Hohe Tauern National Park, National park in central Alpine region, Austria
Hohe Tauern National Park spreads across three Austrian states and contains interconnected mountain terrain ranging from glaciers and Alpine meadows to deep valleys. The landscape features steep rock formations, rushing rivers, and forested slopes that descend into settlements at lower elevations.
The protected area was established to preserve the Alpine landscape and balance conservation with traditional land use practices. Historic stone mountain huts, some among Austria's oldest structures, demonstrate centuries of human presence and seasonal occupation in these high valleys.
Alpine herding traditions shape the landscape, with shepherds moving livestock seasonally across mountain pastures as they have done for centuries. This practice remains visible in the scattered farmsteads and grazing patterns that visitors encounter throughout the valleys.
Access comes through various valleys with visitor centers in local towns that offer exhibitions and guided walks through different zones. Conditions change rapidly at these elevations, so visitors need proper mountain footwear, layers, and should plan for sudden weather shifts.
The territory hosts an extraordinary range of wildlife adapted to high altitude, including ibex, marmots, and bearded vultures that thrive nowhere else. Visitors who observe carefully may spot these animals moving through rocky terrain where they have few natural predators.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
