Sunrise Hike to Hochkogel
If you've ever dreamt of embarking on a breathtaking adventure with awe-inspiring vistas, the Sunrise Hike to Hochkogel might be just your cup of tea. Hochkogel, a majestic mountain standing at 2,249 meters near Saalbach, promises an unparalleled view of the surrounding peaks. Reaching the summit is no walk in the park; it involves a steep hiking trail, making it an ideal playground for the true hiking enthusiast!
Preparations
Getting to the top is more about early risers than the actual sunrise view. You see, some hikers set off in the wee hours of the morning because the ascent takes roughly 3 hours from the starting point. To reach this starting point, you'll need to catch the Schattberg X-press to Hochkogel. So, before you set off on your journey, it's essential to check if the weather forecast is favorable and ensure you're in good shape. Once you've got that sorted, you're all set to conquer the pinnacle of your hiking adventure!
The Mountain Top
The summit of the Hochkogel is a whopping 2,249 meters high and, due to the stunning views, the absolute highlight of the climb. The summit is surrounded by mountain ranges, often adorned with a beautiful, low-hanging blanket of clouds. Furthermore, in the early morning, you can relish the sight of the sun rising from behind the mountain peaks, painting the sky a captivating shade of orange.
Highest Point
At the highest point, you can not only enjoy the view but also the large cross that stands there. The cross is often a Catholic symbol placed in the 13th century to commemorate the 'conquering' of the mountain, but since the 16th century, it can also serve as a marker for (municipal) boundaries or, since the 19th century, as a lightning rod and measuring instrument. Besides the unique cross, there is plenty of space to take a rest and, for example, have a picnic on top of the mountain!
Useful Tips
As mentioned earlier, this hike is perfect for the adventure-seeking souls. However, it also means that some preparations are in order before embarking on this journey. Here are some handy tips:
- Carry a warm sweater or jacket, as it can get chilly.
- Put sturdy hiking boots on, as the path might be muddy.
- Pack ample food and water for sustenance.
- Bring a handheld or headlamp for the early morning trek.
- Don't forget to carry a quality camera to capture the breathtaking views.
- Check the sunrise time to plan your departure accordingly.
And last but not least: Enjoy the moment!