Around Schmuckenstein
through the woods to Mordaualm

The 8.8-kilometre circuit takes about two and a half hours of walking. With a longer stop at Mordaualm, allow four to five hours in total. It is graded moderate, with 313 metres of ascent and the same descent. Expect narrow woodland paths and several uphill stretches, including on the way back.

This is a good choice if you enjoy a few hours on foot through woodland rather than a big summit climb. Wear proper walking shoes; the paths can be slippery after rain.

Start at the Hirscheck chairlift car park. Across the road, follow the narrow lane called Am Gseng a short way uphill. At the yellow sign, turn right onto path 75, marked ‘Rund um den Schmuckenstein’.

The path crosses the meadow above the Schmuckenlift before entering the woods. Look back here for views south towards Watzmann and Hochkalter. The narrow trail then follows the ridge, with gaps in the trees opening onto the mountains. Much of the route is shaded, welcome on a warm day, but bring enough water.

You emerge from the woods above the open pastures at around 1,200 metres in the Lattengebirge. Three farming families work the Kaser, the local name for their alpine huts. Across the Ramsau valley, Watzmann and Hochkalter stand above the meadows.

For food, we recommend Gschoßkaser. Organic cheese is made from its own cows’ milk, with homemade cured meats, alpine butter and cakes also on the menu. The working season follows the arrival of cattle and the condition of the pastures, usually lasting until around mid-October. The 2026 summer season has ended; check opening before your visit on +49 8657 317.

On the alpine pasture, keep left towards Gsengschneid and Hochschwarzeck to complete the circuit. The path returns to woodland and includes some longer climbs, so leave a little energy for after lunch. Above the Schmuckenlift, the landscape opens again before you descend to the chairlift car park. You don’t need a lift ticket for this walk.

Park at the lower station of the Hochschwarzeck mountain lift, Schwarzecker Straße 80, Ramsau. Mordaualm itself is not a driving destination. Follow the local parking rules.

For public transport, bus 846 takes you towards Ramsau. Check your onward connection: service 845 to Hochschwarzeck is limited, currently running on school days Monday to Friday. The pre-booked WatzMobil service is another option, with a service fee even if you have a guest card. Plan the return journey before walking.

The circuit suits children who are used to almost nine kilometres and several climbs on narrow paths. It is unsuitable for a pushchair. The broader forestry track from Taubensee to Mordaualm is a different route. This woodland circuit is intended for snow-free conditions; for winter, choose a designated winter walking route instead.