In the heart of the Gesäuse National Park is a particularly large and impressive valley through which the powerful Enns River flows. The name of the area comes from the German word “Gseis,” which means a rushing, gushing flow. Surrounding the river are high mountain peaks like Hochtor and Buchsteinstock. At the foot of the mountains, there are dense forests.
Throughout the park, you can observe a rich variety of animals and plants. About 900 different plant species grow in this area, as well as about 90 species of birds, about 45 species of mammals, 14 species of fish, 7 species of reptiles, 119 species of spiders, and more.
During the summer months, you can hike the various trails in the park and watch the different animals that roam the area. Additionally, there is an option for an exciting rafting experience on the Enns River.
In winter, there are trails that can be done on snowshoes. When the park is covered in snow, the mountain landscape becomes even more special, and the animals in the reserve reveal their winter beauty.
Highway 146 crosses the park, providing easy access to the starting points of the various trails. Along the road, there are several parking lots and even train stations for those using public transport.
In the center of the park is a visitor center (Gesäuse Nationalpark Pavillon) where you can get information about the nature found in the park. In the western part, there is a children’s activity area, the local rafting company, and the starting point for the easy and experiential hiking trail called Lettmair Au (the trail is also accessible for wheelchairs).
For cycling enthusiasts, you can rent bikes in the park and ride on the well-maintained path that crosses it from east to west. There are also cycling routes deeper in the park, some of which are paved and comfortable, while others are suitable for skilled mountain bikers.
See some of the wonderful nature of the park:
Additional Essential Information for Visiting the Park
- Official Website
- Weather Webcams in the Park
- Address: Krumau 62, 8911 Admont
Map:
Other Attractions in the National Park Area
Not far from the national park is the large Salza Valley with several fun attractions. On the way to the valley, you can stop in the town of Gams bei Hieflau, near which a beautiful hiking trail begins inside a natural gorge called Nothklamm. This is a well-maintained and marked hiking trail with wooden bridges. Near the gorge, there is a small crystal cave called Kraushöhle.
From there, you can continue driving to the Palfau area, which also has a large and well-known natural gorge, as well as adventurous rafting and ATV tours. Or, visit the active Erzberg Mine.
