Exploring the Hals Pass: Motorcycling Austria’s Pernitz 3688 Route

The Hals Pass is situated in Lower Austria, within the eastern reaches of the Alps. The road, commonly referred to as Pernitz 3688, begins near the town of Pernitz and follows Pottensteiner Straße, ascending through the Gutensteiner Alps. The route is characterized by its passage through several valleys, including Schärftal, Grabenweggraben, Bischofsgraben, Kaltenleitengraben, and Piestingtal. This region is known for its forested slopes and proximity to the Vienna Basin, making it accessible for day trips from Vienna and other parts of Lower Austria. An interactive map showing the full route of the Hals Pass can be found at the end of this article.

The Pernitz 3688 route covers a distance of approximately 7.6 km (4.7 miles), with elevations ranging from 427 m (1,401 ft) to 665 m (2,182 ft) above sea level. The road surface is asphalt and is generally rated as excellent, providing a smooth ride for most of its length. Riders will encounter a mix of gently curved and moderately twisty sections, making it suitable for both experienced and intermediate motorcyclists. The majority of the road is wide (about 64%), with middle-width sections accounting for 32%, and only a small portion being narrow. Most of the route features one lane in each direction (about 59%), with a minor segment offering two lanes. The road passes through inhabited areas for roughly a quarter of its length, while the remainder traverses forested and mountainous terrain. The maximum speed limits vary between 50, 70, and 100 km/h (31, 43, and 62 mph), depending on the section and proximity to settlements.

The defining feature of this route is the Hals Pass, which reaches an elevation of 662 m (2,172 ft). The pass is a well-known crossing in the Gutensteiner Alps, a subrange of the Eastern Alps. The road’s alignment takes riders through a series of valleys, each contributing to the varied landscape and riding experience. Notably, the Grabenweggraben valley accounts for nearly half of the route’s valley sections, while Schärftal and Kaltenleitengraben also provide distinctive scenery. The combination of mountain and valley riding offers changing views and riding dynamics, with elevation changes and gentle curves dominating the profile. For more information on the region’s geography, see the Alps entry on Wikipedia.

The Hals Pass road is open to motorcycles and is not subject to regular seasonal closures. However, as with many alpine routes, temporary closures may occur due to weather conditions, maintenance, or local events. It is advisable to check local traffic information before planning a ride, especially during winter months when snow or ice may affect accessibility. There are currently no tolls or entrance fees required for motorcycles on this route. Riders should note that toll conditions may change in the future, and it is recommended to consult the ASFINAG website for up-to-date information on road tolls and vignettes in Austria.

The town of Pernitz, located near both the starting and ending points of the route, serves as a convenient base for exploring the area. While the road itself is primarily valued for its riding qualities, the surrounding Gutensteiner Alps offer opportunities for hiking and nature observation. Riders interested in extending their trip may consider visiting the Myrafalls, a series of picturesque waterfalls located a short distance from Pernitz. The region is also known for its traditional Austrian inns and rural landscapes. When planning a ride, ensure your motorcycle is equipped for variable alpine weather, and be mindful of changing road conditions, especially in spring and autumn. For further travel advice, the Lower Austria page on Wikivoyage provides additional resources.