Natural jewel Bärenschützklamm

The Bear Chasm

Rushing water, bizarre rock formations, rare plants and animals. The Bear Chasm is one of the longest gorges in Austria and leaves its visitors in awe: over 168 wooden bridges with more than 3,000 steps lead the way through the narrow gorge from Mixnitz up to "The Good Shepherd," covering a distance of 1,300 m while overcoming 350 meters in elevation. The first section of the trail was built in 1901, and in 1978 the Bear Chasm was declared a "Natural Monument."

The Bear Chasm is part of the Central Alpine Way 02 and a section of the most beautiful and exciting hike in the Graz Highlands, whose highlight is the Hochlantsch peak with its panoramic views. At 1,720 m, Hochlantsch is the highest elevation in the Graz Highlands. Those coming from the Bear Chasm to climb Hochlantsch should definitely make a detour to the wooden pilgrimage church of Schüsserlbrunn, which clings picturesque to the rock and can only be reached via steps. From Hochlantsch, the trail leads down to the Teichalm with the Teichalm Lake and the surrounding alpine pastures – a wonderfully gentle and expansive landscape, serving as a counterpoint to the Bear Chasm.

On the tour through the Bear Chasm, it's also worth taking a look at the walls: Many pretty little plants stretch their flowers towards us from the limestone rock faces. Early in the spring after the snow melts, the snow rose shows its white blooms. Later in spring and into summer, the sheath-vetch produces its delicate yellow butterfly flowers. The rare fine-leaved monkshood also develops its yellow flowers. The animal world is equally noteworthy and usually hard to overlook: At the upper and lower ends of the gorge, the stately chamois can often be observed. They are not shy at all and surprisingly allow us humans to approach quite closely. Additionally, two other horned animals show themselves: mouflons and chamois. In the air, peregrine falcons often circle above.

Dogs are not allowed in the gorge; we recommend the hike for children aged 7 and older.

To the hike

Take the opportunity and travel by public transport.

• Shared taxi East Styria stop number: BM3516 Mixnitz - Bear Chasm, Booking hotline +43 50 36 37 38 or www.oststeiermark.at/sam,
• Regional buses and trains at www.verbundlinie.at

"Bärli Express"
Shuttle to the starting point of the Bear Chasm

The Bärli Express brings visitors to the starting point of the hiking tour during the Bear Chasm season.
The shuttle operates from Thursday to Sunday every half hour:

• 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

ATTENTION: The Bärli Express will take a break from June 25 to July 1, 2026. Next ride resumes from July 2.

Fares:

• One-way fare: €3
• Round trip: €5

Tickets are available directly on site at the shuttle. Reservations are not possible.
From Monday to Wednesday, special trips can be booked for groups of 15 or more. Contact: +43 650 86 68 668

Frequently Asked Questions:

When is the Bear Chasm open?
> The Bear Chasm is typically open daily from May 1 to October 31. In case of heavy rain, storms, hail, or thunderstorms, temporary closures may occur for safety reasons.

How much is the entrance fee for the Bear Chasm?
> A fee of €10.00 is charged for adults, €8.00 for ÖAV members, and €6.00 for youths aged 6 to 16 for the maintenance of the gorge.
> Payment can be made in cash or by card.
> There are NO group rates.

How far is the ticket booth from the gorge entrance?
> From the parking lots in Mixnitz, it takes about 1.5 hours to reach the gorge entrance.
> From the premium parking lot at the Grassauer snack station, it takes only about an hour to the ticket booth.

Where can I park?
> In Mixnitz, there are three paid parking lots available, parking lots 1 and 2 are directly in Mixnitz. The premium parking lot offers 40 spaces and is located next to the Grassauer snack station.
> All parking lots only accept card payments.
> A full-day parking ticket costs €6.00 for parking lots 1 and 2, and €9.00 for the premium parking lot.

Can children and dogs access the Bear Chasm?
> Children are warmly welcomed in the Bear Chasm; however, please note that the hike is demanding and can be dangerous for smaller children in some places. It is recommended to hike with children from the age of 7.
> Responsibility lies with the parents or accompanying persons!
> Dogs are NOT allowed in the gorge.

How long does the hike take?
> Depending on which option you choose, the total duration of the hike can be between 4.5 and 9 hours.
> The walk through the gorge itself takes about one hour.
> Please inform yourself in advance about the weather conditions. Bring enough supplies and water. Check in advance for refreshment options along the way.