On Proles and Königskogel in the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park

We start in Frein an der Mürz and follow the Freingraben in a westerly direction until the path splits in ‘Gschwandt’. There we keep left and, at the next fork in the path, left again to the forest clearing ‘im Taschl’.

Now follow the markings in a southerly direction and either keep sharp left in the Krautgarten area to the Proles summit or continue straight on to the Kleiner and Großer Königskogel. A culinary rest would now be possible with a short diversions via the Königs- and Dürriegelalm.

Return along the ascent route.

Most of the hiking and mountain tours in the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park are in alpine terrain. A good level of fitness, surefootedness and a head for heights are recommended, especially for longer hiking and mountain tours. On the high plateaus of the Rax, Schneealm and Veitsch, orientation can be difficult in fog or bad weather. Always be aware of the risk of avalanches in winter!

Mountain rescue emergency number: 140, rescue centres in Neuberg an der Mürz and Mürzzuschlag.

Packing your rucksack properly makes things much easier: 

Pack heavy items first. The drinking bottle (ideal: 1 litre or more) should always be within easy reach. All items that are needed frequently, such as sunglasses, camera, mobile phone or hiking map, should be on top. 

Emergency equipment including blister plasters should be in every rucksack and it is always advisable to dress according to the ‘onion system’! Never forget rain protection on alpine tours!

The ‘Tote Weib’, a waterfall (natural monument) not far from the starting point, is a real highlight of the region. The cosy Freinerhof (with overnight accommodation and its own wellness area) is not far from the starting point of the hike.

Nature Park Taxi in the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park: Tel.: +43 3857 20170, www.naturparktaxi.at 

ÖBB www.oebb.at or Verbundlinie Steiermark www.busbahnbim.at. 

With the BusBahnBim app from Verbundlinie, timetable information has never been easier: all bus, train and tram connections in Austria can be called up by entering locations and/or addresses, stops or important points. The app is available as a free app for smartphones (Android, iOS) - on Google Play and in the App Store.

Mürzer Oberland Nature Park Office, Tel. +43 3857 8321, www.muerzeroberland.at , open Mon. - Fri. from 8.00 - 12.00

Hochsteiermark Tourist Office, Tel.: +43 3862 55020, www.steiermark.com/hochsteiermark

Mountain, hiking and nature park guides: Information at the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park Office, Tel.: +43 3857 8321