“Vorderer” Lake Gosau
The classic excursion!
The Vordere (front) Lake Gosau in front of the shiny ice backdrop of the Dachstein mountain range –to the right flanked by the sharp pinnacles of the Gosaukamm - one of the classics amongst the postcard images. No wonder that the visit to the unique cultural landscape in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut is one of the most beautiful destinations in Austria.
The front Gosau Lake: remnants from the Ice Age
The Vordere Lake Gosau is a remnant of the last ice age. The Ice Age glaciers carved out the trough, where then the water was dammed. At its far end Lake Gosau has several, partially underground inlets. The outlets are also below the water level: a part flows through artificial tunnels and tubes to a power plant at the end of the Gosau valley; a part flows through natural cracks and crevices and resurfaces in the Brunnbach streams.
Hiking around Lake Gosau
Let us begin our hike around Lake Gosau. With views of the Dachstein, we first hike along the left side of the lake: On the sunny side, steep forests alternate with sheer cliffs. The forests consist of spruce, fir, larch, beech and maple, which push up as far as the treeline. The rock walls are partially overgrown with heather in the spring there are endless displays of alpine primroses in rich yellow. Towards the end of the lake, after the part of the path that was blown out of the mountain, we find puny birches on the dry stone heaps. Among the low-hanging branches of trees grow magnificent soft cushions of moss. At the end of the lake, where we change to the other side of the lake, is a healthy spruce - fir forest growing on the gravel soil. It is reassuring to see how the younger pines growing under the umbrella of the older trees.
On the way back, on the shady side, we pass uprooted tree trunks. In 1987, an avalanche of the century tore a wide strip out of the forest. In the summer months we are overawed by slopes of blooming alpine rose. Let yourself be enchanted with the approximately one-hour tour around the Lake Gosau in the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut.
During summer the small mountain lake counts as one of the most beautiful destinations within the Salzkammergut, for both sunbathers and water lovers. Just before the end of the hike around the picturesque mountain lake, there is a large meadow located just below the circular hiking trail, which is also suitable for pushchairs. Here guests and locals meet on hot summer days to take a dip in the cool waters. In addition various other spots are inviting to take a swim in Lake Gosau. So do not forget your swimsuit!
If you want to relax after your walk around Lake Gosau and enjoy some culinary delights, then we recommend you make a beeline to the Seeklausalm. The rustic alpine hut, with hearty meals from the typical Salzkammergut cuisine, is located above the circular hiking trail and is just a five minute walk. Additionally, the Gosauseewirt not only offers a unique mountain panorama, but also excellent cuisine which is well known even beyond the borders of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut. We hope you enjoy hiking around the Lake Gosau.
VIODEO
Hiking around Lake Gosau
Tips: Hiking in autumn
Autumn is here! Hooray! The most beautiful hiking season of the year! However, there are a few things you should keep in mind when hiking, especially at this time of year.
- Plan tours properly.
- Start early. Especially for high alpine hikes.
- Attention: It gets dark early!
- If you are staying overnight in a hut, register in good time by telephone.
- Do not miss the last cable car ride down the mountain when on mountain tours.
- Information on the current operating times of the cable cars in connection with a hike can be found below under "Information at a Glance".
- Check snow conditions. Because at this time of the year the first snow can already fall in the high mountains.
- We have summarised further important safety tips below.
- We wish you an unforgettable hiking autumn in the Salzkammergut.
Your editorial team
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 the Gosau Lakes
The Gosau Lake Experience
Gosau | Breath-taking glacial views, rustic alpine huts, challenging fixed-rope climbing routes, sensational water settings—a travel destination with endless possibilities!
‘Klackl or Seeklausalm’ on Lake Gosau
Gosau | Klackl or Seeklausalm: Alpine hut with down to earth comfort and fantastic views of the Gosau lake and the Dachstein glacier. Alpine life with water wells and cows - super idyllic!
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.