Schmittenstein, Monumental cross in Salzburg region, Austria.
Schmittenstein is a monumental cross located at 2,123 meters elevation in the Osterhorn mountain group south of Salzburg. The cross stands at a summit accessible via several marked hiking routes that wind through varied alpine terrain and meadows.
The cross was erected generations ago as a landmark for travelers crossing the Salzkammergut region. Over time it became an established reference point within the alpine landscape that guides both locals and visitors.
The cross serves as a gathering place where people from the surrounding communities connect with their mountain identity and traditions. It represents how locals view high peaks as meaningful landmarks that bind them to the landscape.
The routes to the cross are well marked with trailhead access from several starting points, with the Gasthof Grundbichl parking area being the most common departure point. Most visitors should plan for around 2 to 2.5 hours of hiking time to reach the summit depending on fitness level and chosen route.
Along the route hikers encounter a weather cross built in 2008 by students from LWS Winklhof school as a class project. This smaller cross shows how young people engage with and contribute to the local alpine heritage of the area.
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