Winter hike Eisenerz - the Erzberg in view

We start at the overview board at Dr.-Theodor-Körner-Platz in Eisenerz (1) and walk along the thoroughfare for approx. 300 m to the Liebfrauenkirche. Immediately after the archway at the church, we turn right into Lindmoserstraße - GH “Zur blauen Kugel” - and continue straight ahead. After crossing the Erzbach stream, we see the red-white-red markings. Shortly afterwards, the start of the Jubiläumssteig Hohenegg begins, which leads in serpentines to the Schichtturm (built in 1581). Behind the Schichtturm (2), 758 m, we follow the yellow signposts and follow trail 601 in the direction of Hohenegg. A forest path climbs slightly uphill until we reach the road and follow it uphill to the left. It is a leisurely walk, with impressive views of the Eisenerzer Ramsau valley and the towering peaks behind. 
The open spaces soon reveal the striking, pyramid-like silhouette of the Erzberg from here. The road ends at the few houses at Hohenegg (3), 961 m. Here we continue slightly uphill towards Donnersalpe, first along the fence and then across the meadow to the wooden hut (4), 1057 m, where we turn back. During a break, we enjoy the view of the Erzberg and the Eisenerzer Reichenstein with the Reichensteiner Hütte. The way back leads via the ascent route, whereby we no longer go to the Schichtturm, but follow the access road downhill, which leads to the center of Eisenerz.

Weather, snow and avalanche conditions are important criteria when choosing a winter hike or snowshoe tour. Basically, the choice of tour depends on your own experience and basic physical condition. Factors such as the weather, avalanche report and equipment must be clarified in advance. Even if you have prepared yourself perfectly, the weather and snow conditions and your physical condition during the hike itself must also be taken into account. There is therefore an important basic rule: please turn back if the hike becomes too strenuous or if the external conditions require it.

Spikes have become an indispensable winter hiking accessory. These “snow chains” for mountain boots have become increasingly popular in recent winters and are a standard item in winter hiking rucksacks. 

Walking times: The indicated walking time is to be understood as a guideline, as it depends on the snow conditions, the terrain and the availability of a track. Individual fitness and stamina during strenuous track work also play an important role. Sometimes the duration of the tour can change considerably due to large amounts of fresh snow, broken snow, soft slush snow, etc.

Alpine emergency call: 

Emergency number for mountain rescue: 140

EU emergency number: 112

Weather service​: www.zamg.ac.at

Direct link to mountain weather Styria: https://www.zamg.ac.at/cms/en/weather

• Spikes 
• Telescopic poles with a snow plate
• Waterproof mountain boots or lined winter mountain boots
• Backpack
• Gloves: waterproof and warm
• Headgear
• Gaiters: If there are no closable leg cuffs on the pants.
• Pants: Ski pants are not recommended as they are often too warm, but we need water-repellent and warm pants.
• Warm outerwear: Onion layer system, T-shirt, sweater, jacket and winter jacket with hood.
• Sunglasses: Very important, as snow reflects up to 95% of the light.
• Creams: Protective measures for the skin are important against both the sun and the cold.
• Headlamp: In winter it gets dark early, especially in the forest it can often be very dark when dusk begins.
• Thermos flask: On cooler days, a warming drink is pleasant.
• Snack
• First aid kit

Other important items of equipment:

• Cell phone
• Tour description
• Map: For an overview, a 1:50,000 scale map of the respective region and a detailed map of the hike
• GPS device

To extend the hike, the Donnersalpe is a worthwhile destination, whereby the tour is extended by approx. 3.2 km and 460 m (only possible with snowshoes).

Information on the history of the Erzberg at: www.vaerzberg.at/geschichte/

Eisenerz is easily accessible by train and bus.

The exact timetable and general information about public transport in the region: www.verbundlinie.at und ÖBB Fahrplanauskunft

Refreshment stops in Eisenerz:

Gasthaus Bräustüberl, Tel.: +43 3848 2335, 8790 Eisenerz, Flutergasse 5, www.dorfwirt.at

Gasthaus Volkskeller, Tel.: +43 664 187 3045, 8790 Eisenerz, Vordernbergerstraße 33, www.volkskeller-eisenerz.sta.io

Eisenerzer Hof, Tel.: +43 3848 25510, 8790 Eisenerz, Hieflauer Straße 17, www.eisenerzerhof.at

Gaststätte Franz August, Tel.: +43 664 375 2801, 8790 Eisenerz, Dr.-Karl-Renner-Straße 9,

Cafe Barbarastubn, Tel.: +43 676 541 5606, 8790 Eisenerz, Bergmannplatz 2, www.barbarastubn.sta.io

Freytag & Berndt  WK 041 Hochschwab, Veitschalpe, Eisenerz, Bruck an der Mur, Wanderkarte 1 : 50.000

Regional leisure map Erzberg Leoben (available at the tourist office and in the inns)