Hike from the Gemeindalpe to Lake Erlaufsee

Hike around Erlaufsee with a climb to Gemeindealpe

Starting point

You can park your car at the lower station of the cable car to Gemeindealpe in the village of Mitterbach. The hike itself begins at the summit of Gemeindealpe.
 

Description of the hike

We set out from our lodging in Mitterbach toward the cable car. We had coffee and a sausage at the Terzerhaus near the upper station of the cable car. Then we headed to the summit of Gemeindealpe and back onto Trail 622 toward the Halterhütte auf der Brach mountain hut. We continued across the pastures toward the valley below Gemeindealpe.

From the red trail 622, we turned onto the blue Neukogler-Brunnsteinalm trail, which leads through the woods to Lindenhof. Then follow the red trail No. 06 to Lake Erlaufsee and along its shore past the boat rental to the junction with the red trail 06B, which will take us back to Mittarbach. For this hike, you’ll need good hiking boots, a windbreaker, a raincoat, a snack, and plenty of water. During the hike, you’ll occasionally be near cows.
 

Difficulty

A relaxing all-day hike. The route alternates between forest roads, trails, and, at the end, a paved path around the lake. The route is not suitable for dogs, as the ride to the top of the Gemeindalpe mountain is by chairlift. In some places, you’ll walk past herds of cows. No strollers; use a baby carrier for children. Standard hiking gear is sufficient (good shoes, windbreaker).
 

Water availability

Bring 1.5 liters of water per person. There is a restaurant at the top station of the cable car, and along the way you’ll find the HalterHutte auf der Brach mountain hut. Another option is at Lake Erlaufsee.
 

Sleeping options

There are plenty of places to stay around Lake Erlaufsee. For example, the famous town of Mariazell is nearby. We stayed right in the village of Mitterbach.
 

Mountain peaks

The trail begins at the top of the Gemeindealpe at 1,626 meters above sea level. From the summit, there are spectacular views of the Ybstal Alps, the Ötscher, the Hochschwab, and more.
 

Danger

The trail also passes through pastures where there are quite a few herds of cows. These can theoretically be dangerous. There have already been reports of attacks on people.
 

Food

I recommend bringing a snack with you—rolls, salami, cheese, granola bars, Tatranka cookies, and water.
You can get refreshments at the Tetzerhaus lodge and at the Halterhutte auf der Brach mountain hut. Another option is at Lake Erlaufsee.
 

Attractions

Along the blue trail are the smaller chasms known as Wetterloch and Schweigeralmschacht.