High plateau hike: Hochschneeberg – Klosterwappen (summit hike)

This plateau hike from the Schneebergbahn mountain station takes you up to the Klosterwappen summit, the highest point in Lower Austria at 2,075 meters (6,807 ft). It’s a loop that offers an alpine hiking experience that’s suitable for the whole family. The Salamander playground provides entertainment at the start or end of the route. During the hike, you’ll also enjoy views of the Empress Elisabeth Memorial Church, the highest church of the Archdiocese of Vienna.

You’ll hike on wide mountain trails to the Damböckhaus, a good option for a snack break. The trail continues to wind its way over the Ochsenboden and up to the Klosterwappen, where you can enjoy the sensation of being on the highest ground in the region.

After taking photos on the summit, you’ll continue on the Schneeberg ridge to the Kaiserstein and on to the Fischerhütte, another place where you can recharge your batteries. From there, you’ll return to Ochsenboden and the mountain station.

The mountain station is accessed by a characterful cog railway, an experience in itself. Check the weather forecast carefully before committing to this hike and wear appropriate hiking footwear. Stops on the plateau, like the Damböckhaus and the Fischerhütte, allow you to take shelter if necessary and give the kids a break if you’re hiking as a family.