Graukogel
A "classic" ski mountain east of town with quiet forest runs, and in summer a hiking route to high-altitude lakes such as Palfner See.
Graukogel (2,492 m) lies east of Bad Gastein. It is one of the oldest ski areas in Gastein and once hosted an Alpine Ski World Cup. Most of its runs pass through forest and are rarely crowded, making it suitable for intermediate skiers and families. When the chairlift runs in summer, you can take it to the middle station and hike for about 1.5–2 hours to Palfner See, then continue up to Riedl See, whose surface reflects the surrounding peaks. It is one of the most popular high-lake hikes near town. The lift station is on the slope east of town, reachable on foot from the centre or by ski bus. The summer lift season is short, so check operating dates before you go.
Opening hours
Cable car runs seasonally (ski season in winter; July–September in summer)
Nearby sights
- Kötschach Valley
- Bad Gastein Belle Époque Centre
- Kaiser Wilhelm Promenade
- Gastein Waterfall
- St. Nicholas Church
- Felsentherme Gastein
- Altböckstein Mining Museum
- Stubnerkogel & Suspension Bridge