Information
Landmark: Ederbauer WaterfallCity: Zell am See
Country: Austria
Continent: Europe
Ederbauer Waterfall, Zell am See, Austria, Europe
Overview
Just outside the village of Kaprun in Austria’s Salzburg region, the Ederbauer Waterfall tumbles through the Hohe Tauern National Park, its spray catching the sunlight in a fine silver mist.Tucked away from the crowds that flock to Austria’s famous waterfalls, this spot gives you a quiet, breathtaking retreat into the Alps, where you can hear nothing but the rush of water and the whisper of pines.The Ederbauer Waterfall tumbles down in several tiers, dropping a total of about 80 meters-roughly the height of a 25‑story building-before flowing into the Kaprun River, which begins high in the nearby glaciers.Hidden in a forested valley near the village of Kaprun, it’s easy to reach by hiking trails that welcome both casual walkers and seasoned trekkers.All around, jagged peaks rise above thick pine woods and bright alpine meadows swaying in the wind.Tucked inside Hohe Tauern National Park, it sits in untouched wilderness.The waterfall roars brightest in spring and early summer, when snow from the nearby peaks melts into a cold, rushing surge.Even in the summer heat, a light mist hangs in the air, giving the place a quiet, almost magical feel.The Ederbauer Waterfall, tucked along the Ederbauer Trail, rewards hikers with a path through lush alpine meadows and the steady rush of water in the distance.The hike to the waterfall usually begins in the village of Kaprun or from nearby spots in the Kaprun Valley.The trail’s moderate-expect a few steep climbs and patches of loose rock underfoot-but most people with decent fitness can handle it.The trail stretches about 2 to 3 kilometers (1.2 to 1.8 miles) one way, and you can reach the waterfall in roughly 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how often you pause to take in the view-maybe to watch the light glint off the rocks.Nearby, Hohe Tauern National Park offers a chance to spot ibex, marmots, and golden eagles, along with a rich display of alpine wildflowers.Nature lovers will find plenty to explore here, from the Kaprun High Alpine Reservoirs-just a short drive from the waterfall, where turquoise water meets towering dam walls-to nearby Schmittenhöhe Mountain, which offers skiing in winter, summer hikes, and sweeping views of the Alps.Visit in spring or summer for the waterfall at full flow and meadows bursting with wildflowers, in autumn for quiet trails framed by golden leaves, or in winter, when icy cascades and snow-covered paths create a serene, storybook scene.The Ederbauer Waterfall remains a peaceful, less crowded alternative to Austria’s bigger names, perfect for those seeking a closer connection to nature.Perched in a breathtaking spot within the Hohe Tauern National Park, with pine-scented air and sweeping alpine views, it draws hikers, photographers, and anyone craving a quiet escape into nature.
