Picnic on the Markbachjoch
Summer By gondola from Niederau up the mountain for a picnic with a view
Hiking in the Wildschönau and around · Summer
Markbachjoch hike
Niederau's best-known mountain hike, with a lift up or down
The Markbachjoch is the hiking area you reach by the Markbachjochbahn, an eight-person gondola, from the centre of Niederau. From the mountain station (about 1,500 m), quiet routes lead across alpine pastures with views of the Wilder Kaiser. Nearby is the Holzalm, also called the Käsealm, where cheese-making can be watched in summer and fresh milk, alpine cheese and light snacks are served.
You can take the lift up or down and walk the rest, or do the whole trip on foot. Experienced hikers continue to the Feldalphorn. In 2026 the lift runs in summer from 9 May to 18 October, generally during the day. It is also one of the easiest places to introduce children to the mountains.
- AgeFrom approx. 6 years
- DurationApprox. 2 to 4 hours depending on the route
- CostLift is charged; walking is free
- DistanceIn Niederau itself
- SeasonSummer (2026: 9 May to 18 October)
- LocationNiederau, Wildschönau (Tyrol)
Tips
- Use the lift on the way up or down if the full trip is too long for the children.
- Walking shoes and a jacket are advisable; it gets cooler up top.
- Try the alpine cheese at the Holzalm (Käsealm).
Practical
The valley station of the Markbachjochbahn is in the centre of Niederau, so it is a few minutes away on foot or by car. Check the current timetable.
Always check times, prices and opening dates with the provider beforehand; they can change.
Frequently asked questions
Can you reach the Markbachjoch without climbing?
Yes, with the Markbachjochbahn from Niederau; in 2026 it runs in summer from 9 May to 18 October.
More in this theme
Winter walk between Niederau and Oberau
Winter Easy, flat winter walk past farms, also with a buggy
Winter hike from the Markbachjoch to Niederau
Winter Ride up and walk back down to the valley through winter scenery
Family snowshoe walk
Winter Walk through deep snow, away from the beaten track
Kragenjoch round with Achentalalm from Oberau
Summer An easy family walk along a forest road to an alm
Hohe Salve from Hopfgarten
Summer Panorama peak with a pilgrimage chapel above the Brixental
Stay in Niederau Partner
Hotel Wastlhof, partner of Niederau.nl, is a family-run hotel with an indoor and an outdoor pool, wellness and its own riding stables, right in the village. For more places to stay and information you can also contact the Wildschönau tourist office.
To Hotel Wastlhof · Wildschönau tourist office · More about staying in Niederau