Over the Freinsattel to the Hohe Student in the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park

From Frein an der Mürz, a wide forest path initially runs flat along the Freiner Bach until we reach the junction in Gschwandt (992m above sea level). Here, our path turns right (from this point, the route continues on foot for mountain bikers as well), and, passing a hunting lodge, we walk along a wide path until we reach Freinsattel.

Soon, the wide path turns into a trail, and we hike along it in a southwest direction over alpine meadows until we reach Studentalm.

Now, there are only a few more meters of elevation to the north to reach the scenic summit (with a small summit cross).

The return is via the same ascent route – or, alternatively, though unmarked, you can go via Schöneben and the Brunntal.

Most hiking and mountain tours in the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park are in alpine terrain. Specifically, for longer hikes and mountain tours, good physical fitness, sure-footedness, and a fear of heights are recommended. On the high plateaus of Rax, Schneealm, and Veitsch, orientation can be difficult in foggy or bad weather. In winter, always be aware of avalanche danger!

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

Packing your backpack properly makes everything easier:

Pack the heavy items first. The water bottle (ideal: 1 liter or more) should always be easily accessible. Items that are often needed, such as sunglasses, camera, phone, or hiking map, should go on top.

An emergency kit, including blister plasters, should be in every backpack, and dressing in layers (the "onion system") is always recommended! Never forget rain protection for alpine tours!

In winter, for ski tours and snowshoe hikes, appropriate safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, avalanche shovel, and probe) is mandatory! Always check the avalanche report before your tour (www.lawine-steiermark.at).

A visit to the natural gem "Waterfall to the Dead Woman" near Frein an der Mürz.

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

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

With the BusBahnBim App by Verbundlinie, schedule information has never been easier: All connections with buses, trains, and trams in Austria can be queried by entering locations and/or addresses, stops, or key points. The app is available as a free download for smartphones (Android, iOS) – on Google Play and the App Store.

Nature Park Office Mürzer Oberland
Tel. +43 3857 8321, www.muerzeroberland.at, open Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 12:00 

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

Mountain, Hiking, and Nature Park Guides: Information available at the Nature Park Office Mürzer Oberland, Tel.: +43 3857 8321.