Austria

Kalkalpen National Park

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Our Park in Numbers

1997

Year

Established in

21024

Square Kilometers

Area Size

0.15

Million People

Visitors last year

Euros

Entry Fee

Kalkalpen National Park

Kalkalpen National Park in Austria boasts ancient forests towering limestone peaks and diverse wildlife including lynx and golden eagles Visitors enjoy hiking wildlife watching and exploring historic alpine huts preserving natural heritage and promoting conservation and sustainable tourism in a pristine environment

Hinterstoder summit trailhead

Großer Priel summit viewpoint

Top things to see

1. Große Kessel waterfall a stunning cascade surrounded by lush forest

2. Hengstpass scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Alps and forested valleys

3. Eibenwald trail a unique hike through ancient yew tree groves

4. National park visitor center with interactive exhibits and guided tour options

5. Steyr river valley known for crystal clear waters and diverse wildlife sightings

Top things to do

1. Join a guided wildlife tracking tour to learn about animal habits and signs

2. Participate in a forest bathing session to deeply connect with the natural environment

3. Try night sky watching with a ranger to spot constellations and nocturnal animals

4. Take part in a traditional woodcraft or nature art workshop

5. Explore the park by canoe or kayak on nearby rivers or lakes

Climate

Kalkalpen National Park experiences cold snowy winters mild springs warm summers and cool autumns with average temperatures ranging from -5°C in winter to 20°C in summer and moderate rainfall year-round with occasional storms 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

15.3

Lows

3.2

1. Hike blooming meadows to see vibrant wildflowers and fresh greenery 2. Spot newborn wildlife like deer fawns and bird chicks in their natural habitat 3. Enjoy birdwatching as migratory species return and fill the forest with song 4. Explore crystal-clear streams fed by melting snow for peaceful nature sounds 5. Take guided tours to learn about spring ecology and conservation efforts

Summer

Highs

24.3

Lows

12.3

1. Hike the long-distance trails to explore dense forests and panoramic mountain views unique to Kalkalpen National Park 2. Join guided wildlife tours to spot lynx deer and rare bird species in their natural habitats 3. Camp at designated sites to experience the park's serene wilderness under starry summer skies 4. Attend ranger-led programs to learn about the park's ecosystem and conservation efforts 5. Participate in seasonal events like forest festivals and nature photography workshops

Fall

Highs

14.3

Lows

5.2

1. Hike the Almtal trail to enjoy vibrant fall foliage and crisp mountain air 2. Spot red deer during their rutting season for a unique wildlife experience 3. Join guided tours to learn about the park's autumn ecology and traditions 4. Visit the forest museum to explore seasonal exhibits on Kalkalpen's natural history 5. Attend local harvest festivals nearby for authentic regional food and culture

Winter

Highs

3.5

Lows

-3.2

1. Snowshoeing through pristine forests to spot wildlife tracks and enjoy silent snowy landscapes 2. Cross-country skiing on groomed trails offering panoramic views of snow-covered mountains 3. Winter wildlife watching to see deer foxes and birds adapted to cold conditions 4. Guided night hikes to experience the park's serene winter atmosphere under starry skies 5. Photography sessions capturing frost-covered trees icy streams and soft winter light

Getting Around

Explore Kalkalpen National Park on marked hiking trails or mountain bike paths use shuttle buses to access remote areas and enjoy guided tours for wildlife spotting and nature insights

Public Transport

Use regional trains to reach nearby towns then local buses connect to park entrances with hiking trails and shuttle services available for deeper exploration.

Parking Lots

1. National Park Center parking lot

2. Molln parking area

3. Hinterstoder parking lot

4. Windischgarsten parking area

5. Rosenau parking lot

Hiking in the park

Easy

Easy hikes in Kalkalpen National Park include the Almsee Trail 5 km 150 m elevation gain and the Hengstpass Trail 6 km 200 m elevation gain both offer gentle terrain and scenic views ideal for beginners.

Moderate

Moderate hikes in Kalkalpen National Park include the Hengstpass trail 10 km with 600 m elevation gain and the Großer Ödstein route 12 km with 700 m gain offering scenic forest and mountain views.

Strenuous

Kalkalpen National Park offers strenuous hikes like the Großer Pyhrgas trail 1400m gain 12km and the Admonter Reichenstein route 1300m gain 15km featuring rugged terrain steep ascents and stunning alpine views.