Krimml Waterfalls Travel Guide: Explore Austria’s Tallest Cascade

High in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, where glacier-fed streams carve their way through pine-clad valleys, the mighty Krimml Waterfalls plunge down the mountainside in a spectacular display of power and beauty. At 380 meters (1,247 feet) tall, they are not only the highest waterfalls in Austria, but also among the tallest in Europe.
 

As your local tour guide, let me take you on a journey through this breathtaking alpine destination—where roaring water, lush forests, and crisp mountain air combine for an unforgettable adventure.

📍 1. Where Are Krimml Waterfalls?

Location: Near the village of Krimml, Salzburg State, Austria

Region: Hohe Tauern National Park

Elevation: ~1,100 meters above sea level

Coordinates: 47°12′18″N 12°10′00″E

Krimml Waterfalls are situated in the Pinzgau region, close to the Zillertal Alps, and are part of the Krimmler Ache river system that eventually flows into the Salzach River.

🏞️ 2. Why Are Krimml Waterfalls Famous?

The Krimml Waterfalls consist of three tiers of cascading water, making them the tallest stepped waterfalls in Central Europe. They’re more than just a scenic wonder—they’re also:

A highlight of Hohe Tauern National Park, one of Europe’s largest nature reserves

Known for their therapeutic mist, believed to benefit asthma and respiratory health

Accessible via a well-maintained waterfall trail with multiple viewpoints

A UNESCO-certified attraction under the "World of Water" environmental initiative

📷 3. What to Expect: Visitor Experience

Visiting Krimml Waterfalls is an immersive experience—perfect for nature lovers, hikers, families, and photographers.

🌊 The Three Stages of the Falls

Upper Fall (140m) – Starts dramatically from the Krimmler Ache high above.

Middle Fall (100m) – Narrower, rushing down a rugged gorge.

Lower Fall (140m) – Widest and loudest section, creating massive clouds of mist.

Each section is viewable from platforms connected by a 4.15 km (2.6 mi) hiking trail built by the Austrian Alpine Club.

🥾 4. Hiking the Krimml Waterfall Trail

Trail Overview:

Length: 4.15 km (one way)

Elevation gain: ~430 meters

Difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on fitness and stops)

Key Viewpoints (with signposts):

Rainerkogel – First close-up of the upper fall

Schettkanzel – Spectacular middle fall view

Berghof Schönangerl – Highest viewpoint and resting point with café

🌿 Tip: Wear proper hiking shoes and bring a waterproof layer—the mist from the falls is strong even in summer!

🧒 5. Family-Friendly Activities

Krimml isn’t just for hardcore hikers. It’s also a fantastic destination for children and families.

👶 Highlights:

“WasserWelten Krimml” (Water Worlds Krimml): An interactive water museum with fountains, exhibits, and educational games.

Mini-trails: Short walks around the lower section are stroller-accessible.

Observation decks: Safe railings and platforms allow kids to enjoy the view without danger.

🐾 6. Wildlife & Nature Around the Falls

Krimml is part of Hohe Tauern National Park, home to rich biodiversity.

Keep an eye out for:

Golden eagles and alpine choughs

Red deer and marmots

Rare alpine flowers, like edelweiss and alpine roses

This natural paradise is protected, so please stay on marked trails and respect the environment.

🧭 7. Best Time to Visit Krimml Waterfalls

☀️ High Season: May to October

Water flow is strongest in late spring and summer, when snowmelt increases volume.

Early morning or late afternoon offer the best lighting and fewer crowds.

❄️ Winter Visit?

The falls are not officially closed in winter, but the trail is not maintained for snow or ice, making it dangerous. However, views from the base can still be beautiful—especially when frozen into shimmering ice sculptures.

🧪 8. The Healing Power of Krimml’s Mist

Scientific studies (especially by the Paracelsus Medical University in Salzburg) have shown that the negatively charged ions in the mist from Krimml Waterfalls can help:

Improve lung function

Alleviate asthma symptoms

Reduce inflammation

There are even guided “health walks” and multi-day therapeutic visits offered in partnership with local clinics.

🏨 9. Where to Stay Near Krimml Waterfalls

Krimml village and the surrounding area offer excellent lodging options—from alpine chalets to spa hotels.

Recommended Accommodations:

Krimmlerfälle Hotel – Closest to the entrance of the falls, with waterfall views.

Alpengasthof Filzstein – Higher elevation, great for starry night skies and sunsets.

Panorama Hotel Kaserer – Cozy traditional Austrian design, great for families.

⛺ Camping options are also available nearby in Hochkrimml.

🍽️ 10. Where to Eat

After a hike, refueling is a treat!

Top Spots:

Gasthof Schönangerl – Located along the trail; serves hearty Austrian fare and coffee.

WasserWelten Café – Family-friendly and right by the entrance.

Landgasthof Kirchenwirt – In Krimml village, offering authentic local dishes.

🥘 Must-try dishes:

Pinzgauer Kasnocken (cheese dumplings)

Brettljause (cold-cut platter)

Apfelstrudel with vanilla sauce

🎟️ 11. Entrance Fees & Operating Hours

Entrance to the trail:

Adults: ~€5

Children: ~€2

Family passes available

🕒 Open: Typically from late April to late October, weather-dependent.

WasserWelten Krimml:

Separate ticket (~€10 adults, €6 kids)

Open from May to October

🎫 Combo tickets are available for trail + museum.

🚗 12. How to Get to Krimml Waterfalls

🚘 By Car:

From Salzburg: 2.5 hours via B311

From Innsbruck: 2 hours via B165

Parking available at the entrance (paid)

🚆 By Train + Shuttle:

Zell am See → take the Pinzgauer Lokalbahn to Krimml station

Shuttle bus or a 25-minute walk to the falls

🛍️ 13. Souvenirs & Nearby Attractions

Don’t forget to stop by local gift shops for:

Handmade soaps infused with alpine herbs

Miniature waterfall models

Locally produced honey and schnapps

Other Attractions Nearby:

Grossglockner High Alpine Road

Zillertal Arena ski resort

Gerlos Pass scenic drive

📸 14. Photography Tips

Tripod for long exposure waterfall shots

Polarizing filter to reduce mist glare

Golden hour or overcast days for best lighting

Great selfie spots at Schettkanzel and middle fall viewpoint

🧠 15. Fun Facts About Krimml Waterfalls

Featured in multiple documentaries and nature films

First described scientifically in the 18th century

Named one of the Top 10 Waterfalls in Europe

The Krimmler Ache originates from a glacier at 2,500+ meters elevation

💬 Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Krimml Waterfalls

Krimml Waterfalls are more than just a tall cascade—they are a force of nature, a place to reconnect with the wild beauty of the Alps, and a destination that heals both body and spirit. Whether you’re hiking up to the top, breathing in the therapeutic mist, or capturing photos from a scenic platform, this is one experience you won’t soon forget.

From families to solo explorers, Krimml offers a slice of Austria that’s raw, powerful, and profoundly beautiful.