The Dachstein Glacier cable car will bring you easily into the unique, high mountain world of this UNESCO world natural and cultural heritage site. The imposing rock cliffs of the south face of the Dachstein in Ramsau contrast with the glaciers, corries and unique "Am Stein" high plateau in the north. From the mountain station (2700 m) numerous appealing excursions are possible. Here is a small selection:

Excursions starting and ending at the mountain station


1. Kleiner and Hoher Gjaidstein (2794 m)

A fabulous viewing point between the Schladminger and Hallstätter glaciers. A simple ridge climb – no problem for inexperienced climbers. (A head for heights and sure footing required).
Route: From the mountain station, head north (Route 615) to the Gjaidsteinsattel col. From here, head over the rocky outcrop (safety rope) to Kleiner Gjaidstein (2734 m). Time 45 – 60 mins. Follow the rocky ridge to get to the cross at the summit of Hoher Gjaidstein. 30 – 45 mins. To return, go back the way you came up.

2. Glacier hike to the Dachsteinwarte viewing point (2741 m)

This easy mountain walk takes you along a tended glacier route to the highest mountain hut in the Dachstein range (2741 m). Fabulous views over the south face of the Dachstein.
Route: From the mountain station, descend to the Schladminger Glacier, following the signs in a north-westerly direction. Go past the Dirndl Windrichter (a unique natural wonder). From there, ascend along the glacier path to the Dachsteinwarte (manned in summer and autumn). Walking time approx. 1 hour.



Hoher Dachstein (2996 m)

Take secured climbing routes to get to one of the highest points in the northern Alps.

This climb requires basic climbing skills, safety ropes and a good head for heights. The use of a local guide is recommended.
Route: From the mountain station to the Dachsteinwarte (See Tour 2). From here there are two options (walking time approx. 2 hours):

3. Classic north-east ascent via the Randkluft

Look out for glacier crevasses, and take care when crossing the Randkluft (a gap between the rock and the glacier).
Route: Head from the Dachsteinwarte in a north-westerly direction over the upper section of the Hallstätter Glacier. Steep ascent to the Randkluft. From here there is a secured rock ascent to the summit.

4. Ascent via the east shoulder

This ascent runs over the lower section of the eastern rock spur and provides an easy rock climb. Steel wire safety rope for the entire route.
Route: From the Dachsteinwarte to the furthest east point of the rock pillar, over this following the safety rope as far as the crossing (Mecklenburgerband) to the north ascent.
The stuff of fairy tales

Alpine Crossings

The crossings described below begin at their highest point and are mainly descents to points in the valley at the foot of the Dachstein mountains. These walks require good fitness, sureness of foot, food and drink and suitable equipment (mountain boots, jacket). Whole day walks.
Glacier hike

Route: From the mountain station, this walk takes you over the Schladminger Glacier (Route 674) to the Guttenberghaus (manned – 2148 m). Descend via Route 616 to Vordere Ramsau. This walk can also be done as a good value package deal, see Tip.
The Planai bus to the Dachstein experience

Every Thursday between 29th June and 14th September

6. Glacier hike

The Dachstein cable car opens early so that guests can get onto the Dachstein in good time. First enjoy the impressive image of the sun rising over the glacier, and then try the delicious buffet breakfast in the Panorama Restaurant.

7. Crossing to Obertraun

Route: Marvellous walk from the cable car mountain station (see Tour 1) to Hoher Gjaidstein and then on to the Taubenkogel, with fabulous views of the Schladminger and Hallstätter Glaciers (Route 615) to the Schilcherhaus on the Gjaidalm. From there to Obertraun.
Via the Simonyhütte to Hallstatt or Obertraun
The classic mountain hike!

On the descent, the route follows the trails of the mountain's pioneers. Change in height: 2200 metres!

Route: From the mountain station, follow Tour 2 as far as the Dirndl Windrichter. From here head north past the Eisstein. Descend the glacier to the Simonyhütte (2206 m). Over the col to the Wiesberghaus, Tiergartenhütte and finally down through the Echern Valley to the Hallstätter Lake (508 m). Or to Obertraun via the Schilcherhaus to the Gjaidalm (Route 650). From the Gjaidalm there are three ways to get to Obertraun: descend via Krippenbrunn (Route 615), via the Krippenstein (Routes 661, 662) or take the Krippenstein cable car. A full day walk with a 2200 metre change in height!