Hiking · Nature · Sports
Hochwurzen Ridge Trail to the Giglach Lakes
6:00–7:00 h · difficult · 1–10 people · from 0 €4,9 km
The Hochwurzen ridge to the Giglach Lakes is one of the most scenic day hikes in the Schladming Tauern. The cable car saves substantial ascent and drops you at Hochwurzenhütte. From here, the trail undulates over larch- and pine-studded crests with short rocky sections, crossing Roßfeld, Guschen, Hochfeld and Schiedeck while the Dachstein massif remains your constant backdrop. The turquoise Giglach Lakes soon fill the view. Multiple hut options and an organized bus return make this challenging alpine route pleasantly manageable.
Route & difficulty
From Hochwurzenhütte, follow trail no. 60 via Kleine Wurzen to Hüttecksattel, then a nature trail to the Roßfeld ridge. Continue via Latterfußsattel to Guschen, traverse past the Schneider, below Hochfeld and on to the striking Schiedeck. Expect short cable-protected passages and rocky terrain—sure-footedness, stamina and a head for heights are essential. Above the lakes, steep switchbacks lead down to Ignaz-Mattis-Hütte and Giglachseehütte.
Views & nature
The crest delivers far-reaching views to the Dachstein and across the Schladming Tauern. Dwarf shrubs, stone pines and larches accompany the way. The serene Brettersee and finally the shimmering Giglach Lakes are highlights. Please stay on marked trails and respect grazing and protection areas—alpine habitats are fragile and recover slowly.
Food stops & return
Begin with a snack at Hochwurzenhütte; at the finish, Giglachseehütte or Ignaz-Mattis-Hütte await. For the return, descend to Ursprungalm (about 1 h from the lower lake) and take the Planai hiking bus back to Rohrmoos/Schladming. Check cable car operating times and bus schedules in advance—many services are included with the Schladming-Dachstein Card.
Gear & safety
Wear sturdy boots and pack water, sun protection, warm layers and rain gear. Weather can change quickly at altitude—go only on stable forecasts. The route is partly exposed and rocky; move carefully, especially on cable-secured sections. Up-to-date hut info, maps and a GPS track increase safety.
- Continuous ridge views toward the Dachstein
- Summits: Roßfeld, Guschen, Hochfeld & Schiedeck
- Brettersee and the twin Giglach Lakes
- Huts for food: Hochwurzenhütte, Giglachseehütte, Ignaz-Mattis-Hütte
Tip: With the Schladming-Dachstein Card, one daily round trip on the Hochwurzen cable car is included—ideal for a relaxed start.
Getting there: From Schladming center, drive the L722 to the Hochwurzen cable car base (about 10 min). Or take the city/regional bus to “Gipfelbahn Hochwurzen Talstation.” Return from Ursprungalm/Giglach Lakes by Planai hiking bus.
Price: Hiking is free. Optional: Hochwurzen cable car round trip Adult €24.50, Child €14.00. Planai hiking bus Ursprungalm is free with the Schladming-Dachstein Card; otherwise per Verbundlinie fare. As of August 2026.
Last updated: August 5, 2026
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route.
4,9 kmas the crow flies from winter.gartenTour on bergfex ↗Google Maps ↗
frequently asked questions.
How difficult is it?
Challenging. Sure-footedness, a head for heights and good fitness required. Pure hiking time about 6–7 hours.
Is it suitable for kids?
Only for experienced, sure-footed teenagers. Not appropriate for small children due to exposed, rocky sections.
Can I do it car-free?
Yes. Bus to the Hochwurzen cable car base, cable car up, return from Ursprungalm/Giglach Lakes by Planai hiking bus to Schladming.
Where can I eat?
Hochwurzenhütte at the start; at the finish, Giglachseehütte and Ignaz-Mattis-Hütte (seasonal opening).
Is the Schladming-Dachstein Card needed?
Not mandatory, but helpful: one daily lift round trip (incl. Hochwurzen) and some hiking buses are included.
When is the best time?
Late spring through autumn in stable weather. Avoid snow and thunderstorm risk.
