Korntauern crossing

As a starting point for this route, we choose Mallnitz train station (1179m) because we will arrive there by train at the end. First, we head to Mallnitz and a bit into the Tauern valley to the Gh. Gutenbrunn junction. Following this direction, we soon reach the junction to the Mindener Hut via the Wittener path. Via a steep ascent, we first reach the Hindenburghöhe (2315m) and the Liesgelespitz (2408m). On a narrow ridge and over boulders, it continues down to the Weißenbachscharte (2278m). Surefootedness and absence of vertigo are absolutely required here! Then it goes up to the Mindener Hut (2431m), a model self-catering hut with stove and sleeping places. The path then leads eastwards without significant ups and downs along the Carinthian border path to the next signpost, which does NOT indicate the direction to “Korntauern”! So we turn north and after a short ascent reach the 2469m high Korntauern, which was used as a trade route by people 5000 years ago. The descent through the charming valley of the Tauernbach takes us to Böckstein train station after 3 hours. The train covers the route to Mallnitz, for which the hiker needs 10 hours, in 11 minutes.

In mid-June, many snowfields still need to be crossed between Mindener Hut and Korntauern. Therefore, appropriate equipment (ice axe and crampons) is necessary, or the route should be done later.