Why Krimml belongs on your bucket list
Krimml Waterfalls plunge a total of ~380–385 meters in three dramatic tiers, making them Austria’s highest falls and among Europe’s most powerful alpine spectacles.
A meticulously built waterfall trail hugs the gorge, serving up misty viewpoints, rainbow photo-ops, and a steady cardio climb into the pristine Krimmler Achental valley.
Expect thundering water, fir-scented forest, and the kind of crisp spray that turns a regular hike into a full-sensory wake-up.
1) Krimml Waterfall Hiking Status (2025)
Seasonal status.
The official Waterfall Trail (Wasserfallweg) is open continuously from mid-April to the end of October, with fee required.
Outside this window, the maintained viewing trail is closed, though the lower area/roads may still be accessible; plan your main hike for the official season.
Daily access. During the season, the Waterfall Trail itself is open all day (i.e., you can start early to beat crowds) even though the adjacent visitor attraction (Krimml “Worlds of Water”) has its own set opening hours (more below).
Trail facts.
- Length: 4.15 km (one way on the waterfall trail)
- Elevation gain: ~431 m
- Time: ~1 hr 15 min from the lowest to the upper falls (not counting photo stops)
- Build: well-paved/serpentine path with numerous viewing platforms and named “Kanzel” viewpoints
These specs come straight from the official site.
Accessibility notes. The approach from the car parks to Kürsingerplatz at the lowest fall is barrier-free (wheelchair-friendly path and accessible toilets).
Most higher sections are steep and not suitable for strollers/wheelchairs.
Pets. Dogs are commonly seen on leash; be mindful of the spray, steep grades, and crowd density at viewpoints (check on-site signage for any temporary rules).
Conditions snapshot. Hikers regularly report the path as well maintained with good facilities; summer weekends are busy.
(Condition reports vary, but recent hiker summaries align with the “good trail, good views, easy to park” pattern.)
2) How to Get There (Car, Train & Bus, Tours)
By car
Krimml village (postal code 5743) lies in SalzburgerLand near the Tirol border.
- From Salzburg (city): ~2.5–3 hours (A10 → Pinzgau region via B311 to Zell am See → B165 Gerlos Straße toward Krimml).
- From Innsbruck: ~1.5–2 hours (A12 → Zillertal exit → B169 Zillertalstraße → Gerlos Pass B165 → Krimml).
- Parking: Multiple paid car parks near the falls; P4 sits right by the Krimml Worlds of Water complex (very convenient if you’re also visiting the exhibits).
By public transport (2025 status)
This is absolutely doable and scenic.
- Train to Zell am See (ÖBB from Salzburg/Innsbruck/Munich connections).
- Pinzgauer Lokalbahn: Historically runs Zell am See ↔ Krimml; following 2021 storm damage, trains currently run only Zell am See ↔ Niedernsill, with rail-replacement buses onward to Krimml. Check the current timetable and ride straight through with the linked rail/bus combo.
- Regional bus: Travelers frequently ride Bus Line 670 from Mittersill to Krimml when coming off the train segment. Recent trip reports confirm this route is smooth and straightforward.
Why go by rail/bus? The Pinzgauer Lokalbahn follows the Salzach river through alpine meadows with hourly departures and ~53 km of classic valley scenery.
Even with the bus segment, it’s a relaxed, car-free day trip.
Guided tours
If you want a private driver/guide from Salzburg, door-to-door full-day options exist seasonally (mid-April to mid-October).
Handy if you’re short on time or prefer not to navigate transfers.
3) Best Time to Visit
Seasonality (macro).
The maintained Waterfall Trail runs mid-April through late October. If you’re planning hut hikes or higher alpine traverses beyond the falls (e.g., panorama stages), many high routes in the Hohe Tauern are not suitable from November–April due to snow and seasonal closures; late spring can still hold snow higher up.
Water volume (flow). Flow peaks in late spring to midsummer (snowmelt), especially May–July, delivering maximum thunder/mist and rainbow potential.
Late season (Sept–Oct) is calmer and crisper with autumn color. (General quick-info corroborates the Waterfall Trail’s open window.)
Time of day.
- Early morning: coolest temps, soft light, minimal crowds.
- Late afternoon to golden hour: warmer color, excellent long-exposure photos, and crowds thinning.
- Midday on sunny days: can produce rainbows in the spray; expect peak visitor numbers.
Week timing. Weekdays are quieter than weekends; avoid peak festival dates in the region if you want fewer people around.
Weather micro-tips. Krimml’s gorge channels wind; bring a light shell even in July. The mist can soak you faster than you expect near viewing platforms pack a lens cloth and a dry bag.
4) Opening Times & Tickets (2025)
Waterfall Trail (viewing path):
- Open: continuously mid-April to end of October
- Daily access: open all day during season (start early if you like)
- Fee required (see prices below)
- Barrier-free access to Kürsingerplatz (lower falls) from the car parks; accessible toilets available.
Tickets / Prices (2025):
- Waterfall Trail road-usage fee (path maintenance): Adults €9.00; Children 6–15 €4.50
- Combination ticket (Krimml Worlds of Water + Waterfall Trail + parking at P4): Adults €15.50; Children 6–15 €7.70
(Combo available at the Worlds of Water ticket office.)
Krimml Worlds of Water (visitor attraction next to P4):
- Season 2025: roughly 1 May–29 October (see official page)
- Hours typically: 09:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30)
Always verify the exact date range and hours around shoulder season and special events.
5) Where to Stay (Smart Bases & Styles)
You can overnight in Krimml village for doorstep access, or choose a hub town with broader amenities and straightforward connections.
Closest base: Krimml
- Why stay here: Walkable to the trailhead, quiet alpine vibe, swift sunrise/sunset access to the lower falls.
- Good for: Families, photographers wanting dawn/dusk, anyone aiming to add the Krimmler Achental valley or Krimmler Tauernhaus to their hike plan. (The Achental is one of the longest valleys in the national park and a classic extension beyond the falls.)
Bigger hubs with easy access
- Zell am See: lakeside resort ambience, frequent trains, plentiful dining; pair Krimml with Kitzsteinhorn or Schmittenhöhe on a longer stay.
- Mittersill / Neukirchen am Großvenediger: authentic Pinzgau towns on the transport corridor; shorter onward bus ride to Krimml.
- Gerlos / Zillertal side (Tirol): perfect if you’re coming via Innsbruck/Zillertal—drive across the Gerlos Pass for a scenic approach.
Lodging styles to look for
- Family-run Gasthäuser & Pensionen: homey breakfast spreads, easy logistics.
- Spa hotels / alpine resorts: for post-hike sauna time.
- Mountain huts (for extensions): Krimmler Tauernhaus up the Achental valley if you’re planning a hut-to-hut or a long day with dinner in the mountains (book ahead in high season). (Huts are managed and seasonal; check availability.)
6) Trail Guide: Exactly How to Hike Krimml Waterfalls
Fast orientation
- Start: Car parks near Krimml (follow signs to P4 for Worlds of Water) → Kürsingerplatz (lower falls)
- Route: Waterfall Trail (Wasserfallweg)—built in 1900, paved/serpentine, with signed viewpoints (“Kanzeln”) all the way to the upper fall; continue into Krimmler Achental for valley meadows if you have time.
- Distance/Gain: 4.15 km one way, ~431 m ascent to the upper tier (~1:15 moving time without stops; realistically 2–3 hours with photos and breaks).
Segment-by-segment (classic ascent)
A) Car parks → Kürsingerplatz (Lower Fall base)
- Time: 10–15 min
- Notes: Barrier-free approach; great family vantage. Prepare for intense spray stash electronics accordingly. This is where you’ll feel the sheer power at eye level.
B) Kürsingerplatz → Lower to Middle Fall Platforms
- Trail: The path begins its zigzag climb; you’ll hit regular lookouts marked by plaques (e.g., Riemann-Kanzel, Sendtner-Kanzel, Jung-Kanzel) offering different angles on the cascade and valley. Expect heart-rate-raising ramps, stout railings, and frequent benches.
C) Middle Fall zone (Schönangerlboden)
- Time to here from start: ~45–60 min with photos
- Why stop: The Gasthaus Schönangerl has long been a classic refreshment stop; it’s a natural breather before the final climb. The middle tier drops ~100 m and often blasts a sideways mist—go for a quick lens wipe and enjoy the thunder.
D) Middle → Upper Fall & Top Out
- Time from middle to upper: ~20–30 min
- Highlights: The higher you go, the more panoramic the valley views become. On sunny days, look for rainbows arcing through the spray from the upper walkways. The upper tier is ~140 m; from here, you can roll gently into the Krimmler Achental if you want to turn the waterfall visit into a half-day valley walk.
E) Optional extension: Krimmler Achental meadows
- Why do it: Quieter trails, glacier-fed river scenes, grazing cattle, full alpine serenity. Turn around at any time or continue to a hut if you’ve planned a longer day.
Descent & loop options
- Direct descent the same way (most common).
- Old Tauernweg loop: Confident hikers sometimes craft a loop with the Alter Tauernweg, blending riverbank strolling and forest single-track (allow ~3–3.5 hrs; 1,500+ ft gain). Always confirm conditions and signage in person.
Family, photo & pace tips
- Pack a light waterproof and microfiber cloth for spray.
- For long exposures, bring a mini tripod and shoot from platforms with railings use rail as a brace if needed.
- With kids, make Kürsingerplatz your main target plus one or two higher platforms; promise ice cream or hot chocolate at the café near the base.
Safety & etiquette
- Railings are there for a reason stick to marked platforms.
- Surfaces can be slick from mist; wear grippy shoes even in high summer.
- Drones: check local rules; expect strict limitations in national parks.
- Carry out what you carry in; the gorge is sensitive habitat.
One Perfect Day at Krimml (Sample Itinerary)
07:45 Park at P4 or arrive on the first bus; use the quiet early hour to enjoy the lower fall viewpoints almost to yourself.
08:15–09:45 Steady climb, stopping at each Kanzel (viewpoint). Hydrate and snack; embrace the mist.
10:00 Schönangerl break (coffee & cake).
10:30–11:00 Final push to the upper fall; celebrate at the top.
11:00–12:00 Optional saunter into Krimmler Achental (meadows, picnic, photos).
12:30–13:30 Descend, with a few last photo stops (light angles change on the way down).
Afternoon Visit Krimml Worlds of Water (interactive water science), then late lunch in Krimml village. Worlds of Water typically runs 09:00–17:00 with last entry 16:30 (seasonal).
Practicalities & Packing
Footwear: Grippy hiking shoes; sandals aren’t ideal on wet stone.
Layers: Even in July, gorge air is cool; a compact shell helps with wind and spray.
Water & snacks: Carry a bottle; cafés exist but spacing is variable.
Protection: Sunglasses (glare), sunblock, hat; mist can reflect sun.
Camera care: Use lens hood/cloth; stash gear in a dry bag between shots.
Cash/card: Bring both for parking, tickets, and huts/cafés (card acceptance varies).
Trash: No alpine litter—pack it out.
Photography Cheatsheet
- Golden hour: Warm tones on rock faces; fewer people in frame.
- Midday sun + spray: Peak rainbow chances near lower and middle platforms.
- Long exposure: 1/4–1 sec for silky flow (ND filter helps on bright days).
- Compositions: Include railings/platforms as leading lines; use people for scale; shoot up-valley from higher turns to frame the river and forest.
- Weather drama: Cloud layers and drizzle can add mood keep the cloth handy.
Add-Ons & Nearby Highlights
- Zell am See (lakeside strolls, boat rides) pairs naturally with Krimml on a 2–3 day break.
- Gerlos Alpine Road: a gorgeous drive if you’re arriving/leaving via Tirol.
- Hohe Tauern Panorama Trail: A multi-stage long-distance route that actually starts at Krimml Waterfalls and traverses to Hüttschlag—tempting if you’re coming back for a longer trek.
Costs at a Glance (2025)
- Waterfall Trail fee: Adults €9.00; Children (6–15) €4.50.
- Combo (Worlds of Water + Trail + P4 parking): Adults €15.50; Children €7.70.
- Worlds of Water hours (typical): 09:00–17:00; last entry 16:30; season roughly May–late Oct (check the exact current dates before you go).
FAQs
Is the trail suitable for beginners?
Yes—it’s steep but well-paved with constant viewpoints and benches. Allow plenty of time and pace yourself.
Can I visit outside the main season?
The official trail is maintained and fee-based mid-April to end-October. Beyond that, expect winter closure of the maintained path; check local updates if you’re in the area off-season.
Can I do this car-free?
Absolutely. Take ÖBB to Zell am See, then Pinzgauer Lokalbahn to Niedernsill and the rail-replacement bus on to Krimml (or Bus 670 from Mittersill). Verify the day’s timetable.
How long should I plan?
A relaxed half-day for the falls alone; full day if you add Worlds of Water and/or a stroll into Krimmler Achental.
Where are the best views?
Don’t miss Kürsingerplatz at the base (power + spray), the middle fall platforms around Schönangerl, and upper-trail bends for panoramic valley shots.
Responsible Visiting
- Stay on marked paths and platforms; the gorge is fragile.
- Keep noise low; wildlife and other hikers appreciate it.
- Support local cafés and family-run stays—your euros help maintain the trail and community.
- If you bring a drone, confirm regulations; in most national-park contexts, restrictions apply.
Quick Reference (Pin & Print)
- Season (Waterfall Trail): mid-April → end of October; open all day; fee required.
- Trail stats: 4.15 km one way; ~431 m ascent; ~1:15 moving time (without stops).
- Tickets 2025: Waterfall Trail €9 adult / €4.5 child; Combo (Worlds of Water+Trail+P4) €15.5 adult / €7.7 child.
- Worlds of Water hours: typically 09:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30), May–late Oct.
- Public transport: ÖBB → Zell am See → Pinzgauer Lokalbahn (to Niedernsill) + replacement bus to Krimml; or Bus 670 via Mittersill.
Conclusion
Krimml is one of those rare places where the infrastructure perfectly serves the wild: a century-old trail that safely threads along a roaring, 380-meter cascade, with viewpoints that never feel repetitive and a valley beyond that invites you to keep walking.
Time your visit for the official season, start early, layer for spray, and let the Waterfall Trail do the work of showcasing Austria’s most spectacular falls.
Whether you base yourself in Krimml for doorstep access or ride the scenic Pinzgau railway-bus combo for a car-free day, you’ll come away with mist-damp hair, a full camera roll, and that alpine clarity that lingers long after you’re back home.
