Plattenkogel, also known as Gerlosplatte, is a popular viewpoint summit in the Zillertal Alps, well-visited throughout the year. Its summit was declared a natural monument back in 1933, making it one of the oldest protected sites in the state of Salzburg.

The mountain rises east of the Durlaßboden reservoir, south of the Gerlos Pass and west of the Salzach valley, with Königsleiten and Krimml as the nearest villages. The area is heavily developed for tourism, with a dense network of hiking trails and ski lifts, as Plattenkogel forms part of the well-known Zillertal Arena ski region. In summer, the slopes are covered with alpine rose and dwarf shrub heath, offering a peaceful walk with wide views over the surrounding Zillertal Alps and the Salzach valley. In winter, the mountain becomes a busy part of the ski resort's network of pistes.

How to reach the summit

• Königsleiten — hiking trail network, moderate difficulty
• Krimml — alternative starting point via the Zillertal Arena trail system

Good to know

• The summit itself is protected as a natural monument within a 150 m radius, which is why the ski lifts stop short of the actual peak
• Protected habitats near the summit include alpine rose stands, sedge grassland and dwarf shrub heath

Despite the extensive ski infrastructure surrounding it, the summit area of Plattenkogel has kept its untouched character thanks to its early protection status dating back to 1933.