Hiking · Nature · Sports
Tor Hike – Through the Gate beneath the Dachstein South Face
approx. 5:30 h (14.2 km, ~820 m ascent) · difficult · For experienced hikers with surefootedness and no fear of heights · Free8,7 km
The Tor hike is one of the most striking alpine loops beneath the Dachstein’s soaring south walls. From the junction by Neustattalm/Walcheralm, you ascend on meadow paths and through larch stands before the trail steepens across rubble to the namesake ‘Tor’—the natural gap between Raucheck and Torstein. Beyond, waymarked paths traverse below the cliffs to Südwandhütte, then return via alpine pastures to the start. This route demands fitness, surefootedness and confidence on exposed, rocky ground—but rewards with sweeping panoramas, dramatic limestone scenery and tranquil pastures.
Route overview
Begin at the Neustattalm/Walcheralm junction on the Dachsteinstraße. Pass Neustattalm to Maralmboden and toward Bachlalm. At the Schaidlalm crossroads, follow trail no. 614 towards Sulzenhals and the ‘Tor’. A rough, stony ascent leads to the notch between Raucheck and Torstein. From the junction, continue on no. 617 (Pernerweg) below the South Face to Südwandhütte. Return on alpine tracks past Gasthof Hunerkogel and Walcheralm back to the starting point.
Difficulty & gear
Rated “hard”: sustained rubble and boulder sections, steeper slopes and some exposed traverses require solid fitness, surefootedness and a head for heights. Sturdy boots, weather layers, sun protection, sufficient water and snacks are essential; poles help on scree, a light helmet is optional. Avoid the tour in rain or thunderstorms.
Nature & photo spots
Expect vivid contrasts: golden larches in autumn, lush pastures, rugged talus and the sheer Dachstein limestone walls. Top photo stops include the ‘Tor’ notch, the traverses beneath Torstein, and Südwandhütte’s terrace with views across the Enns valley and Schladminger Tauern. Marmots often show up around the pastures near Walcheralm and Bachlalm.
Refreshments & options
Südwandhütte offers a prime stop (seasonal). Depending on fitness and weather, add a short detour towards Windlegerscharte or keep to gentler pasture paths for the return. Public transport works well via bus 960 to Glösalm; several classic Ramsau pasture loops start nearby.
- Natural ‘Tor’ notch between Raucheck & Torstein
- Grand views of the Dachstein South Face
- Südwandhütte for a scenic break
- Alpine meadows and larch forests near Neustattalm/Walcheralm
Tip: Use bus line 960 to “Glösalm” and walk 10 min to the start. Set off early; consider a light helmet for boulder sections and note the Dachsteinstraße toll. Optional detour to Windlegerscharte or marmot watching near Bachlalm.
Getting there: From Schladming center take bus 960 (Planet Planai) to stop “Glösalm”, then 10 minutes on foot to the Neustattalm/Walcheralm junction. By car: B320 to Ramsau, then Dachsteinstraße (toll) to the parking at the junction. Driving time about 25 min.
Price: Free of charge. Toll/bus/parking on the Dachsteinstraße may apply (partly included with Schladming-Dachstein Sommercard). Check current tariffs. As of September 2026.
Last updated: September 17, 2026
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route.
8,7 kmas the crow flies from winter.gartenTour on bergfex ↗Google Maps ↗
frequently asked questions.
How long and how hard is it?
About 14.2 km with ~820 m gain. Rated “hard” on bergfex; you need to be surefooted and comfortable on exposed, rocky ground.
Best season?
Late spring to autumn in stable weather. Avoid after heavy rain or when thunderstorms are forecast.
Suitable for children?
Only for very experienced, surefooted teens with supervision. Not suitable for small children.
Public transport access?
Yes. Bus 960 from Schladming to “Glösalm”, then 10 minutes on foot to the start.
Any huts on the way?
Yes, Südwandhütte (check opening times) and several inns/alms along the Dachsteinstraße such as Walcheralm/Glösalm.
What gear do I need?
Sturdy boots, layers, sun protection, food/water and poles recommended; a light helmet can help on boulder sections.
