This alpine trail circuit connects two of the most beautiful lakes in the Gastein Valley - Reedsee and Palfnersee - and is a real highlight for lovers of technical trails. The start is at the Graukogel valley station, from where the trail leads via the Hardtweg into the Kötschachtal valley - a steady but easy climb past a mighty rock face, the ‘Himmelwand’. After crossing the Kötschachbach stream, the steep section up to Reedsee begins: stony serpentines, rooty passages and rocky terrain demand surefootedness. At the top, a picture-book quiet mountain lake awaits - emerald green and flanked by larch trees. But the tour doesn't end here: an alpine high-altitude trail leads further into the Palfnerkar. The trail becomes rougher, the views wilder - with views of the Gamskarkogel massif and the Ankogel group. Continue along the hiking trail around the Graukogel and the view over the Gastein Valley opens up. From the mountain station of the Graukogel lift, the trail leads along the ski piste back into the valley. A challenging tour that requires alpine experience, stamina and an appetite for technical trails.
