The best hiking routes in Naturpark Sölktäler

Naturpark Sölktäler is characterized by its steep, narrow alpine valleys, the Großsölktal and Kleinsölktal, which carve through the Niedere Tauern range. Unlike the highly developed ski resorts nearby, this area lacks cable cars and large-scale tourism infrastructure. Walkers will find a landscape shaped by traditional alpine farming, where high-altitude pastures, known as Almen, sit below rugged gneiss and granite peaks. The valley floors are dominated by rushing mountain torrents, while the higher slopes are covered in dense larch and spruce forests.

Underfoot, the terrain transitions from gravel forestry roads in the lower valleys to narrow, root-choked dirt tracks and rocky paths as you ascend toward the mountain passes. Water is a constant presence on these trails, with numerous tarns, marshes, and waterfalls fed by snowmelt. In June, the high meadows are marked by the pink blooms of alpine roses, while late autumn brings golden larch needles to the forest paths.

This is a landscape for those who prefer self-reliance and quiet, steady climbing over assisted ascents. The trails require careful footing on loose scree and wet grass, particularly near the high-altitude lakes like the Schwarzensee. While the main valley trailheads can see moderate day-tripper traffic, the higher crossings into neighboring valleys remain demanding and relatively quiet.