National Park
Hohe Tauern national park
A region as vulnerable and sensitive as the “Hohe Tauern” mountains must not be destroyed by major technical projects.
This was the resolution of some astute Carinthians who placed approximately 10,000 hectares of nature around Mallnitz under special protection of the national park. For the well-being and delight of the people and to preserve an impressive wonder of nature for them to enjoy in the future. Guided nature tours accompanied by specialists in the fields of botany, fauna, water, culture and geology provide a new understanding and feel from a different perspective. “Nature-oriented educational tourism” opens the eye for trifles and inanities around us and lets them resurge in a new dimension.
Website of the national park: https://www.nationalpark-hohetauern.at/
With respect to the national park, the Mallnitz residents came up with many neat ideas. Botanical excursions turn into a hike through an over-sized garden. The newly created “Seebachtal nature hike” along Lake Stappitz offers the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the natural characteristics of this particular region. Cultural heritage
The region in and around Mallnitz features small old mills, a 200 year old special type of farmhouse, the Venetian sawmill in the Dösen Valley and the Tauern house below the Hagener Hut, all of which are worth a visit.
Rock glacier trail
Rock glaciers are hidden natural jewels of Hohe Tauern national park.
The “Dösen Valley rock glacier trail” uncovers one of the mightiest rock glaciers of the whole Hohe Tauern area at the head of Dösen Valley. Aside from the rock glacier, Lake Dösen fed from the glacier’s outflow is especially impressive, it is the second largest mountain lake of Carinthia. The highly informative accompanying folder is essential for this hike.
Location: Mallnitz
Hiking time: approx. 2.5 h (to the rock glacier) from the starting point of the theme trail in Dösen Valley
Trail description:
From the parking lot near the hiking trail (trail no. E10), past the lovingly restored Venetian sawmill along the flat valley floor to the picturesque Konradlacke (1,616 m). A distinctive escarpment starts here, leading to the magnificent Lackenboden in several turns to beyond the tree line. Following the thunderous Dösen brook, the next escarpment is soon reached; however, it can be conquered quicker than expected, providing a breathtaking view of a spectacular cirque: the rocky spur of Säuleck (3,086 m) and the outline of the unpleasant Arthur von Schmid house (2,275 m, 3 h away from the parking lot) are mirrored in the crystal clear waters of Lake Dösen (2,270 m). The destination of the tour, the Dösen rock glacier can only truly be seen at second sight. It can be reached in half an hour from the refuge cabin. The ice debris flow impressively rolls toward the valley releasing the coldest water nature has to offer! The descent follows the ascending route. Tip: Overnight stay at Arthur von Schmid house and ascent to Säuleck, one of the “Seven Summits” of Hohe Tauern.
Best time:
Beginning of July to mid-September
Requirements:
Easy hike in high alpine terrain.
Suitable equipment (especially solid shoes) is required.
Literature:
Free folder “Dösen Valley rock glacier trail” (available in the folder box at the exit from the Dösen Valley theme trail)
National park hiking
Mallnitz is located at 1200 m above sea level in a high valley to the south of the alpine crest, nestled in the impressive mountains of Hohe Tauern national park. Approximately 10,000 hectares of nature around Mallnitz were placed under the special protection of the national park. Guided nature hikes lead by specialists in the fields of botany, fauna, water, culture and geology provide a new understanding – “seeing with other eyes” so to speak.
The village and surrounding area are especially interesting for hikers.
Depending on the taste, hikes on flat valley floors and gentle mountain pastures are possible – overall, more than 200 km of hiking trails are available.
For anyone aiming higher: seven “3000 m peaks” are located around Mallnitz. Well marked trails lead to staffed refuge cabins where a hearty farmer’s snack makes up for all the physical efforts. Cable cars facilitate the ascent to the world of cliffs, meadows as well as rare plants and animals.
Experience Nature on the Seebach Valley nature trail
From a natural historic point of view, the Seebach Valley nature trail is one of the most interesting loop trails in the Hohe Tauern national park region. It starts approximately 300 m north east of Lake Stappitz and leads across the wild romantic Seebach Valley to the so-called Trombach waterfalls, a sequence of water falls of unparalleled beauty. A number of natural wonders await the hikers, including trees with stilt roots, praying forest, Ice Cavity and much more.
Difference in elevation / degree of difficulty:
130 m
Map:
yes (Seebach Valley nature guide)
Characteristics / route / distance:
From the Ankogel railway parking lot past the national park information booth which is the starting point for the hiking trail (follow the signs from there) – 6 km
Time / duration:
2 – 2 1/2 hours
Hint:
Comfortable trail for all ages – possibility to stop for a bite to eat at Schwußner cabin
Capricorns, chamois, bearded vultures and golden eagles
Accompanying national park wardens on the track of capricorns, chamois, bearded vultures and golden eagles! You don’t necessarily have to go on a safari to encounter wildlife up close: A number of species are native to the Hohe Tauern national park which have long been extinct in other areas – and the national park wardens will accompany you to the best lookouts.