Krimml Waterfalls

The Krimml Waterfalls are the highest in Austria, where the Krimmler Ache river plunges 380 metres in three great tiers through alpine forest in the High Tauern National Park. A well-made trail with many viewpoints climbs alongside the thundering water, wrapping walkers in cool, mist and, on sunny days, rainbows.

What you actually see

• The three tiers - the great cascade dropping in three thundering stages.
• The waterfall trail - the path with viewpoints climbing beside the falls.
• The spray and rainbows - the cool mist and rainbows on bright days.
• The alpine setting - the forest and mountains of the High Tauern.

When to go

Late spring to autumn, when snowmelt swells the falls and the trail is clear; they are at their most powerful in early summer. The trail closes in winter.

Honest expectations

The full climb beside the falls is a real uphill walk of a couple of hours, so it needs decent shoes and some effort. The spray soaks the closest viewpoints. It is a toll and seasonal, closed in winter.

Nearby

Zell am See and the Grossglockner road are within reach; the High Tauern park spreads around.