We begin our hike at Preiner Gscheid, initially hiking uphill on a former ski slope towards Siebenbrunnerwiese.
Here, we are already treated to the first close-up views of the rocky landscapes of the Rax, including the Predigtstuhl. These stunning views can be fully enjoyed on the terrace of the Waxriegelhaus (about 1 hour from Preiner Gscheid), which is located near Siebenbrunnerwiese.
After a short rest, we continue on, first through a high forest, and then follow a partly narrow path (marked in yellow) heading northeast to the Seehütte, located below the striking Preiner Wand – we are now in Lower Austria. The small, cozy hut invites us to pause, before we continue for about 1 hour across the Rax high plateau (be cautious in foggy conditions) to reach the Habsburghaus.
This majestic mountain hut was once a popular climbing base before the Binderwirtshaus in the valley, which served as the starting point for mountain tours in this area, was demolished.
Now, the Habsburghaus is a real hidden gem.
Here, we can take a well-deserved rest before the final alpine stretch of our hut tour begins. This part of the hike takes us over mostly wide paths for about 1 hour to the Karl Ludwig Haus at the edge of the Rax high plateau.
For the more enthusiastic hikers, it is easy to detour and reach the highest point of the Rax, the Heukuppe (2,007 meters), with an additional 45 minutes of walking.
Along with spectacular panoramic views, visitors can enjoy delicious organic food here before heading downwards via the Schlangenweg (easy) or Gretchensteig (slightly more difficult, with some secured sections). From there, you can return either to the Waxriegelhaus or directly to Preiner Gscheid, where the Edelweisshütte awaits.