The Meßnerin is a relatively infrequently visited flying site nestled in the mountains between Eisenerz and Aflenz in Austria. Despite a forest road that reaches up to 300 meters below the launch site, it is generally not usable for most pilots. Therefore, flying from the Meßnerin typically involves a partially three-hour hike. When conditions are favorable, you are rewarded not only with a magnificent view but also with all-day active and rewarding thermals. Flight The range includes pure glide flights, strong thermals, and cross-country flying. If conditions near the mountain become too turbulent, you can head south over the valley for a calm glide. The scenery is breathtaking both when gaining altitude (view of the Hochschwab massif) and during a simple glide towards the south (view around the "Grüner See"). Difficulty The launch, flight, and landing are generally easy. However, be cautious of thermal releases over the rugged Kamplwand, which can be easily avoided. Expect strong thermals around midday. Walk and Fly Starting point is Tragöss Oberort. There is a very small parking area (about 10 cars) in Haringgraben, approximately 500 meters northeast of the village center. From there, the path leads directly to the summit of the Meßnerin at 1835 meters. Launch: Route Description While the lower part of the hike is not particularly appealing (pure forest), the upper section offers a magnificent backdrop, sometimes with views over the Hochschwab massif or the popular 'Grüner See'. The path from the Haringgraben parking area should be easy to find and poses no difficulties or dangers. Although the launch site is a few hundred meters below the summit, the final flat ascent is well worth it for the view to the north. Alternative Flight Direction As an alternative to a flight towards the south, you can also head north towards the Hochschwab massif. Landing is possible near Gasthof Bodenbauer, about 3 km northeast of the Meßnerin summit (no designated landing site). The return to your vehicle involves a 9 km hike via Bodenbauer, Scheideck, Klamm, Tragöss Oberort, and Haringgraben, which may not be for everyone but is scenically rewarding. A vehicle return from Bodenbauer to Kapfenberg is lengthy and not recommended. Soaring Conditions Soaring is possible over the edge at the launch site south of the summit. Access From Bruck an der Mur, head towards Kapfenberg, then turn left through the Rastal to Tragöss Oberort. Insider Tip From Leoben, take the route through Trofaiach, Rötzgraben, Pichl, and Tragöss Oberort. Note that there are long gravel sections. If you want to protect your vehicle, this route may not be ideal, but it is a nice shortcut from Leoben compared to the much longer route via Bruck an der Mur.