Hiking Sigmund Thun Gorge | Kaprun – Zell am See
The Sigmund Thun Gorge is located near the village Kaprun in Austria and is one of the most beautiful nature attractions in the holiday region around Zell am See. Although the gorge has only a length of 320 meters, it’s not less spectacular and very worth seeing. There is a lot to discover on a hike through Sigmund Thun Klamm. Wooden footbridges lead past mighty cliffs, foaming waterfalls, and striking rock formations. All the time, visitors admire the roaring whitewater of the Kapruner Ache. A wonderful place to visit that you should definitely not miss in Zell am See.
In this travel guide we will show you what to expect during a hike in Sigmund Thun Klamm. In addition, we provide information and tips about opening hours, prices & tickets and parking.
Hiking through the Sigmund Thun Gorge
The hike through Sigmund Thun Klamm starts directly at the ticket office at the power plant. Immediately, just after getting started you can enjoy a stunning, beautiful ambience. Over a wooden bridge, a scenic hike starts into the gorge. Passing by the roaring waters, you march up the rugged wooden ridges and enjoy a unique view of the narrow gorge. Especially in summer, hiking through the Sigmund-Thun gorge is a pleasurable thing to do, because when it is hot and scorching, the gorge remains cool.
Visiting the Sigmund Thun Gorge is possible at all weathers, whether it’s rainy or the sun is shining. A bit of rain often makes the gorge experience even more beautiful and mystical. Therefore, this tourist attraction is also suitable if you are having bad weather. Due to the fact that the gorge is not very long, the hike is also suitable for families with children or people who can’t walk long distances. Sporty people would probably call the route through the gorge a walk rather than a hike.
During the trail, there are countless amazing viewpoints, where you can stop and admire the vast nature spectacle. Perfect for those who love taking pictures.
Up to a depth of 32 meters, the Kapruner Ache has made its way through the gorge, forming striking rock formations, smoothing and potholes. With a bit of imagination, you will discover the gorge ghost or the famous gorge witch, who say goodbye to their visitors at the end of the gorge.
Tip: Make sure you take some warm clothes with you, because inside the gorge it is much cooler than outside.
Duration of the hike
Depending on your breaks, walking time through the gorge is between 15-30 minutes. A hike around the reservoir takes another 30 minutes. For a trip to Sigmund Thun Klamm incl. breaks and a visit to the beautiful reservoir, you can plan a leisurely half day excursion.
The Gorge-Lake
Once you reach the top, the next highlight is already waiting for you: The panorama of the beautiful Gorge-Lake with the surrounding mountains. This reservoir has amazing turquoise blue colors and is a popular place for taking a break. Swimming at the Gorge-Lake is not allowed, but the river next to the lake offers a wonderful refreshment.
If you fancy, expand the hike and take the 1.8-kilometer circular walk around the lake, or make your way to up the alpine hut Schneckenreith, which offers delicious homemade cheese, bacon and butter.
The Gorge-Trail is a circular route and you will have to take a forest path back to the parking lot. Once more, from a high bridge you will have a magnificent view of the Sigmund Thun gorge.
Special events
In summer, Sigmund Thun Klamm offers a few real remarkable evening events. There is, for example, every Monday at 8:00 pm “The Night of Water” where you can join a torchlight walk through the gorge. Highly recommended is also the event “Klammlichter” – “Gorge-Lights”, which takes place every Friday and where the gorge is lit up wonderfully.
Opening hours & prices
The Sigmund-Thun Gorge opens from mid-May to mid-October from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. In summer (July & August) the gorge is open until 19:00.
The entrance to the gorge costs 6, – Euro per person. Owners of the Zell am See – Kaprun Card or the SalzburgerLand Card get a free admission to this attraction.
Tip: Especially recommended is a visit, right in the early morning from 8:30 clock. At this time, the gorge is really mystical, and even in the main season you will have this natural jewel almost all to yourself.
Arrival & Parking
You can get to Sigmund Thun Klamm either by own car or by bus 660 (exit Tauernplatz). The gorge is about 15 minutes away from Zell am See. From Kaprun the gorge can be reached within walking distance. Parking is free here.
Conclusion: We really enjoyed our excursion and the hike through the Sigmund Thun Klamm. It was surprising that in such a short distance walk, you can experience so many beautiful things. For us, a visit to this natural wonder should not be missed on any trip to Zell am See!
Find the best Accommodation & Hotels at Zell am See:
More about Zell am See & Salzburg:
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Zell am See in Austria: A Travel Guide
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Krimml Waterfalls: Visiting the highest Waterfalls in Europe
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20 Best Things To Do in Salzburg, Austria
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Wolfgangsee: Mountain, culture & lake experience in Austria
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