BergZeitReise Day Hike No. 12: Hiking up to the Schwarzkogel

Nestled in the heart of the Fischbach Alps, the 1,448-meter Schwarzkogel is a true hidden gem for those who enjoy summiting lesser-known peaks. In return, you'll be rewarded with a rustic alpine hut and a scenic hiking trail that leads to a panoramic summit.

The tour begins at the Eibeggsattel, near a large information board. The saddle can be reached via a narrow mountain road from either Allerheiligen im Mürztal or Breitenau am Hochlantsch. At first, follow a short stretch of forest road until the marked hiking trail (red markings) branches off slightly to the left across a meadow. Passing through a pasture gate, the trail climbs steadily—signposted on a grazing slope—and passes a small stable before reaching a scenic ridge marked by a fence. Just on the other side, slightly hidden, lies the small Eibeggerhütte.

Continue uphill along the marked path, now through dense forest and up a steep trail to the Brandnerberg summit (marked with a wooden summit sign). From there, the trail ascends more gently across alpine meadows, some rocky terrain, and a forest road until you reach the Grabenbauerhöhe. Turn right here, and after about 2 hours of total hiking time, a final steep climb leads you to the summit of the Schwarzkogel, complete with summit cross, bench, and summit register.

The view from the unassuming Schwarzkogel is truly magnificent: the Mürz Valley, the Hochschwab range, the Eisenerz Alps and the peaks of the Mürzer Oberland to the north, and the Graz mountain region with Hochlantsch to the south.

Return the same way in about 1.5 hours — ideally with a cozy break at the Eibeggerhütte on Sundays and public holidays.