Gamshag

Gamshag is a mountain peak in Salzburg that rises to about 2,178 meters and is accessed through a network of established hiking trails. The summit area features open alpine meadows framed by the dramatic rock walls of the Hohen Tauern and the jagged peaks of the Wilden Kaiser.

The trails around this peak developed from ancient trade routes that merchants used to cross the Tyrolean Alps between valleys during the medieval period. These paths have remained in use for hundreds of years, forming the foundation of today's hiking routes.

The name comes from the Alpine chamois, an agile mountain goat that inhabits these high peaks. Visitors often spot these animals grazing on steep slopes, where they have lived for centuries alongside local communities.

The hike demands good fitness and sturdy footwear because the trails include steep sections and involve spending hours at high altitude. Starting early in the day is wise, and hikers should be prepared for sudden weather changes that can occur rapidly in the mountains.

The Hochtorsee, a small lake near the summit, remains icy throughout summer and hosts rare Alpine plants along its shores. Many hikers overlook this secluded spot, which offers a quiet refuge where mountain species thrive far from busy trails.