total distance: 7.5 km
- Total duration: 3–5 hours
- Region: Lower Austria
- Mountain range: Rax–Schneeberg Group
- Summit: Jakobskogel (1,773 m)
Public Transport
From Vienna Central Station (Wien Hbf)
→ towards Villach Hbf
→ to Wiener Neustadt Hbf
(alternatively: direct connection to Payerbach-Reichenau station via CJX 9)
From Wiener Neustadt Hbf
→ CJX 9 (train no. 2929)
→ to Payerbach-Reichenau station
From Payerbach-Reichenau station (forecourt)
→ Bus 342
→ to Hirschwang an der Rax, Emil-von-Linhart-Gasse
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