Barenschutzklamm

The Barenschutzklamm above Mixnitz is one of the more demanding gorge walks in Austria: the route opened in 1901 and climbs about three hundred and fifty metres over roughly a kilometre and a half of gorge on a structure of something like a hundred and sixty ladders, stairs and bridges bolted to the rock directly above the water, with the Mixnitzbach falling beside you the whole way. It is a one-way route - you go up and come back by a forest path or continue to the Guter Hirte hut and the Hochlantsch above. In 2020 a large rockfall destroyed a section and the gorge was closed for several years while the route was rebuilt, reopening after substantial work; that history is a reminder that these structures need constant maintenance and do sometimes fail.

What you actually see

• About 164 ladders and bridges - the built route bolted above the water.
• A 350-metre climb - continuous ascent through the gorge in a kilometre and a half.
• The stream beside you - falling alongside the structure the whole way.
• A rebuilt route - reopened after the 2020 rockfall closed it for years.

When to go

May to October; closed in winter. Half a day.

Honest expectations

This is a strenuous one-way climb, not a stroll - reasonable fitness and a head for exposure are needed. Wood is slippery when wet. The gorge closes in winter and after rockfall; check before going.

Nearby

Mixnitz is at the foot; Bruck an der Mur and Graz are along the valley.