A wonderful, long hike for people seeking time out, leading to one of the most spectacular peaks in the Murau region for views.
At its highest point, the Trattenkogel measures 1,793 m and is one of the most superb mountains in the district of Murau when it comes to views. Nestled in the valley is the small, charming town of Ranten, which is where this tour starts on the marked Hiking Trail 4 towards the summit. The route starts off still in the valley and then continues up the mountain along the signposted logging road. A footpath winds along the mountain ridge to a summit cross, located a short distance from the peak itself. From here, there's a stunning view over to Ranten and you can also enjoy a panoramic vista of the Niedere Tauern. Even though it's tempting to linger, there are only a few more minutes to go before victory. In fine weather you can take a break here, but those who prefer to keep going can stop off at the Sofie Hütte on the return leg into the valley, which is highly recommended.For a shorter variant of the tour, you can drive up to the Sofie Hütte by car.
Coming from Judenburg via Unzmarkt to Scheifling. Here turn right in the direction of Murau. In Murau turn right at the double traffic circle towards Ranten.
Coming from Tamsweg via Stadl an der Mur drive to Murau. At the double traffic circle turn left towards Ranten.
From our starting point at the Gasthaus Hammerschmied in Ranten, we set off on the flat valley floor and then continue through the forest, always keeping to Trail 4 heading south. Follow the signposted logging road on the Gschwendtriegel. The logging road comes to an end at a hunter's lodge, and we now take the footpath along the ridge to the summit cross, which is situated a short distance from the actual summit. From here, it's just a few more minutes to the top. Coming back down, we follow the white/red marked hiking trail via the Hiasala farm. This runs down the north-eastern slopes of the Trattenkogel initially on a footpath and later on a logging road to the alpine pastures of Kulm. Continue via the Hiasala farm and after another 300m or so, you will come to the Sofie Hütte known as Ruapmbauer. The gravel track now guides us down into the valley, where it meets the Rantenbach stream at the Weiler Tratten. At this point, we turn left and hike approx. two kilometres along the cycle path back to the start.
On the way, admire a stunning wayside shrine at the Hiasala farm.
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Sufficient parking spaces are available at the Gasthof Hammerschmied.
On the way, admire a stunning wayside shrine at the Hiasala farm. Information brochures are available at the tourist information offices. Freytag & berndt, Wander-Rad-Freizeitkarte, WK 211, Naturpark Zirbitzkogel Grebenzen, Murau, Sölkpass, 1:50 000, ISBN 978-3-85084-680-6
