The route to Hochkönig is known as a proper "calf biter." A panoramic-rich adventure for mountaineers with a lot of stamina and endurance.
Start your ascent at the parking lot at Arthurhaus. The path to the Mitterfeldalm is well signposted and leads you through blooming meadows. After about 45 minutes, you reach the Mitterfeldalm, where you can take a short break. After the Mitterfeldalm, take the narrower, rocky path towards Torsäule. The path winds through the impressive walls of the Hochkönig massif and offers you beautiful views again and again. The Torsäule will appear as a majestic natural monument. The path gradually becomes steeper, vegetation decreases, and the landscape becomes more alpine. Here you feel the power of nature. The section below the Kleine Bratschenkopf requires surefootedness and freedom from dizziness. The ascent to the Schrammbachscharte (Kniebeißer) can be challenging, but the view that awaits you is worth the effort. After reaching the high plateau, you will be overwhelmed by the rugged glacier landscape. The view of the Matrashaus seems close, but there are still some smaller counterascents that challenge you. Keep your path in mind, especially in fog, as orientation can be difficult. The path is continuously marked and remains technically easy, so you can navigate safely. Overcome the last three ladders to reach the summit. With every step, you get closer to your goal and feel the anticipation of the summit. Upon reaching the summit, you stand in front of the Matrashaus. Enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding mountains and take your time to fully experience the beauty of this place. Let the moment sink in and celebrate your success!
Author’s recommendation
High alpine route with glacier passage! Only for experienced, fit mountaineers!
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Safety information
Self-assessment: Check your physical fitness before each mountain tour and correctly assess your strength as well as that of your companions – especially your children! Surefootedness and freedom from dizziness are often very important!
Planning and preparation: Plan every intended mountain tour carefully beforehand. Hiking maps and guides as well as information from alpine clubs and locals such as mountain guides and hut keepers can be helpful.
Equipment: You need appropriate equipment and clothing in the mountains, especially sturdy, high shoes with grippy soles. Weather and cold protection are essential as the weather can change unexpectedly.
Emergency equipment: Take a complete first aid kit, a mobile phone with power bank, and possibly a satellite phone.
Rope teams: For alpine tours with technical sections, it is advisable to go in rope teams. Practice the correct securing techniques and communication with your partners.
Glacier crossing: Watch out for crevasses and inform yourself about glacier conditions. Use the correct technique when crossing and always keep a safety distance.
Proper handling of altitudes: Watch for symptoms of altitude sickness (headaches, nausea, dizziness). Ascend slowly and allow yourself breaks for acclimatization.
Weather forecasts: Observe the current weather conditions at: zamg.at or www.uwz.at.
Interaction: Observe the 10 rules for proper interaction with grazing animals and leave no waste in nature!
Do not dislodge stones: Do not dislodge stones as this can seriously endanger other hikers. Marked areas with rockfall risk should be crossed as quickly and carefully as possible.
Turn back in time: This is not shameful but a sign of prudence. It becomes necessary when the weather changes, fog sets in, or if the path is too difficult or not in good condition.
Emergency numbers: Alpine emergency: 140, International emergency: 112, Rescue: 144
Tips and suggestions
Additional information about hikes and activities in the Hochkönig region:
For detailed information about hiking maps, summer opening hours of the mountain railways as well as huts and alpine pastures, we recommend visiting the local service center. There you will not only get the hiking map but also valuable tips on the best hiking routes and current conditions.
Summer opening hours of the mountain railways: The mountain railways offer various opening hours during the summer months, which can vary depending on the weather and season. Please check the current operating times in advance.
Opening hours of huts & alpine pastures in summer: The huts and alpine pastures in the area are ideal rest stops for hikers. Here, too, opening hours may vary depending on the season and day of the week. Let the friendly landlords advise you about local offers and specialties.
For further information please visit our website: www.hochkoenig.at.
If you have questions or want specific information, feel free to contact us:
Email: region@hochkoenig.at
Phone: +43 (0)6584 20388
We look forward to helping you and wish you lots of fun exploring the beautiful hiking region Hochkönig!
Roadbook
The easiest ascent to the summit of Hochkönig at 2,941 m follows trail no. 430 from Arthurhaus (V7) along a gravel road to Mitterfeldalm. It continues along a marked path past the striking Torsäule to the edge of the glacier Übergossene Alm. The last stretch to the goal leads over a flat firn field. Those who then overcome the steep section secured with ladders and ropes stand at the top – at the summit of feelings. Note: This route is only suitable for well-equipped and experienced mountain hikers. Accompaniment by a mountain guide is recommended. Always pay attention to the current weather situation.
Matrashaus
Public transport
Public-transport-friendly
ÖBB-Scotty: timetable information
Bus line 620: timetable information
Bus line 631: timetable information
Hiking bus: timetable information
Get Timetable to destination
Directions
Arrival coming from Salzburg: On the A10 motorway to the Bischofshofen exit, then on the B311 towards Bischofshofen. Follow the Hochkönig federal road/B164 to Mühlbach.
Arrival coming from Innsbruck/Kufstein: On the Loferer road/B178 towards St. Johann i.T., then via the Hochkönig federal road/B164 via Saalfelden and Maria Alm to Dienten and further to Mühlbach.
A valid vignette is required for using the Austrian motorway and expressway network. Carrying a first aid kit, warning triangle, and warning vest is also mandatory. Further info at Asfinag.
Via the Mandlwandstrasse towards Arthurhaus.
Parking
Arthurhaus parking lot.Coordinates
Book recommendation by the author
• Hochkönig, Albert Precht, Verlag Anton Pustet
• Meine Tour – Mountain tours guide Salzburg and Berchtesgaden
• The obstinacy of creation, Edition Schön & Gut at Verlag Anton Pustet
• Region Hochkönig, Dietmar Sochor, FST Verlag
• Stolperherz at Hochkönig, Eckhard Schröder, CreateSpace
Author’s map recommendations
• Hochkönig hiking map
• Freytag & Berndt WK 103 Pongau – Hochkönig – Saalfelden
• Kompass hiking map Tennengebirge – Hochkönig
• Rother hiking guide Hochkönig
Book recommendations for this region:
Recommended maps for this region:
Equipment
Clothing: base layer, insulation layer, outer jacket, hiking or climbing pants, gloves, hat/beanie, sun hat or cap
Backpack: size (30-50 liters for day trips, 50-70 liters for multi-day tours)
Shoes: mountaineering boots, climbing shoes, gaiters
Safety equipment: climbing harness, rope, carabiners, ice axe, crampons, avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe
Navigation: map and compass, GPS device or smartphone
First aid: first aid kit
Hydration: drinking system or water bottles
Snacks: energy bars and snacks
Sun protection: sunscreen and lip balm
Tools: pocket knife
Lighting: headlamp
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions