Top 20 Mountain Passes around Bezirk Zell am See
Best mountain passes around Bezirk Zell am See are found within the Austrian Alps, a region characterized by its high-alpine landscapes and historical routes. This area connects various valleys and offers diverse terrain, from challenging ascents to scenic drives. The passes often serve as gateways to protected natural areas, including parts of the Hohe Tauern National Park. This region provides access to significant elevations and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Best mountain passes around Bezirk Zell am See
- The most popular mountain passes is Edelweissspitze Summit and Edelweiss Hut, a summit that offers a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains on the Grossglockner. This location provides a great mountain panorama, especially at sunrise, and is accessible via a cobblestone road.
- Another must-see spot is Hochtor Pass (Großglockner High Alpine Road), a mountain pass. Visitors can expect to reach the highest point on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, offering magnificent views of the Grossglockner massif and a tunnel passage.
- Visitors also love Grossglockner High Alpine Road, a mountain pass and cycle way. This road is known for its numerous hairpin turns and scenic vistas, making it a popular destination for motorists, motorcyclists, and cyclists.
- Bezirk Zell am See is known for scenic drives, challenging ascents, and historical routes. The region offers a variety of mountain passes to see and explore, from high-alpine roads to passes connecting major valleys.
- The mountain passes around Bezirk Zell am See are appreciated by the komoot community. More than 470 upvotes and over 450 photos highlight the appeal of these routes and viewpoints.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Sonntagshorn Summit
Highlight • Summit
The ascent from the German side is much more demanding and begins in Laubau. From there the path leads first to the Schwarzachenalm and then through the very beautiful but also steep Hintere Kraxenbachtal and then very steeply through the scree field below the summit up to the ridge.
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Edelweissspitze Summit and Edelweiss Hut
Highlight • Summit
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Großer Hundstod
Highlight • Summit
The Große Hundstod is with 2593m the main summit of the Steinerne Meer and lies on the German-Austrian border. From the top you have on beautiful days an impressive panoramic view.
According to the Watzmannsage, a cruel king ruled the area and one day he was cursed and turned to stone. His dogs are said to have crashed during the big dog death.
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Hirschbichl Inn
Highlight • Restaurant
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Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Salzachjoch snack station
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Hochtor (2,504 m)
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Oberes Nassfeld (2,273 m)
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Hirschbichl Border Crossing
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Hirschbichl Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Tips from the Community
Since when does the Sonntagshorn belong to the Mangfall Mountains? You must have had one beer too many.
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Long and, at least in good weather, busy, but the view is breathtaking!
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The famous High Alpine Road winds its way up to the Fuscher Törl Höhe mountain pass at an elevation of 2,428 meters. The road connects the states of Salzburg and Carinthia and is 48 kilometers long. The High Alpine Road has a total of 36 hairpin bends, but luckily, you don't have to take all of them on your way up. ;)
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Warning: Extremely steep. I should have read the comments here. It's almost impossible to ride up here on a road bike from the German side when the ground is wet. Extremely beautiful, but even as a climb fan, I probably won't be back.
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Hirschbichl is a particular challenge with a racing bike, around 600m with an average gradient of 26%! Push if necessary, because you will be treated to a fabulous idyll in the Hirschbichl National Park.
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What a climb you have to conquer first. When you reach the top of the pass, the joy is all the greater.
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The Hirschbichl pass lies at an altitude of 1,183 meters. From Weißbach, you have to climb around 500 meters in altitude. Anyone who makes it here without a motor can be truly proud.
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You absolutely have to do it
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most scenic mountain passes in Bezirk Zell am See?
The region offers several highly scenic mountain passes. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is renowned for its breathtaking panoramas of the Grossglockner, Austria's highest mountain, and the Pasterze Glacier. Along this road, the Edelweissspitze Summit and Edelweiss Hut provides a fantastic 360-degree view, especially at sunrise. Another highlight is the Hochtor Pass, the highest point on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, offering magnificent views of the Grossglockner massif.
When is the best time to visit the mountain passes in Bezirk Zell am See?
The main mountain passes, such as the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, are typically open from early May to late October. This period offers the best weather for driving, cycling, and hiking, allowing full access to viewpoints and facilities. For winter sports, the areas around Gerlos Pass and Thurn Pass are popular from December to April.
Are there family-friendly options among the mountain passes?
Yes, several passes offer family-friendly activities. The Gerlos Pass area is particularly suitable, with the nearby Krimml Waterfalls and the interactive Krimml Worlds of Water, which includes an outdoor aqua playground. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road also features play areas and educational trails along its route, making it enjoyable for families.
What historical significance do these mountain passes hold?
Many passes in the region have a rich history. The Hochtor Pass on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, for instance, was used as a trade route by Celts and Romans over 3,500 years ago. Thurn Pass also has historical roots, having been important for salt trade and copper mining as far back as the Stone and Bronze Ages.
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I expect to see?
The mountain passes traverse diverse ecosystems, particularly within the Hohe Tauern National Park. Along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, you can observe four distinct vegetation zones and potentially spot rare animals like ibex, golden eagles, marmots, and Alpine bumblebees. The Thurn Pass area is known for its unique raised bogs, which are protected natural monuments.
Are there facilities like cafes or restaurants available on the passes?
Yes, you'll find various facilities. Along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, there are numerous inns, traditional Alpine lodges, and visitor centers. The Edelweissspitze Summit and Edelweiss Hut offers dining options at a high altitude. The Salzachjoch snack station is another friendly spot for a break with good food.
What outdoor activities can I do near these mountain passes?
The region around Bezirk Zell am See offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find extensive MTB Trails, including challenging routes like the 'Steinbergrunde Sculpture Trail' or 'LE 12 - Iron Hand Extreme'. For Road Cycling, there are difficult routes such as 'On the Grossglockner High Alpine Road' and the 'Ironman 70.3 - World Championship course'. Additionally, numerous Running Trails are available, from moderate loops around Zell am See lake to challenging sky marathons. You can explore more options on the respective guide pages for MTB Trails, Road Cycling Routes, and Running Trails.
Are there specific hiking trails or viewpoints recommended for stunning views?
Absolutely. The Edelweissspitze Summit is highly recommended for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Hochtor Pass also provides magnificent vistas of the Grossglockner massif. The Gerlos Pass offers views of the Krimml Waterfalls, Europe's highest, from various parking areas. The Thurn Pass provides panoramic views of the Pinzgau region and the Hohe Tauern mountains, including the Grossglockner on clear days.
What are the options for winter activities around the mountain passes?
In winter, the areas around Gerlos Pass and Thurn Pass transform into popular ski destinations. The Gerlos Pass provides access to the Zillertal Arena, one of Austria's most visited ski areas. Thurn Pass is an integral part of the Kitzbühel ski paradise, offering extensive pistes and modern lift systems, along with options for winter hiking and snowshoeing.
Is public transport available to reach these mountain passes?
While specific public transport details for each pass can vary, many areas within Bezirk Zell am See are generally accessible. However, for the high alpine roads like the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, personal vehicles, motorcycles, or bicycles are the primary means of access. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific routes and seasonal availability.
What makes the Grossglockner High Alpine Road a unique experience?
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is considered Austria's most beautiful panoramic road. It's a masterpiece of mountain road engineering, featuring 36 hairpin bends over 48 km, offering a thrilling driving experience. It traverses the Hohe Tauern National Park, providing access to stunning viewpoints, diverse biodiversity, and numerous facilities, making it a popular destination for motorists, motorcyclists, and cyclists alike.
Most popular routes around Bezirk Zell am See
Most popular attractions around Bezirk Zell am See
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