Lynx Trail - Through Austria’s wild heartlands

The Lynx Trail is a long-distance trail with 11 stages through three large internationally recognised protected areas and fringes Austria's first UNESCO World Heritage Site (beech forests). It goes through Austria's wild, wooded middle, repeatedly recognised by the Alpine Convention as a pilot region for its ecological network.

The stunning mountain landscape is probably the largest natural wooded area in central Europe. This is why the lynx was re-introduced here. The trail highlights the plight of this endangered animal, contributing to its protection and survival. A happy coincidence is that the trail also takes you through extremely attractive walking country.

As a hiker on the Lynx Trail you will be challenged. The stages are long with steep ascents. Your senses will also be challenged - keep your eyes and ears open. But don't worry, even if you don't see a lynx, you will feel the presence of this amazing animal.

Stage 1: Reichraming - Anlaufalm

Entry into wilderness: through the Kalkalpen National Park's wild forests on stunning narrow trails.

Stage 2: Anlaufalm - Laussabaueralm

In the midst of the lynx's realm: through the lonely Hintergebirge to the rustic Laussabaueralm.

 Stage 3: Laussabaueralm - Admont

Back to Civilization: over the Haller Walls to Admont with its famous Abbey.

Stage 4: Admont - Klinkehütte

Back to Nature: over the lonely Scheiblegger Hochalm into the sunny south-side of Gesäuse National Park.

Stage 5: Klinkehütte - Johnsbach

Far-reaching views: from the viewing platform looking towards the Gesäuse Mountains and the mountain-climbing village of Johnsbach.

Stage 6: Johnsbach - Ennstalerhütte

Worth seeing: a short valley stage to relax; or a tough spectacular alternative route into the Yosemite of Austria.

Stage 7: Ennstalerhütte - Mooslandl

Cross the northern Gesäuse Mountains past the Ennstaler mountain hut.

Stage 8: Mooslandl - Palfau

Varied: along the valley accompanied by the wild Salza river und through the impressive Noth Gorge.

Stage 9: Palfau - Lassing

Reward for hard work: grand finale in Mendlingtal at the finish of a long but beautiful stage, or an option to go over the Moaralm.

Stage 10: Lassing - Hochreit

Step into the wilderness: a lonely high-altitude hike past the Hochkar ski area to the Dürrenstein wilderness area.

Stage 11: Hochreit - Haus der Wildnis, Lunz am See

ATTENTION: The last stage of the Luchs Trail is diverted away from the Ybbstaler Hütte. You go via the Lechnergraben to Lunz. The ascent to the Dürrenstein is possible (2h), but you have to go back to the Ybbstaler Hütte. The detour is not marked as a lynx trail!

 from 4400 Steyr - 4452 Ternberg - 4462 Reichraming Railway Station

 from  3335 Weyer - 4463 Großraming - 4462 Reichraming Railway Station