Hochturm

The Hochturm stands at the eastern edge of the Trenchtling massif in the Hochschwab range of the Austrian Alps. This limestone ridge rises above the Tragöß valley and stretches roughly five kilometres from west to east. Its neighbours include the Großwand and the Lamingegg, while the Leobner Mauer lies a short distance to the west. The Hochturm is worth the climb for its sweeping views across the Hochschwab peaks. The plateau on its eastern side is protected as a nature reserve, home to rare alpine plants such as edelweiss and orchids. The mountain’s name comes from an old alpine farm, first recorded in 1441 as the Truontin Alm. A clearly marked path crosses the plateau and continues to the Hochturm’s summit. From the plateau the final ascent is steep but short, ending at a metal cross with a panoramic outlook. Walkers usually start from the Polsterhütte or the Hiaslegg, where the marked routes take between two and a half and three hours.