Gutenbrunn Ysperklamm Loop No. 46

In addition, a challenging day hike through the Große Ysperklamm The Ysperklamm Loop Gutenbrunn.

It includes the Ysperklamm Loop in Gutenbrunn.

This means that the Ysperklamm Loop in Gutenbrunn is part of it.

The Ysperklamm Loop in Gutenbrunn No. … 46 is one of the most impressive hikes.

In addition, it starts right in town and remains challenging, especially the Ysperklamm loop in Gutenbrunn.

It connects the peaceful Weinsberg Forest with small settlements in the Ysper Valley.

These include the Forellenhof, the Große Ysperklamm, and the idyllic Hansl pond.

On this hike, hikers will experience more than just the forest and the views.

You'll also discover the interplay between water, granite, and historical traces of the log drive.

The current official route for the Ysperklammrunde Gutenbrunn is 17.21 kilometers long.

In addition, the Ysperklamm Loop in Gutenbrunn takes about five hours to hike and involves a total elevation gain and loss of 509 meters.

In addition, the tourism portal classifies the Ysperklammrunde in Gutenbrunn as difficult.

This assessment makes sense.

The total distance is considerable.

The route initially descends significantly.

The Ysperklamm Loop in Gutenbrunn features a series of footbridges, stairways, bridges, and challenging steps stretching over about two kilometers.

The return trip finally ends on the Gutenbrunn Plateau.

The tour is therefore best suited for guests who are in good physical condition and sure-footed.

If you want to explore the gorge but don't want to walk 17 kilometers, you can start right at the Forellenhof.

He also chooses the shorter gorge loop.

Both options are explained in detail in this post.

The most important tour dates at a glance

• Trail Number: 46
• Start and finish: Gutenbrunn Church Square
• Type of hike: challenging loop hike
• Current official distance: 17.21 kilometers
• Calculated length of the downloaded GPX track: approximately 17.19 kilometers
• Walking time: about 5 hours without long breaks
• Ascent: 509 meters in elevation, according to the current tourism portal
• Descent: 509 meters in elevation
• Lowest point: 526 meters
• Highest point: 954 meters
• Difficulty: hard, according to the tourism portal
• Fitness level: 4 out of 6
• Experience Rating: 5 out of 6
• Landscape rating: 5 out of 6
• Starting coordinates: 48.365398° N, 15.118586° E
• Places to eat: Forellenhof and restaurants in Gutenbrunn; check opening hours in advance
• Required equipment: sturdy, non-slip hiking boots, weather and rain gear, plenty of drinks, a snack, a cell phone, an offline map, and hiking poles if needed

Gutenbrunn Ysperklamm Loop

The official GPX file contains 750 waypoints.

Its calculated length is approximately 17.19 kilometers, which very closely matches the current information on the website.

This also applies to the Ysperklamm Loop in Gutenbrunn.

Why the official figures differ from one another

Waldviertel Tourism updated the tour on July 15, 2026, listing it as 17.21 kilometers, five hours, 509 meters of elevation gain, and “difficulty: hard.“ The market town of Gutenbrunn continues to list the route as 17 kilometers, four and a half hours, 619 meters of elevation gain, and “medium” difficulty. The town describes the terrain as consisting of approximately 41 percent asphalt and 59 percent gravel and forest trails.

Such differences can result from variations in elevation models, digital surveying methods, rounding, and older route alignments.

For our GPX file and the GPS hiking map, we use the current version published by the tourism office.

In addition, a more conservative estimate is crucial for personal planning.

Plan on spending a full day hiking.

In addition to the five hours of walking time, be sure to allow extra time for admission, breaks, photos, possible wait times, and stops for refreshments.

Start at Gutenbrunn Church Square

The loop begins at Kirchenplatz. From the Gutenbrunn 133 vacation rentals, the starting point is accessible via a short path. Guests staying at the property can therefore set out directly from their accommodations without first having to drive to a distant parking lot.

From Kirchenplatz, the route leads through the village toward the sports field. The first section follows the familiar course of the Hirschenstein-Ödhof Trail No. … 45. After leaving the village, the route heads into the Weinsberger Forest and continues to the intersection near Ödhof.

Especially at the beginning, you shouldn't go too fast.

The long stretch of the Gutenbrunn Ysperklamm Loop and the subsequent climb up the gorge require plenty of stamina.

You can also feel this when you're hiking at a pace significantly faster than your comfortable pace right from the first few kilometers.

You usually feel it on the way back.

Past the Ödhof and Hirschenstein

At the intersection near the Ödhof, the Ysperklamm Loop branches off from Trail No. … 45. The Ödhof and the Hirschenstein are on the right, while Route No. … 46 continues straight ahead. Several trails intersect in this forested area, so you should pay close attention to the trail markers and the GPX track.

The hike now leads from the high-altitude village of Gutenbrunn toward the Yspertal valley. Along quiet forest trails, the landscape gradually changes. Long stretches of forest alternate with open areas and small settlements.

Through Ried, Ölmühle, and Ismaning

The route then continues through Ried and Ölmühle to Ismaning. This section makes up a significant portion of the long loop and is sometimes underestimated when planning the trip. Although the Ysperklamm is the scenic highlight, it doesn’t begin until several kilometers in.

While on the trail, be sure to follow trail marker No. … 46 at all times. The GPX file should be available offline, as cell phone reception can be spotty in forested areas and valleys. At junctions, it’s better to stop briefly and check your route than to follow a forest trail that seems to fit.

Via Siebendürfting and Pichl to the Forellenhof

From Ismaning, the loop continues through Siebendürfting and Pichl. It then follows a section of regional hiking trail No. … 22. In the valley, the trail leads to the Forellenhof, which is located right at the entrance to the Ysperklamm.

The Forellenhof is a good place to take a break before starting the climb up the gorge. However, you should check in advance to see if it’s open for dining. For the entire loop, you should bring plenty of water and your own food, regardless of whether the restaurant is open.

The Ysperklamm information center is located at the Forellenhof. This is where the section of the gorge that requires an admission fee begins.

Ysperklamm Entrance and Information Center

As of August 15, 2026, the official Ysperklamm website lists the following prices:

• Children ages 0 to 6: free
• Children and teens ages 6 to 15: 3.50 euros
• Adults: 5 euros
• Groups of 15 or more: 3.50 euros per person
• 365-Day Pass: 15 euros plus a 2-euro deposit

According to the operator, payment must be made in cash; ATM payments are not accepted. Therefore, you should bring the exact amount in cash. The information center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from April through October, weather permitting. According to the information provided by the operator, it usually opens at 9 a.m. during the summer months. Outside of staffed hours, tickets can be purchased from the ticket machine.

Since prices and organizational information are subject to change, we recommend checking the official website before your hike. You hike at your own risk.

Through the Great Ysper Gorge

The most spectacular section of the Ysperklammrunde Gutenbrunn loop hike begins at the Forellenhof. The Große Ysper flows through the gorge for a distance of about two kilometers, descending approximately 300 meters in elevation along the way. The water plunges downhill between massive granite boulders, forming cascades and narrow channels, and runs alongside the trail almost the entire way.

Well-secured walkways, stairways, and bridges make the ascent easier. Nevertheless, the trail remains challenging. Wood can be slippery in the rain, when splashed with water, or in damp conditions. Granite steps and tree roots also require caution. Sturdy shoes with good traction are essential here.

In the lower section of the gorge, historic riverbank structures—specifically stone quarries—serve as reminders of the former timber-hauling operations. In the upper section, the gorge narrows. Numerous climbing aids and impressive waterfalls dominate the landscape.

The Red Ritib Bridge

The Rote Riti Bridge is located roughly in the middle of the gorge. It is not only a prominent landmark but also allows visitors to cross earlier and take an easier return route. For visitors who are only exploring the gorge, this spot can be a convenient place to turn back or take a shortcut.

On the full loop No. … 46, however, the climb up the Klamma continues. Anyone who is already feeling significantly exhausted, unsteady, or experiencing knee problems at the Rote Ritibrücke should honestly assess the situation. The return trip to Gutenbrunn is still a long one.

Water, Granite, and Forest

The Ysperklamm gorge is a particularly striking example of how water shapes the granite landscape of the Waldviertel. Smoothly rounded boulders, patches of moss, tree roots, and the shifting force of the Große Ysper create a diverse natural scene. After rain, the stream usually carries more water; at the same time, the footbridges and rocks become more slippery. During prolonged dry spells, the water flow may be lower.

The best spot for taking photos isn't necessarily the safest one. Also, when taking pictures, you should only stop in areas that are wide enough and secure. Furthermore, you must not climb over barriers, and smooth rocks right at the water's edge are not a suitable place to rest.

The History of Log Driving

For centuries, the gorge was part of the regional timber transport system. The municipality of Gutenbrunn documents its use for timber floating from 1599 through the 20th century. The former Ödteich pond above the gorge served as a reservoir for this purpose. By releasing large volumes of water, logs could be transported down the Ysper River toward the Danube.

This story explains the old stone structures in the lower section. Today, they serve as a reminder that this seemingly untouched natural area is also a cultural landscape that has been used for centuries.

Near the former Ödteich

At the upper end of the gorge, the trail reaches the area of the former Ödteich pond. The pond no longer exists in its former form. For hikers, however, the area remains an important landmark: the steep ascent through the gorge is behind them, but the return trip to Gutenbrunn still lies ahead.

After a short break, the trail climbs gently toward the country road to Gutenbrunn. Even though the spectacular stairways and waterfalls are now behind you, concentration and stamina are still required.

Back to Gutenbrunn via Hanslteich

The return route leads through the Weinsberger Forest to the country road and then past Hanslteich. The tranquil pond offers a pleasant contrast to the turbulent Ysperklamm Gorge. After the long day’s hike, the surroundings invite you to take a short break, time, weather, and daylight permitting.

From Hanslteich, the route leads back to Gutenbrunn. Depending on their hours of operation, there are places to stop for refreshments in town. From the church square, it’s just a short walk to the Gutenbrunn 133 vacation rentals.

The shorter option: just the Ysperklamm

Not every guest wants to or is able to complete a 17-kilometer day hike. The official Klammrunde Tour 32 starts at the Forellenhof Inn and covers about four kilometers of ascent and descent. The estimated time for this hike is about one and a half to two hours. About 80 percent of the trail runs along forest paths and reaches elevations between 551 and 820 meters.

The ascent through the gorge takes about an hour. The descent follows the forest trail that runs parallel to it. This route saves you many kilometers, but because of the steps, footbridges, and an elevation gain of about 300 meters, it’s still a proper hike. It’s not a flat stroll.

For guests staying at the house, this option may be a good choice if the gorge itself is the main attraction. In that case, you’ll drive to the Forellenhof; be sure to check the latest parking and access information in advance.

Who is the full course suitable for?

Experienced Hikers

For experienced and sure-footed hikers, this loop offers a wonderful day out with an unusually wide variety of landscapes. A steady pace and an early start are more important than speed.

Older Guests

The full loop is only suitable for physically fit seniors with hiking experience. The distance, elevation gain, and steps in the gorge place demands on stamina, balance, and the knees. Hiking poles are helpful on forest trails, but you must be able to handle them safely on narrow, steep sections. For many older guests, the shorter gorge loop starting at Forellenhof is the wiser choice.

Families with children

The tourism portal describes the loop as family-friendly. This description should not be confused with “suitable for every child.” At 17.21 kilometers, with a five-hour walking time and a challenging climb up the gorge, this hike requires children who are experienced hikers and sure-footed. For younger children, the shorter Tour 32 is usually a better fit. Adults must take special care to supervise children on footbridges, steps, and bridges.

Strollers, walkers, and wheelchairs

Due to its stairs, footbridges, narrow passages, and elevation changes, the gorge is not suitable for strollers, walkers, or wheelchairs. The full loop No. … 46 is also not barrier-free.

Hiking with Your Dog

Only those who are sure-footed and accustomed to walkways and stairs Dogs should be brought along. Narrow passages, oncoming traffic, wet wooden structures, and open steps can cause difficulties. The dog should be kept on a short leash. For large, fearful, or mobility-impaired animals, a different hike is the better choice.

Safety and Equipment

• Start very early and allow for plenty of daylight.
• Check the weather forecast and any possible road closures.
• Wear non-slip hiking boots.
• Save the GPX file offline in advance.
• Be sure to bring plenty of water and a high-energy snack.
• Be sure to bring cash for the gorge admission fee.
• Walk slowly and carefully on wet walkways.
• Use hiking poles outside of narrow sections of the trail.
• Do not enter the gorge during thunderstorms, storms, icy conditions, or when there is a risk of flooding.
• Please respect marked trails and barriers.
• Check the opening hours of the places to stop for refreshments in advance.
• When taking photos, stop only in safe, sufficiently wide areas.

Best Time of Year

Spring, summer, and fall are the best times to visit. In the spring and after rain, the water flow is often particularly impressive, but the risk of slipping also increases. In the summer, the forest provides shade, but you’ll need plenty of drinking water for the longer, open, and uphill sections. Fall offers clear air and beautiful colors.

In the event of frost, snow, or ice, the walkways and steps can become dangerous. The fact that a tour description is available year-round does not guarantee that the gorge can be safely traversed in all weather conditions. The operator’s current notices always take precedence.

Experiencing a Natural Landmark Responsibly

The Ysperklamm is a protected natural area. Plants, mosses, and the riverbanks must not be damaged. Please put any trash back in your backpack. Loud music disturbs animals and other hikers. By staying on the marked trails and respecting the safety measures, you help ensure that this natural experience is preserved.

Forestry work may also take place on the long forest sections of the trail. Barriers and detours must be obeyed. Do not walk on the woodpiles.

Set out on a hike right from the Gutenbrunn vacation rentals

For guests staying in the area, the big advantage of this loop is that it starts right in town. A short path leads from your vacation home to the church square. Upon your return, a shower, rest, and relaxation are just a short walk away—a pleasant way to end a five-hour or longer outing.

Anna and Herbert are happy to help you choose the right route. If you’re unsure about your fitness level, we recommend the short Klamm loop starting at Forellenhof or one of the easier Gutenbrunn loop trails. The best hike isn’t the longest one, but the one you can complete safely and enjoyably.

Our conclusion

The Ysperklamm Loop in Gutenbrunn (No. 46) is a highlight for active hikers.

It connects Gutenbrunn, the Weinsberg Forest, small settlements, the Forellenhof, the Große Ysper, and the Hanslteich.

It offers a variety of day tours.

At 17.21 kilometers and 509 meters of elevation gain, this route requires thorough preparation, sure-footedness, and endurance. Those who meet these requirements will enjoy an extraordinary hike. For those who want to focus on the gorge, the four-kilometer Tour 32 offers a significantly shorter alternative.

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