Hochschwab (2277m ASL / 7470ft) is the highest mountain of the mountain range with the same name.
Located in the district of Bruck-Mürzzuschlag in the Austrian province of Styria, 12 km southeast of the village Wildalpen and 24 km southwest of Mariazell.
Like on almost all Austrian mountains,
christian cross stands on the summit plateau. This one is about 6 metres high, made of dark metal of simple design.
Due to exposed location and size, it is supported by 4 metal chains. It can be dated back to 30/07/1950 as suggested by metal plaque dedicated to Styrian youth fallen in WWII.
A metal box with summit register is mounted on the cross too.
Access:
You can follow several hiking trails to the top of Hochschwab.
One of them starts from the village Seewiesen via mountain challets
Voisthalerhütte and
Schiestlhaus.
Trail is also used in winter on skis or snowshoes. Climbers enjoy a large southern wall.
Hochschwab is very frequent in all weather conditions.
Trails from valleys lead to the summit plateau with big christian cross.
Mountain is ideal for weekend hike with night at one of the chalets or in metal bivouac hut.
My Flickr album with more pictures:
Hochschwab by Rikitan