The best traffic-free bike rides in the High Tauern

There are 13 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes listed in this guide for the High Tauern. These routes range from moderate to difficult, offering diverse experiences for road cyclists.

The High Tauern region offers dramatic alpine landscapes, including majestic mountains, glaciers, and picturesque valleys. You'll encounter breathtaking panoramic views, especially on routes like the Fuscherkarkopf – Grossglockner High Alpine Road loop from Hochtor, which ascends to high-alpine scenery.

While many routes in the High Tauern feature significant elevation gains, family-friendly options often follow gentler paths along valleys or dedicated cycle paths. The region's extensive network includes routes suitable for leisure cyclists and families, such as the Tauern Cycle Path, which offers a mostly gentle journey. A moderate option from this guide is the On the Tauern Cycle Path – Niedernsill bathing lake loop from Enzingerboden Weißseeseilbahn.

The High Tauern is rich in natural wonders. You might encounter spectacular waterfalls like the Umbal Falls, impressive gorges such as the Dabaklamm Gorge, or explore unique geological formations like the Eisloch Cave. Many routes also offer views of the iconic Grossglockner mountain.

The best time for road cycling in the High Tauern is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is more stable, mountain passes are typically clear of snow, and the landscapes are vibrant. Always check local conditions, especially for high-alpine routes, as weather can change rapidly.

Yes, many of the routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Hochtor Pass Summit (2,504 m) – Fuscherkarkopf loop from Heiligenblut or the more moderate Kals am Großglockner – View of the Großglockner loop from Kals am Großglockner.

The routes in this guide are primarily moderate to difficult, reflecting the alpine terrain of the High Tauern. You'll find 8 moderate routes and 5 difficult routes, with significant elevation gains on many of them. Cyclists should be prepared for challenging climbs and descents.

The High Tauern region has a well-developed public transport network that can assist cyclists. Many valleys and towns are accessible by bus or train, which can help shorten routes or provide transport to starting points. It's advisable to check specific transport options and bike carriage policies for your chosen route in advance.

The High Tauern is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.37 stars from 156 ratings. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking high-alpine scenery, the challenge of iconic passes like the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, and the well-maintained infrastructure that caters to cyclists.

The Hohe Tauern National Park protects a unique high-alpine environment. While cycling is generally permitted on designated roads and trails, it's important to respect park regulations. This includes staying on marked paths, not disturbing wildlife, and adhering to any specific rules regarding protected areas. For detailed information, you can visit the official National Park website: nationalpark-hohetauern.at.

Many towns and villages in the High Tauern region, especially those serving as starting points for popular routes, offer designated parking areas for visitors. For routes accessing high-alpine passes, specific parking facilities are often available at the base or along the route. It's recommended to check parking availability for your specific starting point before your trip.