Hochtor

The Hochtor is the highest peak of the Ennstal Alps and located in the Gesäuse National Park. In good weather, the view stretches from Dachstein to the highest peaks of Slovenia. From the Ennstal valley, this massive limestone giant looks invincible. From the other side, the Johnsbach valley, the mountain can be conquered over two paths, the Josefinensteig and the Schneelochsteig. The Josefinensteig is a protected path, not a continuously secured via ferrata; you should be comfortable with light and partially exposed climbing terrain (I). The Schneelochsteig is unsecured and also requires easy climbing (occasionally II). Ideally, one combines both paths into a round. Experienced climbers can follow the sun’s course and ascend via the Josefinensteig (east). Those who prefer to descend secured can go down the Josefinensteig and benefit from a place to stop at the Hesshütte. In this beautiful hut surrounded by larch forest, one can also stay overnight if they do not want to ascend 1600