Vorderglemm: Valley Trails, Alpine Pasture Loop and Trails

Vorderglemm can be explored in many different ways: a flat winter walk follows the stream, while the Vorderglemm Alpine Pasture Loop starts on asphalt and later climbs uphill on gravel into the alpine pasture region. Mountain bike trails also offer their own distinctive experiences. When planning your holiday, it is worth first considering which of these activities you would like to shape your stay. You can then search for a holiday apartment based on the activities that matter to you.

Hiking: from Jausern up into the alpine pasture region

The SH 32 Vorderglemm Alpine Pasture Loop runs from its starting point by the Schattberg X-Press along the Glemmtal cycle path to Jausern. The route starts on asphalt and later climbs uphill on gravel into the alpine pasture region. It passes the Rachkuchl and the mid-station of the Schönleitenbahn. Just below its highest point, it reaches an altitude of 1,700 metres. As you gain height, impressive views open up over the upper Glemmtal.

The loop offers two options for additional detours: to the Schönleitenhütte and to the Wildenkarkogel. The detour to the Schönleitenhütte connects with the Saalfelden Leogang mountain bike network. The hut is open seasonally. On the descent, the route winds down to the valley floor in numerous hairpin bends via the Thurneralm and Bergeralm.

Winter loop, circular route or return along the same trail

The S03 Saalach Promenade is described as a pleasant, flat winter walk. It runs for about 4 kilometres along the stream to Jausern in Vorderglemm. In its terrain and season, it differs from the uphill Alpine Pasture Loop. If you are weighing up different plans, this information offers a practical comparison: a valley walk by the stream or a climb into the alpine pasture region.

The S01 Sonnseit Promenade also offers a distinct route to follow: it is a circular hiking trail that crosses the bridge by the Schönleitenbahn and continues to Jausern after descending to the main road. From there, you can take the bus back to Saalbach; check seasonal bus services before planning. The J01 Jauser Alm climbs uphill to the alpine pasture and then returns to the starting point along the same trail. The route descriptions make it easy to distinguish a circular walk from a tour that retraces its uphill route on the way back.

Trails and orientation at the Schönleitenbahn

There are also different trail descriptions for mountain bike enthusiasts. The natural Wildenkaramba Line has an unmodified surface, roots, small stones and tight turns. By contrast, the ScheeLeitn Line on the Schönleiten features shaped berms, rollers and jumps, making for a rhythmic trail. The two descriptions highlight differences in surface and trail layout; conditions and trail configurations may change.

The Schönleitenbahn I+II has a ride length of 2,767 metres and an elevation difference of 968 metres; its operating times are seasonal. There is an open-air car park at its valley station. As parking rules and times may change, it is advisable to check them before travelling.

Agricultural history and regional change

The history of the municipality of Saalbach, including Vorderglemm and Hinterglemm, links rural life with the later changes brought about by skiing. Historically, the municipality was a poor farming community before skiing ushered in economic change. In the wider Saalbach region, including Vorderglemm and Hinterglemm, the ski terrain is associated with the Pinzgau Grass Mountains.

A specific insight into local agriculture was offered by the Vorderglemm sheep drive: it was scheduled for 19 September 2026 from 3 pm at the “Heimat” inn in Saalbach. The sheep were to return to their farms at Teuererhof and Hochwarthof in Vorderglemm. This date refers to the scheduled event, not a confirmed annual recurrence.

Choose a holiday apartment to suit your plans

When choosing a holiday apartment in Vorderglemm, you can start with the activities you want to be at the heart of your holiday: perhaps a flat winter loop by the stream, a tour with a climb and optional detours, or a day on the trails described here. The different routes and landscapes give you concrete points of reference for organising your travel plans and finding a suitable base for your stay.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Piesendorf, Großsonnberg, Rain, Hintermoos, Almdorf, Maishofen, Leogang, Lofer.

To the higher-level travel overview: Zell Am See.