Krimmler Waterfalls

There are places where you don’t just see the power of nature, you truly feel it. The Krimml Waterfalls (Krimmler Wasserfälle) are exactly that kind of place. Thundering down over three tiers across 380 meters, they are the largest waterfalls in Europe, located right in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. The drive from the Rauriserhof takes you on a beautiful route through the Salzach Valley, leading to a day you will remember for a long time. It is the perfect excursion for anyone wanting to experience the most powerful side of the Salzburg region.

Up Close and Personal: The Historic Waterfall Trail

The wonderful thing about Krimml is just how close you can get to the rushing waters. The waterfall trail (Wasserfallweg), which the Alpine Club created back in 1901, winds its way upward in gentle switchbacks directly alongside the three tiers of falls. Viewing platforms open up along the route, letting you stand just a few meters away from the roaring torrents and feel the fine, cool spray mist on your face.

The trail can easily be broken down into stages, depending on your preference and fitness level:

• The Lower Waterfall: Easily reached in about 10 to 15 minutes from the parking lot. The path to the lowest viewing platform at Kürsingerplatz is fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs—this is where the massive bottom tier plunges into the valley.
• The Middle and Upper Waterfalls: For the complete hike up to the highest viewing platform, expect to walk uphill for about an hour. Once at the top, sweeping views looking down into the valley and crisp, clear mountain air await as your reward.

💡 Health Tip from the Rauriserhof: The mist at the falls is more than just refreshing. Studies conducted by the Paracelsus Medical Private University in Salzburg (as part of the "Hohe Tauern Health" project) have shown that the fine aerosols, naturally charged with negative air ions, can significantly relieve the respiratory tract. During the research, clear, measurable improvements in lung function were found in individuals with asthma and allergies. So go ahead and take a few minutes on the viewing platforms to breathe in deeply. It really does you good.

Well Planned: Practical Tips for Your Day in Krimml

• Season: The waterfall trail is open during the warmer months from early May to the end of October. The falls are at their most impressive in early summer, when the melting snow causes the volume of water to swell to its absolute maximum.
• Gear: Even if the sun is shining down in the valley, it is often noticeably cooler and damp near the falls due to the wind and spray. A windproof and waterproof jacket or a rain poncho, along with sturdy shoes featuring non-slip soles, will ensure a relaxed climb.
• Time: You should budget at least three to four hours on-site to account for the hike, photo stops, and stopping for a bite to eat.

The Ticket Tip: The Combo Ticket

The visitor center of the Krimmler WasserWelten is located right at the entrance to the falls. Our tip: pick up the combo ticket (Kombiticket) at the ticket counter. It combines the entry fee for the waterfall trail with admission to the interactive WasserWelten museum, and it also covers the parking fee at parking lot P4—giving you everything in one go so you don't have to queue twice.

You can easily turn this drive into a full day of exploration. These destinations pair beautifully with a visit to the waterfalls:

• Krimmler WasserWelten: This modern experience center sits right at the foot of the falls. Featuring an outdoor aqua park, the "Aquaszenarium" underwater exhibition, and a viewing terrace equipped with 3D telescopes, it is a playful, entertaining stop—especially for families.
• Gerlos Alpine Road: If you want to extend your driving tour, head up the scenic panoramic road (Gerlos Alpenstraße) towards the Zillertal in Tyrol. The road hugs the mountainside and rewards you with views of the waterfalls from a spectacular bird's-eye perspective.
• National Park Worlds Mittersill: This large, interactive National Park museum is located directly along your route—making it the ideal stopover on the way back or a perfect alternative on a rainy day.

Getting From Rauris to Krimml

Traveling by car is straightforward, and the route itself is a scenic delight. From the Hotel Rauriserhof, follow the Rauriser Landesstraße (L112) out of the valley until you reach Taxenbach. From there, turn onto the Pinzgauer Straße (B311) and drive straight through the Salzach Valley via Mittersill all the way to Krimml (B165). The distance is roughly 85 kilometers, which takes a comfortable 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive, look for parking lots P4 or P5—these offer the shortest walking distance to the falls.

Back to the Warmth of the Rauriserhof

After a refreshing day by the water, there is nothing quite like returning to the Rauriserhof for the evening. Reflect on the day's highlights in the sauna, swim a few relaxed laps in the pool, and take your time enjoying our dinner menu. It is the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable day of discovery in the Salzburg region.