Hochtausing crossing from east to west

Start and Approach

The tour starts at the Schönmoos 2 parking lot (1230 m / 4035 ft). Follow the forest road for 300 m to a fork. Either stay right on the road or take the meadow path toward Hochmölbling Hut. For the ascent, follow the forest road until Trail 281 branches off after about 1.6 km. Continue on the forest path, which later rejoins a forest road. After around 2.4 km, take another road to the right and follow signs to the eastern ascent (“Ostanstieg”) of Hochtausing.

Ascent via the Eastern Route

At the start of the Ostanstieg, a helmet is recommended. A via ferrata set is also advisable, as the route is exposed and only partly secured. The steep trail climbs through gullies, rocky sections, and narrow ledges, requiring sure-footedness and a head for heights. Most difficult sections are protected with steel cables, metal rungs, and solid handholds. Technically, the route is moderate (A/B). Red-white-red markings make navigation straightforward. Higher up, the terrain becomes easier, with a short unprotected gully (UIAA 1+) and one final secured downclimb before the route follows the east ridge to the summit cross.

View from the Summit

After about 2.5 hours, the summit of Hochtausing (1822 m / 5977 ft) is reached. The panorama includes Liezen and the Gesäuse mountains to the east, Grimming and Dachstein to the west, Hochmölbling to the north, and the Priel group to the northwest.

Descent via the Tonisteig

The descent follows the west ridge via the Tonisteig (B/C). A narrow path leads to the fixed ropes. The route descends steeply down the rock face with two ladders, cables, and solid holds. Although technically manageable, it is exposed and not ideal for those with a fear of heights. After about 30 minutes, a saddle at 1570 m (5151 ft) is reached. Descent through Tausingkar is forbidden, so continue on marked trail 282a along the southwest flank of Sonnwendköpperl.

Further Descent via Schneehitzalm and Langpoltenalm

After 20 minutes, reach Schneehitzalm. Keep right and continue on the hiking trail. The route then follows scenic alpine terrain and later a forest road via Langpoltenalm. The north face of Hochtausing remains in view. Eventually, rejoin the ascent route or take the more direct forest path, which returns to the original junction. From there, it is only 300 m back to the parking lot.

Conclusion

This is a varied and rewarding mountain tour with exposed via ferrata sections, scenic ridges, and outstanding panoramic views. Highly recommended for experienced hikers who enjoy adventurous alpine routes.