Hike into the World Heritage Site – April 19, 2026

The World Heritage Management of the UNESCO Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape, together with experts, will lead a hike along the “Paths of Salt.” Participation is free and open to everyone.

This hike allows both locals and visitors to understand the historic salt routes—from the mountains to its uses. Experts from the Salzkammergut World Heritage, historians, and craftsmen will explain along the route how salt was transported in the past and the skills involved.

Meeting point with parking: Steegwirt in Steeg on Lake Hallstatt.

The hike begins at the Seeklause in Hallstatt, currently under renovation, from where flat-bottomed boats once carried salt downstream on the Traun River. An expert will provide insights into how the Klause functioned. World Heritage innkeeper Tamino Grampelhuber will share the historical role of the traditional inn “Steegwirt” for transporters and boatmen.

Participants will take the Postbus together to the Jodschwefelbad stop in Bad Goisern, where the hike officially starts.

The route crosses the Soleleitungsweg, the world’s oldest pipeline, in operation since 1595, connecting Hallstatt to Ebensee.

Here, participants split into two groups:

• Group 1: Easy hike of approx. 6 km with 180 m elevation gain along the forest road into the Weißenbachtal, directly to the Chorinsky Klause.
• Group 2: Scenic, moderately challenging 8 km hike with 350 m elevation gain via the Jochwand Trail to the viewpoint pavilion, then looping along the Jochkopf forest road to the Chorinsky Klause, led by guide Betty Jehle.

At the Chorinsky Klause, participants will enjoy light refreshments and drinks before ÖBF expert Martin Steyrer explains the history and function of the Klause and demonstrates how timber transport was managed in the past.

The hike concludes with a shared return along the forest road to Weissenbach and further to Lauffen, ending with the crossing of the Windensteg at the “Wilden Lauffen.”

Time Schedule

General Information

During this hike on the occasion of World Heritage Day 2026, participants will gain fascinating insights into the historical salt and timber transport in the Salzkammergut. The costs for the guided tour, bus ride, and refreshments at the Chorinsky Klause are covered by the World Heritage Management.

Participation is open to anyone aged 10 and older. The organizers assume no liability.

Participants should bring weather- and hike-appropriate clothing, suitable footwear, and, if needed, their own drinks.

The hike will take place in all weather conditions. Registration is required via this link by Friday, April 17.