Austria

Gesäuse National Park

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Our Park in Numbers

2002

Year

Established in

1100

Square Kilometers

Area Size

0.15

Million People

Visitors last year

Euros

Entry Fee

Gesäuse National Park

Gesäuse National Park in Austria features rugged limestone peaks deep gorges and diverse alpine flora and fauna including ibex and golden eagles Visitors enjoy hiking kayaking and climbing while exploring landmarks like the Enns River gorge highlighting conservation and natural beauty.

Admont Abbey viewpoint

Hochtor Pass viewpoint

Top things to see

1. Gesäuse National Park Visitor Center for maps info and exhibits

2. Admont Abbey nearby with its famous library and baroque architecture

3. Haindlkar Cave a unique limestone cave with guided tours available

4. Wasserlochklamm Gorge scenic viewpoint with waterfalls and rock formations

5. Reichenstein Peak challenging hike with panoramic views of the park

Top things to do

1. Try rock climbing on the park's limestone cliffs for an adrenaline rush and great views

2. Join a guided wildlife tracking tour to learn about local animals and their habits

3. Participate in a night sky stargazing event to see stars and constellations clearly

4. Take a river kayaking trip on the Enns River for a unique water adventure

5. Attend a traditional alpine cooking workshop to taste and learn local recipes

Climate

Gesäuse National Park experiences cold snowy winters mild springs warm summers and cool autumns with average temperatures ranging from -5°C in winter to 25°C in summer precipitation peaks in summer and notable weather includes occasional thunderstorms and heavy snowfall in winter

Official Website of the park

Throughout the seasons

Make sure to be prepared for every season when visiting the park

Spring

Highs

15.2

Lows

4.2

1. Hike blooming alpine meadows to see vibrant wildflowers and fresh greenery 2. Enjoy birdwatching as migratory species return and fill the park with songs 3. Take a guided river rafting tour on the Enns River for thrilling spring waters 4. Explore caves and rock formations with cooler spring temperatures 5. Photograph waterfalls at their peak flow from melting snow and spring rains

Summer

Highs

27.3

Lows

12.5

1. Hike the famous Gesäuse National Park trails like the Admont Gorge for stunning alpine views and waterfalls 2. Spot wildlife such as chamois ibex and golden eagles in their natural rugged mountain habitat 3. Camp at designated sites to experience the park's serene nature and starry night skies 4. Join guided ranger tours to learn about the park's geology flora and conservation efforts 5. Attend summer events like mountain festivals or outdoor workshops hosted by the park authorities

Fall

Highs

15.3

Lows

5.2

1. Hike the Gesäuse Trail to enjoy vibrant fall foliage and crisp mountain air 2. Spot red deer and chamois as they prepare for the rutting season in autumn 3. Join guided tours to learn about the park's geology and seasonal wildlife behaviors 4. Experience the peacefulness of the Enns River with colorful reflections of autumn leaves 5. Attend local harvest festivals nearby to taste regional foods and crafts

Winter

Highs

2.5

Lows

-5.2

1. Snowshoeing through frosted forests to explore quiet winter trails and spot wildlife tracks 2. Ice climbing on frozen waterfalls for an adrenaline-filled adventure in stunning icy landscapes 3. Winter photography capturing snow-covered peaks and frosted trees in the soft winter light 4. Cross-country skiing on groomed trails to enjoy the serene snowy valleys and mountain views 5. Guided wildlife tours to observe animals adapted to winter in their natural habitat

Getting Around

Explore Gesäuse National Park on marked hiking trails or mountain bike paths use shuttle buses to access remote areas and enjoy guided tours for safe navigation and wildlife spotting.

Public Transport

Use regional trains to reach nearby towns then local buses connect to park entrances hiking trails and visitor centers for easy access within Gesäuse National Park.

Parking Lots

1. Admont Visitor Center Parking
2. Johnsbach Village Parking Lot
3. Gstatterboden Main Parking Area
4. Haindlkar Parking near Trailhead
5. Weng Parking for Hiking Access

Hiking in the park

Easy

Easy hikes in Gesäuse National Park include the Wasserlochklamm trail 150m elevation gain 3km and the Ennstal Valley path 100m elevation gain 4km both offer gentle terrain and scenic views.

Moderate

Moderate hikes in Gesäuse National Park include the Wasserlochklamm trail 300m elevation gain 5km length and the Haindlkarsteig 450m elevation gain 7km length offering scenic views and manageable terrain.

Strenuous

Gesäuse National Park offers strenuous hikes like the Hochtor Trail 1500m gain 12km and the Admonter Reichenstein Route 1300m gain 10km both demanding steep climbs and rugged terrain.