Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Mürz River Trail
Road cycling
4.9
(36)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
The Mürz River Trail, often known as the Mürztal Cycle Path R5, is a picturesque route winding through the Mürz Valley in Styria, Austria. This scenic trail largely follows the course of the Mürz River, a significant tributary that eventually joins the Mur River in Bruck an der Mur. Spanning approximately 68.4 kilometers, the trail offers a delightful journey through the heart of the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park, showcasing the region's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Visitors consistently praise the trail for its serene atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. Many cyclists enjoy the beautiful sections that run alongside the Mürz River, often passing through impressive ravines and lush landscapes. The gentle, mostly downhill gradient makes it a particularly appealing option for families and those seeking a relaxed cycling experience, allowing everyone to soak in the views without strenuous effort.
Before embarking on the Mürz River Trail, it's helpful to know that the route is well-marked, ensuring easy navigation. Its predominantly flat or gently sloping terrain makes it suitable for a wide range of abilities, from casual cyclists to families with children. While primarily a cycling path, the trail's accessibility and scenic beauty also make it enjoyable for walkers and runners in many sections. Public transport options, including the Southern Railway, run parallel to parts of the river, offering convenient access points along the route.
The best time to visit the Mürz River Trail is typically from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. During these months, the trail provides ample opportunities for cycling, walking, and enjoying the riverside environment. The Mürz River itself is popular for angling and kayaking, adding to the recreational activities available. The trail's family-friendly nature means it's an excellent choice for a day out with kids, with plenty of spots for refreshing breaks.
One of the standout features of the Mürz River Trail is the variety of experiences it offers. Cyclists often highlight the impressive Klamm Totes Weib gorge as a particularly memorable section, with its dramatic rock faces and the rushing river below. The journey also connects charming towns like Neuberg an der Mürz, home to the historic Neuberg Abbey, and Mürzzuschlag, which boasts several museums. The blend of natural beauty and cultural landmarks ensures a rich and engaging experience for all.
For those looking to explore the Mürz River Trail, komoot offers a variety of routes and planning tools to help you customize your adventure. Whether you're interested in a leisurely cycle, a scenic walk, or discovering the many sights along Mürz River Trail, you can find detailed maps and community-contributed tours. From Mürzsteg to Bruck an der Mur, the Mürztal Cycle Path R5 provides an unforgettable journey through Styria's captivating landscapes and historical towns.
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Naturpark Mürzer Oberland
Tips
May 24, 2026
Gravel riding
August 10, 2020
Road cycling
•
September 28, 2020
Road cycling
•
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 4 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Mürz River Trail
202
riders
102km
05:18
1,700m
1,700m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.8
(6)
133
riders
151km
07:32
2,360m
2,360m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.8
(5)
132
riders
117km
05:57
1,910m
1,910m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 7.02 km
Uphill 0 m
Downhill 40 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 11 June
9°C
3°C
38 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular or scenic sections of the Mürz River Trail?
While the entire 68.4 km Mürztal Cycle Path R5 offers beautiful scenery, visitors frequently highlight the section through the Klamm Totes Weib gorge for its dramatic rock faces and the rushing river. Another popular stretch is along the Mürz River itself, particularly where it runs through ravines, offering a serene and picturesque experience. The trail also connects several charming towns, each with unique cultural and historical sites, making the journey between them enjoyable.
What is the overall difficulty and elevation profile of the Mürz River Trail?
The Mürz River Trail, primarily known as the Mürztal Cycle Path R5, is characterized by its gentle, mostly downhill slope. This makes it highly suitable for families and less experienced cyclists. While specific elevation data isn't provided, its reputation as a relaxed cycling route indicates minimal strenuous climbs, allowing for an enjoyable journey through the Mürz Valley.
Are there any significant landmarks or points of interest along the Mürz River Trail?
Yes, the trail is rich in both natural and cultural landmarks. Notable natural features include the impressive Klamm Totes Weib gorge and the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park. Cultural highlights along the route include Neuberg Abbey and the Kaiserhof Glass Manufactory in Neuberg an der Mürz, the SÜDBAHN Museum, Brahms Museum, and WinterSportMuseum in Mürzzuschlag, and Oberkapfenberg Castle in Kapfenberg. The historic old town of Bruck an der Mur, where the Mürz meets the Mur, is also a significant point of interest.
What are the parking options and public transport access points for the Mürz River Trail?
Parking is available in the towns along the trail, such as Mürzsteg, Neuberg an der Mürz, Mürzzuschlag, Krieglach, Kindberg, Kapfenberg, and Bruck an der Mur. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly. For public transport, the Southern Railway runs parallel to parts of the Mürz River, offering convenient access points and allowing cyclists to easily start or end their journey at various towns along the route.
Is the Mürz River Trail suitable for a winter visit or winter hiking?
While the trail is primarily recommended from spring through autumn for cycling and general outdoor activities due to mild weather and vibrant scenery, some sections might be accessible for winter hiking or walking, depending on snow conditions. However, specific winter maintenance or suitability for the entire 68.4 km route is not guaranteed. For dedicated winter sports, Mürzzuschlag is known for its WinterSportMuseum, suggesting nearby winter activity options, but the trail itself might be less ideal for cycling in snowy or icy conditions.
Is the Mürz River Trail family-friendly and suitable for children?
Absolutely. The Mürz River Trail is highly regarded as a family-friendly route. Its gentle, mostly downhill gradient makes it ideal for children and less experienced cyclists. There are also recreational lakes in Neuberg and Krieglach, and plenty of spots along the river for refreshing breaks, making it a perfect choice for a day out with kids.
Is the Mürz River Trail dog-friendly?
Generally, trails in Austria are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Given the Mürz River Trail's nature as a cycle path through natural landscapes and towns, it is likely suitable for dogs. However, always check local regulations in specific towns or nature park areas you pass through, and ensure your dog is comfortable with cyclists and other trail users.
Are there cafes, restaurants, or accommodation options along the Mürz River Trail?
Yes, the Mürz River Trail connects numerous towns and villages, including Neuberg an der Mürz, Mürzzuschlag, Krieglach, Kindberg, Kapfenberg, and Bruck an der Mur. These towns offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options, ranging from guesthouses to hotels, making it easy to plan breaks, meals, or overnight stays during your journey.
What kind of wildlife can be seen along the Mürz River Trail?
As the trail winds through the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park and along the Mürz River, visitors might encounter various forms of local wildlife. This includes common forest and riverine species such as birds, small mammals, and fish in the river. The diverse natural landscapes, from meadows to wooded areas, provide habitats for a range of flora and fauna typical of the Styrian region.
Can the Mürz River Trail be combined with other cycling routes for a longer adventure?
Yes, the Mürztal Cycle Path R5 can be seamlessly combined with other routes. From Bruck an der Mur, where the Mürz River joins the Mur, you can connect to the longer Mur Cycle Path (Murradweg R2). This allows for extended cycling adventures through Styria and beyond, offering even more diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.
Are there any permits required to use the Mürz River Trail?
No specific permits are generally required to use the Mürz River Trail (Mürztal Cycle Path R5) for cycling or walking. It is a public recreational path. However, if you plan on activities like angling in the Mürz River, you would need to obtain the appropriate fishing permits or licenses from local authorities or fishing associations.