Hohe Tauern National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Austria

Hohe Tauern National Park

Hohe Tauern National Park is Austria's largest national park, offering spectacular alpine vistas and diverse ecosystems. It is a haven for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking awe-inspiring natural beauty.

National Park700,000+4+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

700,000+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Hohe Tauern National Park

Hohe Tauern National Park is Austria's largest national park, offering spectacular alpine vistas and diverse ecosystems. It is a haven for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Hohe Tauern National Park spans across three Austrian states: Carinthia, Salzburg, and Tyrol. It covers an extensive area of over 700,000 acres, making it the largest national park in the Alps. The park is characterized by towering mountain ranges, including the Grossglockner, Austria's tallest peak at 12,461 feet. Biodiversity is rich here, with habitats ranging from glacial valleys to alpine meadows. The park is home to an array of wildlife, including ibex, chamois, marmots, and over 200 bird species such as the golden eagle. Established in 1981, the park is not only a place of incredible natural beauty but also a vital site for conservation. Visitors are drawn to its vast network of trails, which offer opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and via ferrata climbing. Notable landmarks include the Pasterze Glacier, the largest in Austria, and the picturesque Krimml Waterfalls. The park also houses cultural treasures such as traditional alpine huts, which offer insight into the region's pastoral heritage. Whether for thrilling outdoor adventures or tranquil experiences, Hohe Tauern provides an unparalleled escape into one of Europe's most unspoiled landscapes.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hohe Tauern National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Grossglockner, Austria's highest mountain peak✦ Pasterze Glacier, the largest glacier in Austria✦ Krimml Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfall series in Europe✦ Traditional alpine huts offering cultural history and refreshments
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hohe Tauern National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hohe Tauern National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance to the park is free, but some attractions like the alpine road require a toll.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Hohe Tauern National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Campingplatz Bruck

Fairly large developed campground offering modern amenities close to hiking trails.

National Park Campground Grossglockner

Located at the base of Grossglockner, offering convenient access to various trailheads.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hohe Tauern National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Heiligenblut, Austria
⌖ 4.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Heiligenblut, Austria

Heiligenblut is a gem for adventurers seeking alpine trails, winter sports, and iconic peaks. With the majestic Grossglockner and Hohe Tauern National Park at its doorstep, it's the perfect base for exploring Austria's natural wonders.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Matrei in Osttirol, Austria
⌖ 12.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Matrei in Osttirol, Austria

Matrei in Osttirol is an alpine adventure hotspot, ideal for hikers, skiers, and nature lovers. Set in the heart of dramatic mountain scenery, it promises diverse outdoor activities for all.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Kaprun, Austria
⌖ 13.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kaprun, Austria

Kaprun offers a thrilling alpine adventure with year-round activities. From skiing on a glacier to hiking through pristine trails, it's a perfect hub for outdoor lovers.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Zell am See, Salzburg
⌖ 16.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Zell am See, Salzburg

Zell am See is a beautiful alpine town in Austria, offering thrilling skiing and snowboarding in winter, and stunning hiking and water sports in summer. Surrounded by mountains and a picturesque lake, it’s an adventurer's paradise.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Flattach, Austria
⌖ 19.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Flattach, Austria

Flattach is a perfect alpine getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. With activities ranging from skiing on Mölltal Glacier to hiking in Hohe Tauern National Park, you'll find adventure all year round.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Krimml
⌖ 29.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Krimml

Krimml, in the Austrian Alps, captivates with its majestic waterfall and offers hiking, biking, and winter sports for adventure enthusiasts. It's an ideal spot for outdoor exploration.

Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hohe Tauern National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Wasserkraft, tiefe Entspannung: Hydrojet massage in Flachau
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Flachau, Salzburg
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Wasserkraft, tiefe Entspannung: Hydrojet massage in Flachau

A short, expert guide to Almlust’s Hydrojet massage — a targeted, water-driven treatment designed to dissolve muscle tension after a day in the Salzburg mountains.

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