Krimml Waterfalls: Visiting the highest Waterfalls in Europe
The Krimml waterfalls are located in the province Salzburg in Austria. With a height of 380 meters they are not only the highest waterfalls in Austria, they are also the highest ones in Europe. This amazing natural wonder of Krimml is the absolute highlight of the region and attracts around 350,000 visitors every year. On a hike to the Krimml Waterfalls you will enjoy this thunderous force of nature very closely and have the chance to take breathtakingly beautiful pictures. A must visit for every trip to the “Salzburger Land” in Austria!
In this travel guide we will offer all the information about getting there, opening hours, walking time and parking. In addition, we will show you the most amazing pictures of the waterfalls in Krimml, and what you can experience during a hike.
Hiking Krimml waterfalls
A hike to the Krimml Waterfalls is a magnificent nature experience and because of the different stages also excellent for families with children. For more than 100 years, a wonderful waterfall path has been leading up to the mountain. At a length of 4 kilometres, visitor will enjoy breath-taking waterfall views and lovely places to rest.
The Lower Waterfall
The first stage to the Lower Waterfall, you can reach after only a 10 minutes’ walk. Due to the short walking time the hike is suitable for everyone. Also, this part is one of the most spectacular one with many photo opportunities. Close up you can experience the vast amounts of water mass, which tumble thundering into the valley. The drop here is 140 meters.
If you come with a baby stroller, then you can easily walk down to the lower waterfall. In theory, you could push the buggy all the way up to the upper waterfall, which is really difficult but a few visitors do that.
Tip: As it’s a popular destination, you have to expect high number of visitors. Best time to visit the Krimml Waterfalls is early in the morning (from 7:30 am). At that time of the day you will have all of this natural jewel to yourself!
The huge waterfalls are not only an important attraction, they have also been a natural remedy for more than 200 years. Thus, a holiday at the Krimml Waterfalls can have a positive effect on your health and wellbeing. Especially allergic and asthmatic people appreciate the healing properties of the water mist, which has an anti-inflammatory and cleansing effect.
Every year, incredible 176 cubic meters of water fall down from the Krimml waterfalls. An amount of water that would even be enough to completely fill the whole Zellersee. Most of the water can be seen in the months of July and August, which is also the best travel time! During this time, the ice melt of the catchment area of the Krimmler Arche is the strongest, and thus huge amounts of water make their way down into the valley.
The hike to the middle waterfall
The hike continues with a walking time of half an hour up to the middle waterfall (drop height 100 meters). You have to know that the ascent is a bit steep, but nevertheless due to the many viewpoints and photo stops quite entertaining. So, while hiking you will discover many amazingly beautiful places and with a little luck even a bright rainbow. But beware, depending on the weather and wind you can get a little wet, especially if you walk close to the falls – so do not forget a rain jacket!
After about 40 minutes hiking, you reach the alpine hut Schönangerl, where you can take a break. Near this restaurant there are multiple places where you can go for a swim.
Upper Waterfall
The hiking trail to the upper waterfall (drop height 140 meters) is also fantastically beautiful. From the entrance you can plan for the ascent a walking time of 1 hour 15 minutes, probably a little more. Due to the many beautiful viewpoints, most visitors need a little longer. Those who can`t get enough of hiking, have the possibility to take some routes further from the upper waterfall.
Duration & walking time
The upper waterfall can be expected with a walking time of 1 hour and 15 minutes. The trail requires a certain basic fitness. If you want to continue, you have to walk another half hour to the Veitnalm, the Hölzlahneralm or the Söllnalm. The walk to the Krimmler Tauernhaus for another 1 hour 45 minutes.
For visiting both, the Krimml waterfalls and the Krimmler Water Worlds, one day is the perfect amount of time to enjoy your tour.
Prices & opening hours
The hiking trail is open from mid-April to the end of October. Although the cash desk opens only from 8:00 am, the waterfall is open anytime of the day. The entrance to the Krimml Waterfall costs 4, – Euro per person. Or you buy the combined ticket, which also includes the Krimmler Water Worlds.
Tip: Dogs are allowed on the waterfall path.
Krimml waterfalls in winter
Another possibility is to travel to the Krimml waterfalls in winter. At this time of the year, a visit, especially when the waterfalls are frozen, is highly recommended. Every Wednesday in winter there is a torchlight walk to the waterfall. A really lovely thing, because the waterfall is lit ( until 9:30 pm).
How to get there
- Arriving by car: The waterfalls are usually reached via Zell am See – Kaprun (50 minutes driving time), Zell am Ziller 45 minutes and Kitzbühel with 1 hour driving time. Getting from Salzburg to Krimml Waterfalls takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. From Innsbruck to Krimml Waterfalls it will takes 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Arriving by train: Train ride with the Pinzgauer local train from Zell am See to Krimml train station. Cost per adult around 11, – Euro or with the nostalgia train every Wednesday and Thursday in summer.
Parking is available near the Krimml waterfalls but comes with a fee.
Accommodations & Hotels near the Krimml Waterfalls
Near the Krimml Waterfalls you will find a good selection of accommodations and hotels. We have summarized our hotel tips for an unforgettable holiday here.
- Gasthof Falkenstein: A real highlight is the overnight stay in the Gasthof Falkenstein. From the terrace you have a breath-taking view down to the valley, the mountains and the Krimml waterfall. The breakfast is also yummy.
- Landgasthof Kirchenwirt: A guesthouse run with love, which conjures up an absolute feel-good atmosphere with beautifully furnished rooms and many wooden elements. The waterfalls at Krimml can be reached within walking distance.
- Nationalparkhotel Klockerhaus: Really good hotel with a nice spa area and pond. Breakfast is amazing and especially the dinner is highly recommended.
Find the best Accommodation at Krimml:
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