A trail to help the lynx | Luchstrail im Gesäuse
Aussicht vor dem Berg auf Etappe 2

A trail to help the lynx

Long-distance walking in the home of the lynx – helping protect it

Luchsweibchen im Schnee

The Lynx Trail is a long-distance trail with 11 stages through three large internationally recognised protected areas and fringes Austria’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site (beech forests). It goes through Austria’s wild, wooded middle, repeatedly recognised by the Alpine Convention as a pilot region for its ecological network.

The stunning mountain landscape is probably the largest natural wooded area in central Europe. This is why the lynx was re-introduced here. The trail highlights the plight of this endangered animal, contributing to its protection and survival. A happy coincidence is that the trail also takes you through extremely attractive walking country.

As a hiker on the Lynx Trail you will be challenged. The stages are long with steep ascents. Your senses will also be challenged – keep your eyes and ears open. But don’t worry, even if you don’t see a lynx, you will feel the presence of this amazing animal.

A group of Austrian protected areas and regional tourism associationsdeveloped the Lynx Trail. Local municipalities and alpine clubs look after their respective trail sections and are trail partners.

We need to thank/acknowledge the landowners whose forests the trail goes through between the protected areas. Amongst others are the Austrian State Forests, Steiermark Provincial Forests, the Admont Foundation, the Seehof (Lunz) Forest Administration, municipalities and a range of farm-woodland owners. They create habitat for lynxes and allow them to pass through their areas. Please respect private facilities along the trails!