Highlight • Mountain Pass
Cycling
4.7
(49)
The Gscheid Pass Summit, also known as Kernhofer Gscheid Pass, is a scenic mountain pass located in the Austrian Alps within the Bundesland of Lower Austria. Reaching an elevation of 970 meters (3,182 feet), it serves as a vital connection between Kernhof in the Traisen River valley and Terz in the Salza River valley, situated near the pilgrimage town of Mariazell. This pass is a gateway to the stunning alpine landscapes of the region, offering access to the nearby Ötscher…
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Gscheid Pass Summit
4.9
(44)
324
riders
86.9km
05:40
1,150m
1,150m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(24)
138
riders
92.0km
06:06
1,140m
1,130m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
73
riders
101km
06:48
1,510m
1,510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 970 m
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Friday 13 March
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6°C
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Max wind speed: 28.0 km/h
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While the Gscheid Pass Summit itself is primarily a road pass, it serves as an excellent starting point for various hiking excursions into the surrounding Lower Austrian Alps. You can find trails leading to nearby peaks like the Göller (1,766 m) to the south and the Tirolerkogel (1,377 m) to the north. These range from moderate ascents to more challenging routes, offering diverse experiences for hikers.
Yes, the Gscheid Pass Summit area can be family-friendly, especially for those looking for scenic drives or shorter, less strenuous walks. The presence of the Gschaid Restaurant and a small church at the summit provides a convenient and pleasant stop. For hiking with children, look for trails that are clearly marked as easy or moderate, and always check the current conditions. The nearby Ötscher Nature Park also offers family-oriented activities.
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Austrian Alps, including those around Gscheid Pass Summit. However, it's crucial to keep them on a leash, especially in nature protection areas, near livestock, or in crowded sections. Always carry water for your dog and be prepared to clean up after them. Check local signage for any specific restrictions.
There is parking available directly at the Gscheid Pass Summit, primarily serving visitors to the Gschaid Restaurant and the church. While the intro suggests availability, it's always wise to arrive earlier during peak season or on weekends to secure a spot, especially if you plan a longer hike.
During winter, Gscheid Pass Summit can experience significant snowfall, and conditions can become challenging. While the main road is generally cleared, some higher elevation trails may be impassable or require specialized equipment like snowshoes or touring skis. Always check local weather forecasts and road conditions before planning a winter visit. The best time for general outdoor activities is typically late spring through early autumn.
Directly at the Gscheid Pass Summit, you'll find the Gschaid Restaurant, which may offer limited guest rooms, but it's primarily a dining establishment. For more comprehensive accommodation options, you would need to look in nearby towns such as Kernhof, Annaberg, or Terz, or further afield towards Mariazell, which offer a range of hotels, guesthouses, and holiday apartments.
Both are high mountain passes in Lower Austria, but they offer distinct experiences. The Kernhofer Gscheid Pass (970 m) is known for its direct access to the Ötscher Nature Park, with a church and restaurant at the summit, and a maximum road grade of 13%. The Preiner Gscheid Pass (1,070 m) is located further east, marks a border between Lower Austria and Styria, and is a major starting point for extensive hiking routes on the Rax plateau, featuring the Edelweißhütte guesthouse and a historic Mariensäule.
The road over Kernhofer Gscheid Pass presents a notable challenge for cyclists due to its maximum grade of 13 percent. This makes it a rewarding climb for road cyclists seeking a strenuous ascent. The winding roads leading to and from the pass, particularly towards Annaberg and into the Ötscher Nature Park, offer scenic routes with varying gradients for both road and gravel cycling.
Public transport options directly to Gscheid Pass Summit are limited. While regional bus services might operate in the broader area, direct routes to the summit are uncommon. It is generally recommended to access the pass by car or bicycle. Check local bus schedules for connections to nearby towns like Kernhof or Terz, from where you might need to arrange further transport.
Absolutely! The Gscheid Pass Summit itself offers panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape. Directly south of the pass lies the majestic Göller (1,766 m), and five kilometers to the north is the Tirolerkogel (1,377 m), both prominent peaks that contribute to the scenic vistas. The pass also serves as a gateway to the diverse natural beauty of the Ötscher Nature Park to the west.
When hiking in the Gscheid Pass Summit area, it's essential to dress in layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are crucial. Depending on the season, pack waterproof and windproof outer layers, a warm mid-layer, and moisture-wicking base layers. Don't forget sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and plenty of water, even on cloudy days.