L3 Saaßer Trail

This circular route takes us from Garsten train station via Saaß into the Steyr nature reserve of Himmlitzer and back to Garsten. About 18 km and almost 200 m of ascent are covered.

We start the run at the station in Garsten and first run along the left side of the street, then turn right at the wall of the Garsten prison. Past the warehouse, left again, then up the street to the right. At the bend, we take the path to the right and pass a wayside shrine. Here we cross the street and continue along the Teufelsbach until we reach the Gastner pond. A short forest section follows, which then brings us to Herrenweidestraße, which we will follow to Saaß.

After exactly 5 km, we turn into the Saaß forest and run to Schwamming. Here, at a farm, we turn left onto a gravel road towards Pierer Au. A 1.5 km straight stretch takes us towards the Steyr river. Along the Au, past Pergern station of the Steyrtalbahn, we now run the next 6 km through the Himmlitzer Au. Past the Kruglwehr, we then head at the Black Bridge towards the dog training place. Here we meet the tracks of the Steyrtalbahn again. Shortly after, it goes steeply right uphill, which takes us directly to the museum railway station.

Past the football field, we now return to Garsten. We run through the district of Reichenschwall. Down the Sarningberg, about 1 km more straight towards Stift Garsten, and we are back to our starting point at the station.

The required equipment always depends on the specific route and the weather conditions. Regarding provisions: This is very individual and it is advisable to have more rather than less equipment and food. A 5 km round in the valley needs less than a demanding route in the mountains. The weather can change quickly, and if you are not constantly moving or need to take a break, warm clothing, for example, is very important.

Here is a general checklist for you:

• Weather-appropriate running clothes for the respective season – weather forecast – region – altitude. These include, among others:
  * a waterproof rain jacket
  * waterproof rain pants suitable for running
  * gloves and warm headwear (cap/headband/neck tube)
  * sunglasses + sunscreen + headwear for very warm days


• Trail running shoes


• Water bottles, soft flasks, or a hydration bladder with enough fluid for the respective route (possibly also salt tablets/magnesium)


• Snacks for an energy boost in between: energy bars, gels, chocolate, trail mix,


• Running backpack: ideally a trail running vest / a trail running backpack or a waist belt for small routes.


• Dry pack: to keep your valuables or change of clothes dry (optionally a small trash bag)


• Emergency blanket


• Small first aid kit. An Israeli bandage is, in my opinion, highly recommended: it is a one-handed operated wound and pressure bandage. Details can be found here.


• Emergency whistle (often integrated into the trail backpack)


• Mobile phone


• Maps (online and/or offline)


• E-Card or insurance card


• Some cash


• Crampons/spikes: these can be a great advantage in winter and icy conditions.


• Folding poles for trail running


• Headlamp

This trail was run for us by André Prinz.