Hiking to Upper Austria's Special Peak
At 2,515 m, the Grosser Priel is the highest peak in the Totes Gebirge mountain range and is not without reason considered a symbol of Upper Austria. This magnificent two-thousand-meter peak is now one of the 25 most prominent mountains in the Alps.
From the valley, the striking red summit cross can be clearly seen – but not everyone can see it up close. Because thehigh alpine and scenically magnificent tourleads to the summit on rocky and steep paths and should only be attempted by experienced mountain hikers.
The first part of the hiking trail to the Prielschutzhaus, past the Klinser Waterfall and the Thank God Bench, takes you to Sweating and gives a small taste of the remaining stages.
The 22-kilometer hike (there and back) is only recommended in stable and dry weather. The best seasons are summer and autumn. You have the option of hiking this mountain in a day tour or in two day stages. The Prielschutzhaus at 1,420 m above sea level is ideal for an overnight stay, which you can reach in about three hours from the municipality of Hinterstoder.
The normal route from the Prielschutzhaus to the summit takes you over the Brotfallscharte. This route is secured by regular wire ropes. Experienced hikers can also tackle a via ferrata and an alpine climbing route.
Alternatively, you can also climb the Grosser Priel via the Welser Hütte at 1,726 m above sea level. From here, head towards the Fleischbanksattel. Once you reach your destination, you will be rewarded with a fantastic view of the steep rock faces and the Stoder Valley.
Our tip:
If you want to test your endurance during your holiday in Hinterstoder, you can first take the hike to the Prielschutzhaus. Once you reach the hut, you can fortify yourself with delicious regional dishes.
Here is the Prielschutzhaus restaurant.
Good to know:
Since 2019, Austria's longest via ferrata has led to the top of the Großer Priel.
Getting there:
Approximately 2 kilometers past Hinterstoder, there is a large parking lot on the right side of the road - "Parkplatz Schiederweiher." From here, the tour to the highest peak in the Totes Gebirge begins!
