Krimml Waterfalls

Why this waterfall matters

The Krimml Waterfalls drop 380 metres in three stages, making them Europe’s highest waterfalls. The Krimmler Ache pours down from the high Krimmler Achental into the Pinzgau valley, with the full sequence framed by forest, rock and the mountains of Hohe Tauern National Park.

This is not a single roadside lookout. The point is to move up the waterfall: each section changes the scale, angle and force of the water.

Follow the Waterfall Trail

The Waterfall Trail is a maintained 4.15-kilometre route with about 431 metres of ascent. It rises in switchbacks past viewing platforms and named lookouts.

• Lower waterfall: Reach Kürsingerplatz in 10–15 minutes from the car parks. This is the essential short visit and the closest encounter with the spray.
• Middle section: The climb steepens as the path passes a series of platforms, including Riemann Kanzel and Jung Kanzel.
• Upper waterfall: Allow roughly 1 hour 15 minutes from the lower fall to the top. The trail finishes near Schettkanzel, where the valley opens towards the Krimmler Achental.

Walk back the same way unless continuing on a properly planned hike into the valley. The route is well maintained but is still an uphill mountain walk, not a promenade.

Access and accessibility

Paid car and coach parking is available close to the falls. From the parking areas, the approach to Kürsingerplatz at the lower waterfall is barrier-free and has accessible toilets. It is the right choice for visitors who want the waterfall without the ascent.

The upper trail is a different proposition: steep switchbacks, sustained climbing and wet surfaces near the falls. Wear shoes with reliable grip. A light waterproof layer is useful even in clear weather; the lower cascade throws substantial spray across nearby viewpoints.

The trail is generally open continuously from 1 May to the end of October and requires a path-use fee. Outside that season, do not assume the upper route is accessible.

Timing the visit

Early summer brings the strongest flow, when snowmelt and rain feed the Krimmler Ache. Expect more spray and a louder, more forceful lower fall. Later in the season, the volume can be lower but the route remains a serious climb.

Give the full ascent and return several hours if you want to use the viewpoints rather than rush through them. For a compact visit, go directly to Kürsingerplatz; it delivers the lowest tier without committing to the climb.

Getting there

Krimml is reached by road through the Pinzgau valley. Public transport also connects via Zell am See, with the final approach by bus or, depending on service, the Pinzgau local railway. The bus stop and parking are beside the Krimml Worlds of Water near the waterfall approach.

The water-themed visitor centre is separate from the falls but offers a combination ticket that includes the Waterfall Trail and parking at its P4 car park.