Gesäuse National Park

Wild water. Steep cliffs.

Steep, wild, unique - the Gesäuse not only trumps with breathtaking views and raging streams, but also flora and fauna offer uniqueness in many respects. Like the spikes of a crown, the peaks of the Hochtor chain tower above this wonder of nature, the Gesäuse. There are around 200 endemics here, plants and insects that exist exclusively in this microcosm. A wonder of nature that should be marveled at and protected in equal measure, in October 2002 the Gesäuse was declared a national park.

Nature conservation is a top priority throughout the national park – yet you can still explore the stunning landscape at your own pace along marked trails. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, cycling or rafting, nature takes centre stage here. And you’re a most welcome guest!

Website Nationalpark Gesäuse

Discover the National Park

National park Gesäuse

Between Admont and Hieflau, where the Enns River runs wild, the only Styrian national park - the Gesäuse - covers an area of about 12,000 hectares. We have summarized our absolute highlights around the national park for you here. What is still missing in this work of art is you.

Experience center Weidendom

In the middle of the national park there is a true oasis in the middle of the wilderness: the Willow Dome (Weidendom) has taken up residence there. The living construction in the national park is beautiful to look at and the offer in the adventure center has it all.

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National park exhibition

A national park would only be half as good if it did not have visitor centers or museums. That is why there is also the National Park Pavilion in the heart of Gstatterboden, with the current exhibition about the Planspitze.

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National park photo school

It is the untouched nature that attracts photographers from all over the world to the realms of the Gesäuse National Park. But what is the best way to get a capercaillie in front of the lens during courtship? This is where the Nationalpark Photo School can help.

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Groups & schools

For students of all ages, the national park offers a varied program and for groups a varied excursion destination.

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A paradise for flora and fauna

In the Gesäuse National Park, nature is left to its own devices; resources such as the forest are not exploited. As a result, a unique diversity of species survives here and continues to evolve freely.

There are currently around 200 endemic species – that is, animal and plant species that exist only in this microcosm. This makes the Gesäuse THE hotspot for endemic species in Austria! Join the national park rangers as you set off in search of the area’s flora and fauna. Pssst… if you’re really lucky, you might even spot a lynx on the prowl!

Gesäuse national park

At a glance with all the details

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Wild water, steep rock

Roaring and rushing, the Enns makes its way through the steep rock faces - Gesäuse, the name says it all. A multitude of rare plants and insects cavort here, making the Gesäuse a very special place and Austria's youngest national park. Whether you get to know this natural jewel via one of the well-signposted hiking trails or one of the educational offers of the national park, the richness of the Gesäuse is worth every excursion - a place to which you want to return again and again.

Activities in the National Park

A national park is where people and the wilderness meet.

In the Gesäuse National Park, nature conservation and sporting activities have always gone hand in hand. There are clear rules to ensure that people, animals and the plant world can coexist harmoniously. Whether it’s exciting themed trails for the whole family, (long-distance) hikes, cycle routes, rafting on the River Enns or high-alpine climbing tours: here you can perfectly combine enjoying nature with physical activity!

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The Gesaeuse National Park is the youngest and third largest national park in Austria

Visitor Management Plan

Visitor Centres

Gesäuse National Park

Quick & Short

12,000 hectares or 0.7% of the area of the province of Styria are national park and belong to the most beautiful things Styria has to offer. Along the untamed waters of the Enns River is one of the last breeding grounds for sandpipers. The wild forests are left to their own devices and endemic rarities such as the ornamental feathered carnation grow on the fearsome rock giants.

In the Gesäuse National Park, resources such as the forest are not exploited and nature is left to its own devices. Therefore, a special biodiversity survives here and develops freely. Such landscapes have become rare and are therefore particularly valuable.

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Eat & sleep

They are rustic and outspoken, the Gesäuse inns. And "regional" is not a code word in the Gesäuse, but a duty. In their backpacks they have a selection of Styrian classics to delight the palate. The traditional preparation awakens a thousand and one memories and, on balance, simply makes you blissful.

And restful sleep is possible in the Gesäuse anyway. Hotels, guesthouses, huts and campsites are scattered all over the Gesäuse. Everyone is sure to find a comfortable bed for the night. That's a promise!

Hesshütte

Haindlkarhütte

Nationalpark Gesäuse Lodge

Ennstalerhütte

Campingplatz "Forstgarten"

A national park is where people and the wilderness meet.
– Herbert Wölger, National Park Director

Special experiences and insights in the Gesäuse National Park:

FAQ

Interesting facts about the Gesäuse National Park

Are you curious? Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Gesäuse National Park!

No, the Gesäuse National Park is free of charge and open to everyone.

A visit to the Gesäuse National Park is impressive at any time of year – depending on what you’re looking for.

Spring (April–June): Snowmelt, the mighty River Enns, the first blossoms, the ideal time for nature watching
Summer (July–September): Peak season for hiking, mountaineering, ranger programmes & photography courses
Autumn (October): Clear views, vibrant colours, quiet trails
Winter (December–March): Tranquillity, winter walks & snowshoe tours in selected areas

The months of June to October are particularly well suited for classic hikes.

Unfortunately not, as the animals live freely in the wild within the national park. So you’ll need a bit of luck to spot one. Our rangers will explain how and when you’re most likely to see wildlife and will be happy to take you on a wildlife spotter’s tour.

The Gesäuse National Park is home to golden eagles, chamois, red deer, otters, capercaillies and grouse, bats, common sandpipers, dippers and grey wagtails, grayling, brown trout and bullhead, fire salamanders and Alpine newts, as well as lynx.

Everyone is welcome! A visit to the National Park is particularly suitable for:

Families: nature trails, ranger programmes, hands-on nature experiences
Sports enthusiasts: From hiking and mountaineering to cycling, from leisurely to challenging alpine routes
Nature and knowledge seekers: Guided tours, exhibitions, research, courses
People with reduced mobility: Accessible facilities around Admont and the Weidendom

Yes! There’s the National Park Pavilion in Gstatterboden, which has an exhibition and a café, as well as the Weidendom visitor centre near Johnsbach.

Yes, dogs are allowed in the Gesäuse National Park, but they must always be kept on a lead!

Wild camping is prohibited in the Gesäuse National Park. However, there is the Forstgarten campsite in Gstatterboden, which offers space for around 100 people on the banks of the Enns and boasts particularly idyllic views.

No, the Styrian Eisenwurzen Nature and Geopark is a separate protected area within the Gesäuse adventure region. You can find out more here: https://eisenwurzen.com/

Your visit to the Gesäuse National Park

Holiday planning made easy

Here you’ll find a clear summary of all the information you need about your stay in the Gesäuse National Park. If you have any questions, we at the Gesäuse Tourist Board will be happy to help!