On the other side of the Riesneralm lies the Sölktaler Nature Park. Today we’re going on a magnificent hike through the Sölktaler Nature Park. The route we’re taking is also known as the Deneck walk. This walk is sublime, but it does require a good level of fitness. The climb isn’t technically difficult, but there is a fair bit of elevation gain.
The Deneck hike: 3 lakes, a high plateau and a tough summit
We drive from Donnersbachwald to Stein an der Enns. There we drive up the Sölkner pass. After about 20 km, we arrive at Kaltenbachalm. Here we park our car and start our walk.
The walk is pretty straightforward. We just follow the path and, after an initial climb, arrive at the lower Kaltenbachsee. We then climb further to the middle Kaltenbachsee. Here we enjoy our lunch in this beautiful setting.
We then climb further to the upper Kaltenbachsee. This one is a bit smaller. After that, we climb further and reach the Etrachboden plateau. From there, we move on to get to the top of the Deneck.
However to weather seems to block our plans. Thunderstorms were announced by the evening. The evening is still a while away but in the distance we can still see that clouds are starting to accumulate. Thunderstorms in the mountains, we don’t want to experience that. Therefore, we choose to be on the safe side and decide to retrace our steps. We will definitely come back here.
Even though we weren’t able to complete this stunning walk in the Sölktaler Nature Park, we’re impressed by what we’ve seen. For the more adventurous, this hike is definitely highly recommended.
More information on this walk can be found here and here vinden.
