Bärenschützklamm
Hike through a dramatic gorge via over 160 bridges and 2500 stairs, offering stunning natural beauty and panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best weather for hiking
Bärenschützklamm
Best Time
Best weather for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through a dramatic gorge via over 160 bridges and 2500 stairs, offering stunning natural beauty and panoramic views.
"The Bärenschützklamm itself was closed because a lot of rain had caused it to dangerously overflow, but the hiking trail that leads to it is beautiful."
Park Smartly
Use lower parking lots (1 or 2). Upper lots are best for drop-offs only.
Bring Cash for Hütten
Mountain huts often operate on a cash-only basis.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gorge's Wooden Walkways
Bärenschützklamm
Traverse over 160 bridges and around 2500 steps through a dramatic, narrow gorge.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Upper sections of the trail
Ascend to viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Styrian landscape.
Alpine Huts (Hütten)
Along the hiking route
Rest and refuel at charming mountain huts offering refreshments and local treats.
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Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Status
Prepare for a Strenuous Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Would Bärenschützklamm be open on the days with light rain?
Park Smartly
Use lower parking lots (1 or 2). Upper lots are best for drop-offs only.
Bring Cash for Hütten
Mountain huts often operate on a cash-only basis.
Looking for destinations similar like Bärenschützklamm
Nature stops on the path from Graz-Linz?
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail involves many stairs and can be slippery. Good hiking boots are essential. :athletic_shoe:
Hydrate and Snack
Carry ample water and energy-boosting snacks for the long hike. :water_wave:
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Tips
from all over the internet
Park Smartly
Use lower parking lots (1 or 2). Upper lots are best for drop-offs only.
Bring Cash for Hütten
Mountain huts often operate on a cash-only basis.
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail involves many stairs and can be slippery. Good hiking boots are essential. :athletic_shoe:
Hydrate and Snack
Carry ample water and energy-boosting snacks for the long hike. :water_wave:
Enter Before 4 PM
Last entry is typically around 4 PM, though you can exit later.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular gorge, the unique experience of walking on numerous bridges and stairs, and the breathtaking mountain views. The challenging nature of the hike is often highlighted, with many appreciating the physical exertion and the rewarding scenery. Some find the descent difficult, and the potential for closures due to weather is a noted concern.
"Quite an amazing hiking.
We were a group of 10, with kids (youngest 9 years old).
Find parking at the lower parking lot 2 or 1
Don't try your luck with the upper one (only to drop off the kids and going by foot)
It took us 7.5 hr in total, 11.2km (~4 hours walking without stops)
From the parking to the cabin it's 2km, then 165 stairs sections up until the upper cabin.
From there back to the lower cabin it's the hardest part as the downhill is hard (my ankle hurts)
And back 2km down to the upper parking"
Eyal Lewin
"Prepare for a good hike :) take enough water and cash for the hütte. Otherwise the walk is medium level and the view of the gorge is spectacular."
Endre Hegedűs
"The Bärenschützklamm itself was closed because alot of rain had caused it to dangerously overflow, but the hiking trail that leads to it is beautiful and there are plenty of other alternative plans available. For example you can hike above the gorge to reach a hut in 1-2 hours."
Nick Laine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bärenschützklamm is accessible by car from Graz, taking approximately 30-40 minutes. There are designated parking areas near the entrance. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
Yes, there are parking lots available. It's advised to use the lower parking lots (1 or 2) as they are more accessible for longer stays, while upper lots are primarily for drop-offs.
Public transport to Bärenschützklamm is not straightforward. While buses might go to nearby villages, a car is the most convenient way to reach the gorge directly.
The gorge itself is a pedestrian-only hiking trail and not suitable for cycling. However, surrounding areas might offer cycling routes.
The driving distance from Graz to Bärenschützklamm is roughly 30 kilometers (about 18.6 miles), typically taking around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an admission fee for Bärenschützklamm. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance if possible, especially during peak season.
Bärenschützklamm typically opens in the late spring and closes in the autumn. Entry is usually permitted until around 4 PM, though visitors can stay longer to exit. Always check the official website for exact dates and times.
No, Bärenschützklamm is not open year-round. It is usually open from May to October, weather permitting. It can also close temporarily due to heavy rain or other safety concerns.
Last entry into Bärenschützklamm is typically around 4 PM. While you can exit after this time, new visitors are not admitted. Plan your visit accordingly.
Admission fees vary. It's best to consult the official Bärenschützklamm website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date pricing details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
A full hike through Bärenschützklamm, including the ascent and descent, can take around 7.5 hours, covering about 11.2 km. The walking time without stops is approximately 4 hours.
The hike is considered medium to challenging, with 165 sections of stairs and significant elevation changes. The downhill can be particularly hard on the ankles.
Restrooms are available at the mountain huts along the trail. While there are no public fountains within the gorge, carrying sufficient water is crucial.
Children can hike Bärenschützklamm, but it's recommended for those aged 9 and above due to the strenuous nature of the trail, stairs, and descents. Adult supervision is essential.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip. Layers of clothing are recommended as the temperature can change. Bring rain gear just in case. :athletic_shoe:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are mountain huts (Hütten) along the hiking route where you can purchase food and drinks. It's recommended to bring cash as not all huts accept cards.
The huts typically offer traditional Austrian snacks and meals, such as sausages, bread, cakes, and local beverages.
Absolutely! Bringing your own water and snacks is highly recommended, especially for the longer sections of the hike.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find spots along the trail or at the huts to enjoy your own packed lunch.
Yes, many huts offer hearty meals suitable for a full lunch or early dinner after your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The wooden bridges, cascading waterfalls, narrow gorge walls, and panoramic mountain vistas offer stunning photographic opportunities. Capture the unique perspective from the bridges. :camerawithflash:
The narrow walkways and potential for moisture can make photography a bit challenging. Be mindful of other hikers and secure your gear.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic experience. However, the dramatic light within the gorge can be captivating at any time.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but a camera with good low-light capabilities and a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for capturing the scale of the gorge.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural reserves and national parks for safety and environmental reasons. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as the journey is long. The mountain huts along the way offer a good opportunity for a break and refreshments. Consider the total time commitment and the physical demands before embarking on this hike with younger children. For families with very young children, exploring the initial, flatter sections near the parking lot might be a more manageable option.
🚶 Budget Travelers
As public transport is limited, driving is the most practical option, so factor in fuel costs. The hike itself is free once you've paid the entrance fee, making it an economical way to experience the Austrian Alps. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid potential weekend crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bärenschützklamm Hike: A Detailed Look
While the gorge itself is spectacular, the descent can be challenging. Hikers often report that going downhill is harder on the joints and ankles than the ascent. Proper footwear is crucial for navigating these sections safely. Along the route, you'll find alpine huts (Hütten) offering a welcome respite for food and drinks. These huts are a great place to rest, refuel, and enjoy the mountain atmosphere. Remember to bring cash, as card payments may not always be accepted.
Key considerations for the hike include checking the weather forecast, as heavy rain can lead to closures due to overflow or safety concerns. The trail is best enjoyed during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn. It's also advisable to start your hike early in the day, ideally before 4 PM, to ensure you have ample time to complete the circuit comfortably and safely.
Alternatives to Bärenschützklamm
Another accessible option within the city limits is Rettenbachklamm. Easily reachable by tram, this gorge offers a more urban-yet-natural escape. While perhaps less dramatic than Bärenschützklamm, it's a pleasant walk and a great choice for a shorter excursion or when time is limited. Both Kesselfallklamm and Rettenbachklamm provide opportunities to experience the natural beauty of Styria's gorges without the extensive commitment of the Bärenschützklamm hike.
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