Naturjuwel Bärenschützklamm

The Bärenschützklamm Roaring water, bizarre rock formations, rare plants and animals. The Bärenschützklamm is one of the longest gorges in Austria and amazes its visitors: over 168 wooden bridges with over 3,000 rungs lead the way through the narrow gorge from Mixnitz up to "Zum Guten Hirten", covering a length of 1,300m and overcoming 350 meters in altitude. The first section of stairs was already built in 1901, and in 1978 the Bärenschützklamm was declared a "Natural Monument". The Bärenschützklamm is a section of the Central Alpine Trail 02 and part of probably the most beautiful and exciting hike in the Graz Bergland, whose actual highlight is the Hochlantsch summit with its panoramic view. At 1,720 m, the Hochlantsch is, after all, the highest elevation in the Graz Bergland. Those who climb the Hochlantsch coming from the Bärenschützklamm should definitely make a detour to the wooden pilgrimage chapel Schüsserlbrunn, which clings picturesquely to the rock and can only be reached via steps. From the Hochlantsch, the path leads down to the Teichalm with the Teichalmsee and the Almen (mountain pastures) all around – a wonderfully gentle and wide landscape and thus the counterpoint to the Bärenschützklamm. On the tour through the Bärenschützklamm, it is also worth taking a look to the side: many a pretty plant stretches its blossoms towards us from the limestone rock faces. Early in spring after the snowmelt, the Christmas rose shows its white blossoms. Later in spring and into summer, the crown vetch sprouts its delicate yellow butterfly blossoms. And the rare yellow monkshood also develops its yellow blossoms. The wildlife is equally noteworthy and usually not to be overlooked: at the upper and lower ends of the gorge, the stately ibexes are often observed. They are not shy at all and let us humans get surprisingly close. In addition, two other horned animals appear: mouflon and chamois. Peregrine falcons repeatedly circle in the air. Dogs are not allowed in the gorge; we recommend the hike with children aged 7 and older. To the hike Take the opportunity and travel by public transport. Sammeltaxi Oststeiermark (shared taxi) stop number: BM3516 Mixnitz - Bärenschützklamm, booking hotline +43 50 36 37 38 or www.oststeiermark.at/sam, RegioBusse (regional buses) and trains at www.verbundlinie.at "Bärli-Express" Shuttle to the starting point of the Bärenschützklamm The Bärli-Express brings visitors to the starting point of the hiking tour during the Bärenschützklamm season. The shuttle runs from Thursday to Sunday every half hour: 08:30 to 12:30 13:30 to 18:00 ATTENTION: The Bärli-Express will take a break from June 25 to July 01, 2026. Next trip again from July 2. Fares: Single trip: € 3 Round trip: € 5 Tickets are available directly from the shuttle on site. Reservations are not possible. From Monday to Wednesday, special trips for 15 people or more can be booked. Contact: +43 650 86 68 668 Frequently asked questions:When is the Bärenschützklamm open?> The Bärenschützklamm is open daily during regular operation from May 01 to October 31. In case of heavy rain, storm, hail or thunderstorms, a temporary closure for safety reasons is possible.How much does admission to the Bärenschützklamm cost?> A fee of € 10.00 for adults, € 8.00 for ÖAV members and € 6.00 for young people from 6 to 16 years is charged for the gorge's maintenance. > Payment can be made in cash or by card. > There are NO group prices.How far is the ticket booth at the gorge entrance?> From the parking lots in Mixnitz, it takes approximately 1 ½ hours to walk to the gorge entrance. > From the Premium parking lot at the Jausenstation Grassauer (snack station), it only takes about an hour to the ticket booth.Where can I park?> In Mixnitz, three paid parking lots are available. Parking lots 1 and 2 are located directly in Mixnitz. The Premium parking lot offers 40 parking spaces and is located next to the Jausenstation Grassauer. > Only card payment is possible at all parking lots. > A full-day parking ticket costs € 6.00 each for parking lots 1 and 2 and € 9.00 for the Premium parking lot.Are children and dogs allowed in the Bärenschützklamm?> Children are very welcome in the Bärenschützklamm, but it should be noted that the hike is demanding and can be dangerous for smaller children in some places. It is recommended to only go on the hike with children aged 7 and older. > Parents or accompanying persons are responsible! > Entering the gorge with dogs is NOT permitted.How long does the hike take?> Depending on which variant you choose, the total duration of the hike can be between 4.5 and 9 hours. > The path through the gorge itself takes about an hour. > Inform yourself in advance about the weather conditions. Bring enough provisions and water. Inform yourself in advance about refreshment stops along the way.

Opening hours & season

• 01.05.2026 – 31.10.2026daily08:00–16:00