Hiking · Nature · Sports
Pleschnitzzinken – Summit Loop from Bottinghaus
approx. 2:30 h • 5.5 km • ↑↓ 490 m · moderate · 1–10 persons · Free13,6 km
This rewarding half‑day loop begins at the Bottinghaus car park above Pruggern. A quiet woodland path quickly leads beyond the treeline, then a gentle grassy ridge takes you to the summit of Pleschnitzzinken, a true balcony above the Enns Valley. Panoramas sweep from Stoderzinken to the Dachstein and the Schladminger Tauern. On the descent, the Galsterbergalm is perfect for a break on the sun terrace—and with a little luck you’ll spot marmots nearby. Well waymarked, family friendly, and ideal from late spring to autumn.
Route & difficulty
Follow the track from Bottinghaus for a few minutes to a junction, then take the marked forest path. Above the treeline the trail eases onto open grassy slopes. After about one hour you pass the small, unstaffed Pleschnitzzinken hut; from here it’s roughly 30 minutes up the gentle ridge to the 2,112 m summit cross. Descend along the ridge side to Galsterbergalm and a rooty trail back. Expect around 490 vertical meters overall—moderate effort for fit beginners and families with sure‑footed kids.
Views & nature
The summit offers a balcony‑like viewpoint: Stoderzinken, Dachstein, and the high Tauern peaks line the horizon. Early summer paints the slopes with blooming alpine roses; old larches dot the ridges. On the way down, Galsterbergalm often hosts grazing cattle—and marmots near their burrows. Please keep distance, do not feed wildlife, and stay on marked trails to protect fragile alpine flora.
Family appeal & refreshment
Short, varied sections keep kids motivated, and the summit feels like a real achievement. In warm weather the Galsterbergalm’s sun terrace invites a leisurely snack with grand views. Prefer an easier option? Turn the outing into a shorter alm walk. Keen hikers can extend the route along the ridge or combine it with nearby goals in the Gröbminger Land.
Gear & safety
Wear sturdy footwear and bring sun/rain protection, water, and snacks. Poles are helpful on the rooty descent. Mountain weather can change quickly—thunderstorms are common on summer afternoons. In early season, lingering snowfields may require caution. Dogs must be leashed; respect grazing livestock and close any pasture gates.
- Wide views to Dachstein and the Enns Valley
- Marmots around Galsterbergalm
- Short, kid‑suitable summit push
- Alpine hut stop with sun terrace
Tip: Best during rhododendron bloom (June/July). Marmots are often active in late afternoon near the alm. Trekking poles help on the rooty descent.
Getting there: From Schladming center drive B320 towards Liezen to Pruggern, then follow signs to Galsterberg/Pruggererberg up to Bottinghaus car park (partly gravel). Public transport: train to Pruggern, then taxi – no regular bus to Bottinghaus.
Price: Free of charge (hike & parking; seasonal regulations may apply). As of September 2026.
Last updated: September 25, 2026
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route.
13,6 kmas the crow flies from winter.gartenTour on bergfex ↗Google Maps ↗
frequently asked questions.
Who is this hike suitable for?
Fit beginners, families with sure‑footed children, and casual hikers. The summit ridge is gentle and non‑exposed.
When is the best time to go?
May to October, depending on snow. Particularly beautiful during the rhododendron bloom in June/July and on clear autumn days.
Where can I park?
At the Bottinghaus car park at the trailhead. The access road is partly gravel—drive carefully.
Can I get there by public transport?
Train to Pruggern, then taxi. There is no scheduled bus to Bottinghaus.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash. Follow pasture rules and keep distance from livestock.
Is there a hut for refreshments?
Yes, Galsterbergalm (check seasonal opening hours).
