Hike to the Donnerkogel in Gosau
For the experienced mountain enthusiast
The view from the Donnerkogel over the Gosau Valley to Lake Gosau is considered by mountain hikers to be one of the most beautiful in the entire Salzkammergut. But be careful: only well-equipped and experienced mountain enthusiasts should set off on this hike.
By Cable Car to the Starting Point
Modern technology helps us on the ascent. In this case, the Gosaukamm cable car, which takes us safely and comfortably to the starting point of our 2.5-hour hike. We have summarised the current cable car journey times for you below under "Information at a Glance".
Let's go!
From the mountain station of the Gosaukammbahn cable car, you initially hike along the wide hiking trail to the Gablonzerhütte and Breininghütte and then turn left onto hiking trail no. 611 (Austriaweg).
Hike past lush alpine meadows up to the “Obere Törleck” at the foot of the “Kleiner Donnerkogel”. From there, the trail goes slightly downhill and after reaching the “Unterer Törlecksattel”, turn left at the fork in the trail (the “Austriaweg” to Stuhlalm is on the right) onto the steep and partially exposed summit trail no. 628.
Note: The entrance to the popular Intersport via ferrata with the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ to the Donnerkogel is also in the immediate vicinity.
Summit happiness with panoramic views
First you take the summit trail no. 628 past green alders and mountain pines, then you hike over rock slabs, scree, steep rocky steps and through a short gorge towards the summit. After around 1.5 hours, you reach the summit and are rewarded with a 360° panoramic view of the Dachstein, the Gosaukamm, the “Bischofsmütze” (Bischop’s Hat) and the magnificent view down to Lake Gosau. The descent follows the same route! Allow around 2 hours for the return journey. And note the exact journey times of the Gosaukamm cable car for the return journey from the mountain.
Tips: Hiking in spring
The days in the Salzkammergut are getting longer. The temperatures are finally getting warmer, more and more hikers are heading to the mountains. But be careful: Especially in spring, there are a few things to consider: There is often still a lot of snow on the mountains, so be careful when crossing snowfields. After winter, you are usually still a bit "rusty", so warm up accordingly in advance and plan your tour carefully. Let your host know the planned route. This can lead to quick help in an emergency. But there's more to consider:
Tips: Hiking in spring
The days in the Salzkammergut are getting longer. The temperatures are finally getting warmer, more and more hikers are heading to the mountains. But be careful: Especially in spring, there are a few things to consider: There is often still a lot of snow on the mountains, so be careful when crossing snowfields. After winter, you are usually still a bit "rusty", so warm up accordingly in advance and plan your tour carefully. Let your host know the planned route. This can lead to quick help in an emergency. But there's more to consider:
Safety Tips for Hikers
Admittedly, the landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut is the absolute pinnacle for hiking fans, mountain enthusiasts and nature lovers—unforgettable tours to incredibly beautiful mountain lodges and meadows, panorama views as far as the eye can see and cherished moments that will last a lifetime! However, you should remember that while hiking you might find yourself in high-alpine terrain. We’ve put together some resources to assist you: how to best prepare for your tour, recommended items for your backpack and steps to take in an emergency situation. Remember to always play it safe and enjoy your hiking adventure in the Salzkammergut!
Warning: Closed trails
Better to know before you go
Hiking trails in the Salzkammergut can be closed for various reasons. To help you prepare for your hike, we have set up a page with current road closures in the region. This will help you get to your destination without any detours or stress. Click here to visit the page...
More offers around this hiking tour
Gablonzer hut / Gablonzerhütte
Gosau | Gablonzerhütte: Both a haven and the perfect starting point for unforgettable moments in the Dachstein West hiking region. Passionate hikers will love the fantastic sunny terrace with views of the Dachstein glacier.
Hiking World "Dachstein West" in Gosau
The alpine pasture area of the "Dachstein West hiking region" in Gosau offers numerous hiking opportunities - from easy and stroller-friendly to difficult multi-day tours. Hiking with the whole family - in the Salzkammergut, of course.
Events along the way
Guided climbing offers in the Salzkammergut
Fri, May. 17, 2024 Car park Goisern Mitte, Bad Goisern
Hike with musical entertainment in Gosau
Sun, Jul. 7, 2024 11:00 — 19:00 Zwieselalm, Gosau
Musical alpine day at the Zwieselalm in Gosau
Thu, Aug. 15, 2024 11:00 Zwieselalm, Gosau
"90 years of the Gablonzerhütte" celebration in Gosau
Sun, Oct. 13, 2024 11:00 Zwieselalm, Gosau
Available accommodation for your hiking holiday in the Salzkammergut
Hotels and accommodation providers in Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun offer the ideal room or apartment for your holidays, no matter what your tastes. Aside from establishments rated according to the international "star" scale, you will also find around Lake Hallstatt in Austria businesses that have been awarded two to four "edelweiss". The more flowers, the greater comforts you can expect. Whether you eventually find your cozy nest in an elegant 5-star luxury hotel, at comfortable guesthouse, a family-friendly apartment, or on a traditional farm, the choice is always entirely up to you.