Salzburger Almenweg
A long-distance circuit through the Salzburg alpine pastures, connecting traditional mountain dairies, forest trails, and limestone peaks in the heart of…
Route overview
The Salzburger Almenweg is a long-distance trail of approximately 350 kilometres that circuits the province of Salzburg through its traditional alpine pasture landscape. The route connects a network of Almen — mountain dairies where farmers produce cheese, butter, and other dairy products during the summer months — through forest paths, high meadows, and limestone mountain scenery. The trail passes through the Tennengebirge, the Dachstein massif, the Tauern ranges, and the Salzkammergut lake district. It offers a unique combination of agricultural culture and alpine scenery, with regular opportunities to sample traditional alpine dairy products at working Almen. The route is less demanding than the high alpine traverses but still involves significant daily climbing. The Salzburger Almenweg is well waymarked and supported by a network of mountain huts, guesthouses, and alpine dairies. It is a good choice for walkers who want to experience traditional Austrian alpine culture alongside mountain walking.
A long-distance circuit through the Salzburg alpine pastures, connecting traditional mountain dairies, forest trails, and limestone peaks in the heart of the Austrian Alps.
Trail facts
- Country
- Austria
- Region
- Salzburg Alps
- Distance
- c. 350 km
- Typical duration
- 3–4 weeks
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- c. 15,000 m cumulative
- Best season
- June–September
- Trail type
- Alpine pasture trail
Safety context
Some sections cross high alpine terrain exposed to weather. Cattle grazing on alpine pastures requires caution with dogs. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August.
Some alpine dairies are only open in July and August. The route involves daily climbing even though it avoids the highest peaks. Some road walking connects the pasture sections.
Highlights
Salzburg city start Tennengebirge limestone peaks Dachstein glacier views Tauern alpine meadows Werfen castle and valley Fuschlsee and Salzkammergut lakes Traditional alpine dairies Austrian alpine farming culture
Why find a buddy
A sociable alpine circuit through Austrian mountain culture, dairies and limestone scenery — a companion shares the alpine food experience and the daily mountain walking.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.