Riding the Niederalpl Pass: Mariazell to Mürzsteg Across the Mürzer Oberland

The Mariazell – Mürzsteg road, commonly referred to as the Niederalpl Pass road, is situated in the Austrian state of Styria. It connects the pilgrimage town of Mariazell with the village of Mürzsteg, crossing the Niederalpl mountain pass at an elevation of 1,221 m (4,006 ft). The route passes through the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park and forms part of the Mürzsteger Alps, a subrange of the Alps. The road is well-known among local motorcyclists for its alpine setting and moderate traffic. An interactive map showing the route can be found at the end of this article.

The Niederalpl Pass road covers approximately 16.4 km (10.2 miles) between Mariazell and Mürzsteg. The route is predominantly wide (about 93%), with the majority of its length offering two lanes (about 81%). The surface is asphalt, with a generally good quality rating, though some sections may show moderate wear. The road is moderately curvy, offering a mix of gently curved and more pronounced bends, but it is not considered extremely twisty. Elevation ranges from 787 m (2,582 ft) at its lowest to 1,233 m (4,045 ft) at its highest point, with the main summit at the Niederalpl Pass. The maximum speed limits along the route are typically 70 km/h (43 mph) and 100 km/h (62 mph), depending on the section. Approximately 45% of the road passes through inhabited areas, providing a balance between open alpine stretches and village environments. The route is suitable for a range of motorcycles, from touring to sport models.

The road traverses the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park, an area known for its diverse flora and fauna, as well as hiking opportunities. The nearby Hohe Veitsch mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Mariazell, at the western end of the route, is famous for its basilica and status as a pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from across Europe. Mürzsteg, at the eastern end, is a small village with traditional Styrian architecture and access to the surrounding alpine landscape. The road also provides access to the broader Alps region, making it a strategic link for longer motorcycle tours.

The Niederalpl Pass road is subject to seasonal closures due to snow and adverse weather conditions, typically during the winter months. The exact closure period can vary depending on snowfall and local maintenance schedules. Motorcyclists are advised to check current road conditions before planning a ride, especially outside the main riding season. There are no known permanent restrictions for motorcycles, but temporary closures may occur due to maintenance or local events. For up-to-date information on road closures and conditions, consult the ASFINAG Traffic Reports.

There is currently no toll or entrance fee required to ride the Niederalpl Pass road. However, toll conditions may change in the future, and it is recommended to verify the latest information before travel. For comprehensive details on tolls and fees for Austrian roads, including updates and exceptions, refer to the ASFINAG Toll Information website. Facilities along the route are limited, so riders should plan fuel and rest stops accordingly, especially outside the main settlements.