HPB Viehhofen: Kohlmaiskopf Bernkogel & Saalbach

A fine mountain walk using the Kohlmais cabin lift (upwards only) to its top station, then walking along the high ground which separates the Spielberggraben (a tributary valley of the Glemm) from the 'Leogang' Valley, as far as the Bernkogel summit.

A variety of tracks is then used to return along the valley side to Saalbach.  There are sections of narrow path, but nothing is difficult or dangerous.  Above the top station of the cabin lift is a terrace with viewing boards, with scores of names peaks visible in all directions.

By the exit from the station is a board with numerous signs. For Bernkogel go through a stile and descend a steep narrow path, heading for the top building of a ski lift.

Walk

1. At the bottom rake back sharp left along a narrow path with abundant red and white waymarks, crossing a bilberry covered hillside before reaching pine forest. The path descends gradually, somewhat impeded by tree roots; there are excellent views into the 'Leogang' valley. At an apparent junction follow the waymarks down to the right, soon rising to the top of the broad ridge. Pass a junction, going straight ahead for 'Saalbach, Hohenweg' and rising to a stile. Pass under ski lift cables before rising to seats with wonderful views and a log cabin which marks the summit of the Bernkogel (1,709m - 5,609ft).

2. Continue by descending towards the Spielberghorn, in clear view ahead.  Reach a junction with seat and signs. Go left here for 'Spielherghaus and Saalbach'. Descent to a stile.

3. Go over the stile, turning left at once to continue the descent; there are circular red and white waymarks and another signpost 'Burgeralm'.

4. At a signposted junction; there is a large building below to the right. Go left over a stile for 'Spielberghaus and Saalbach'. Descend to a rough road at a signpost; turn sharp left to descend, following 'Saalbach'. The views include the Spielberggraben and the buildings on top of the Schmittenhohe. The roadway crosses open hillside, soon twisting and turning to reach the buildings at Wirtsalm, a great meeting place of routes.

5. Facing the front of Wirtsalm go to the right. Pass a sign 'Maisalm' and go along a little path, crossing a stream before crossing a meadow on an easy path. There are patches of woodland, stiles and plank bridges along this section of the route.

6. At a signposted junction turn right to continue the descent on an unsurfaced roadway, passing a wooden hut; there is a first view of Saalbach. Approach Maisalm; go round the farm building at the 10ft high plastic green headed monster, turn right down a little path to a stile and a minor path direct to the Maisalm building. Go round Maisalm and continue down the road in zig zags. Cross a stream with water control works and bear right then left to continue to the top end of the Saalbach main street, close to the mouth of the tunnel.  Turn left to walk to the Kohlmais cabin lift car park (or continue through the village to the Schattberg X press car park).

Click here for further details about HPB Viehhofen; where 7 holiday units form the perfect retreat following a day's skiing or walking in an area of inspiring natural beauty.