Franz-Josephs-Höhe

The Franz-Josephs-Höhe rises to 1033 metres in the Murberge range, a shoulder of the Bocksruck that marks the border between Pölstal and Pöls-Oberkurzheim. The summit sits north of the higher Wagnerkogel, offering a clear view of the surrounding valleys. The mountain belongs to the Upper Styrian Alps, where the Mur flows through steep wooded slopes. A gentle five-kilometre loop leads walkers up to the top in about an hour. The trail passes the parish church in Oberzeiring, a 19th-century building with a tall spire visible from far below. The route stays on well-marked forest paths and avoids any climbing or scrambling. At the summit there is a small wooden cross and a bench facing west. From the top the eye follows the Mur valley eastwards towards Judenburg. To the north the Bocksruck blocks the horizon while the softer outlines of the Seckauer Alps appear to the south. On clear days the Dachstein massif can be seen in the distance. The return walk follows the same path, descending through mixed beech and spruce woodland.