Hüttschlag: Kreuzeck- Karteistörl - Tappenkarsee - Draugsteintörl - Draugsteinalmen

This circular hike begins at the Hallmoosalm parking area in Hüttschlag, which can be reached either by car or conveniently by hiking taxi. The start is gentle, leading initially through shady forest passages before the path climbs across open alpine pastures to the Karteisalm. The unmanaged mountain hut is nestled in a wide cultural landscape, which is particularly impressive in early summer with its flowering alpine meadows and atmospheric lighting conditions.

As you climb higher, the view opens up and the ascent to Kreuzeck conveys a distinct feeling of space and freedom. The Kreuzeck is the first major highlight of the tour – a summit moment that invites you to pause and take in the view far beyond the surrounding mountains. The route then follows a scenic high-altitude trail towards the Karteistörl. Along the way, there are impressive views of the Tappenkarsee, the largest mountain lake in the Eastern Alps, which shapes the landscape far below. The crossings, old paths and gate and fence passages along the way bear witness to the craftsmanship of past generations and to an alpine culture that is still alive today.

The hike continues along a ridge path to Draugsteintörl. Once there, you can enjoy a final panoramic view of Lake Tappenkarsee before beginning the descent to the Draugsteinalmen alpine pastures. This area is home to a particularly rich variety of alpine flora and fauna: the calcareous subsoil provides ideal living conditions for a diverse range of plants and animals, including numerous rare species of flowers. It is particularly important to treat nature, animals and infrastructure with respect in these sensitive summit and pasture areas.

Once you arrive at the Draugstein alpine pastures, you will see the Steinmannhütte on the right and the Schrambachhütte on the left when viewed from above. Both alpine pastures invite you to stop for a bite to eat with regional delicacies from their own production. Well fortified, the trail finally leads back to the starting point of the tour. This hike impressively combines nature experiences and alpine culture in the Großarltal, the valley of alpine pastures.