Trek across the highest mountain of the Schneealpe - Windberg

Trek through the Windberg and Kleine Mitterbergwand in the Schneealpe mountains

Starting point

The forest parking lot at the end of the toll road in the southern part of the Schneealpe Mountains. The toll costs 10 Euro. The car park is at an altitude of about 1,400 m above sea level.
 

Description of the hike

After the experience of previous years, we once again took advantage of the high parking lot on the toll road, which saved us many vertical meters. From the car park we took the wide road that supplies the shepherds on the plateau. The road cuts into the mountainside and winds up the plateau in several switchbacks. The climb is gentle so there is plenty of time to enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains, especially Raxalpe. At the end of the climb, we took a shortcut along a mountain trail that cuts through more serpentines. Then we were on the plateau.

We continued towards the Windberg mountain. We passed by the Michlbauerhütte. Then the climb up to the Windberg itself began. A classic mountain path leads to the top. The climb is a bit steeper, but it's nothing terrible. Soon we found ourselves on the summit enjoying the beautiful weather and views. We then continued along the unmarked but distinctive trail to the Kleine Mitterbergwand. This leads along a beautiful ridge, almost in a straight line. We walked under the mountain itself and climbed to the top.

After a short rest, we returned and went down to the Michlbauerhütte. Here we had a light lunch and replenished our fluids. Then we headed back to the car in the parking lot. The road is the same as the climb, so we were soon back at the car.

 

Difficulty

A very easy trek made easier by the high parking lot. A wide path leads up to the plateau. Beyond that are mountain trails and meadows. The altitude is not too high for the Alps. Ideal for a family trip or a trip with children. You can also go up to the plateau with a pram.
 

Water availability

On the Schneealpe plateau there is the Schneealpenhaus and the Michlbauerhütte. We replenished our energy in the latter.
 

Sleeping options

We had accommodation in a valley below the mountains. Last time we slept in the car in the parking lot for a change. It is also possible to stay at the Schneealpenhaus right in the mountains.
 

Mountain peaks

The route leads over the Windberg 1 907 m above sea level and the Kleine Mitterbergwand 1 863 m above sea level.
 

Danger

This is a completely relaxing trek where there is no danger. You walk all the time on wide paths or alpine meadows. Even the top of the Windberg is wide. The ascent of the Kleine Mitterbergwand is equally easy. There is no signpost, but there is a clear trail to it along the beautiful mountain ridge. The route is also ideal for children or dogs.
 

Food

Meals are served in the Scheealpenhaus and Michlbauerhütte. We ate at the latter.