Leisurely hike to Lake Palfnersee on Graukogel

Nestled within the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park and surrounded by rugged rocky terrain, Lake Palfnersee conveys an extraordinary sense of tranquility. Nature lovers can explore this picturesque natural gem by embarking on a leisurely hike starting at the Graukogelbahn mountain station. The soothing scent of Swiss stone pine makes this hiking experience even more special, adding a healing touch to your outdoor adventures.

Palfnersee Graukogel – Basic info

  • Starts at: Graukogelbahn mountain station
  • Ends at: Graukogelbahn mountain station or middle station (optional)
  • Duration: 2.5 h
  • Distance: 9 km
  • Elevation gain: 240 m
Dieses Bild zeigt ein Tor aus Holz und ein Schild mit der Aufschrift "Zirbenweg"
Dieses Bild zeigt ein Paar, dass am Graukogel wandert und in die Ferne sieht
Dieses Bild zeigt ein Paar, dass sich an einem kleinen See am Graukogel erfrischt

Palfnersee Graukogel – Route description

The hike starts with a scenic ride on the Graukogelbahn, which takes you to its mountain station. The trail initially follows the signposted Zirbenweg trail. From there, you’ll follow the route leading to Lake Palfnersee. As you continue, the trail gently ascends through Gastein’s Alpine nature with some sections requiring surefootedness. Once you reach Lake Palfnersee, you’ll be treated to a true feast for your eyes: An enchanting mountain lake lies before you, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. To return, you take the same path that led to this natural gem. You can then take the Graukogelbahn for the last leg of your journey back down into the valley.

Mountain magic and culinary delights

Taking a break and having a delightful meal at a cozy alpine hut is an absolute must while on a hike. On the route to Lake Palfnersee on Graukogel, you’ll find tasty regional delicacies waiting for you at both Graukogelhütte by the mountain station and Graukogelalm by the middle station.

Ticket highlights for your hiking excursions

Ascent & descent
Ascent & descent
Hiking in higher altitudes in summer
Almorama Card & Family Bonus
Almorama Card & Family Bonus
Take the cable cars and lifts for up to 13 days
Season tickets
Season tickets
Make the most of summer
Hiking area ticket
Hiking area ticket
Ride from summit to summit
important news 2
  • The season pass pre-sale has started. With the Autumn Bonus, the winter season pass can already be used from October 11.
  • ❗️Important Information : Due to maintenance work, the Schlossalmbahn will be out of service on selected days. The Stubnerkogel lifts remain open.
important news
The season pass pre-sale has started. With the Autumn Bonus, the winter season pass can already be used from October 11.

Tickets and season passes can be booked online HERE.

❗️Important Information : Due to maintenance work, the Schlossalmbahn will be out of service on selected days. The Stubnerkogel lifts remain open.

The Schlossalmbahn will be closed on the following dates due to maintenance work:

  • September 29 – October 1
  • October 6–8

The Stubnerkogel lifts remain open. On all other days, the Schlossalmbahn operates as scheduled.