When is the best time for gorge hiking?

The months of May to October are considered the ideal hiking season. Autumn provides an intense nature experience with its light atmosphere. Please note: Some gorges are closed in winter due to ice formation and the risk of avalanches. It is advisable to check the current opening times before visiting. You can also find a clear summary of the equipment you need in your rucksack and what you should generally look out for when hiking in our article on the rules of conduct when hiking.

Are there guided tours?

Yes, many regions offer guided hikes where experienced guides explain geological features and historical backgrounds, such as in the Ysper gorge or in the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park.

Are the gorges accessible by public transport?

Some gorges, such as the Johannesbach gorge or the 1st Viennese Water Pipeline Trail, are easily accessible by train and bus. The Ötschergräben can also be easily reached by the Mariazell railway.

Which gorges offer special photo opportunities?

Photography enthusiasts will also be impressed by the Ötschergräben with the Mirafall and Lassingfall, which are ideal for nature photography.

Gorges & ravines

Between stone and stream

When water and stone meet, landscapes full of energy are created: Gorges and ravines are formed over thousands of years and tell of natural forces, spiritual stories and sustainable use.

Zwei Wanderinnen überqueren eine Holzbrücke über einen felsigen Bachlauf in einer bewaldeten Schlucht — ©© Niederösterreich Werbung/Gerald Demolsky

Ötschergräben in the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park

The water rushes down into the valley between chalk-white walls: The Ötschergräben are a spectacular spectacle of rock, falls and silence.

Impressive waterfalls such as the 90 metre high Lassingfall and narrow footbridges through the middle of the gorge flanks
The "Ötscher", a legendary mountain with Celtic origins, gives the area a majestic status
Refreshment tip: Ötscher-Basis Wienerbruck

Ysper Gorge in the Southern Waldviertel

Granite, moss and mystical signs: The Ysper Gorge overcomes around 300 metres in altitude over 2 km.

Mysterious rock formations such as the "Sitting Dog" or the "Sphinx" await along the way
Druid meeting point, where Celtic rituals are said to have once taken place
Refreshment tip: Krenn distillery

Johannesbach Gorge in Würflach

Short but impressive: This gorge surprises with its depth, barren rocks and a sea of lights in Advent.

Limestone gorge up to 60 metres deep with bridges, footbridges and varied hiking trails
Refreshingly cool in summer, atmospherically illuminated at the Advent market in winter
Refreshment tip: KlammWirtin

1st Viennese Water Pipeline Trail in the Höllental Valley

Between the Rax and Schneeberg, not only history but also crystal-clear spring water gurgles.

Approx. 4 km long path along the high spring pipeline built in 1873, accompanied by the crystal-clear Schwarza river
Travelling on the historic Höllentalbahn railway combines technological history with an experience of nature
Refreshment tip: Weichtalhaus

Erlauf Gorge near Purgstall

Deeply incised and turquoise-green - the Erlauf carves its wild and romantic way through the conglomerate rock found there.

To pause and savour: From the old romantic bridge, the view falls directly into the gorge
You can hike through the Erlauf Gorge either on the Fischersteig trail running between the rocks and water (sure-footedness required!) or on the circular hiking trail at the Pratersteg bridge
Refreshment tip: Gasthof Teufl

Contact

Erlaufschlucht Purgstall

Marktgemeinde Purgstall

Pöchlarner Straße 17
3251 Purgstall

Phone: +43 7489 271111
Email: tourismus@purgstall.at
Website: www.erlaufschlucht.at

How to get here

Accessible by public transport

Opening hours

Open all year round (except closed in winter if there is ice!)

Steinbach Gorge near Marbach an der Donau

Hidden in the Nibelungengau, this shady gorge offers space for tranquillity, forest, water and light painting for the senses.

Shady path through mossy rocks, wooden walkways and small waterfalls
Circular tour with views of the Danube valley and Alpine foothills
Refreshment tip: Country inn "Zur schönen Wienerin" in Marbach

The romantic Steinbachklamm gorge near Marbach — ©Robert Herbst

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about gorges & ravines

The months of May to October are considered the ideal hiking season. Autumn provides an intense nature experience with its light atmosphere. Please note: Some gorges are closed in winter due to ice formation and the risk of avalanches. It is advisable to check the current opening times before visiting.
You can also find a clear summary of the equipment you need in your rucksack and what you should generally look out for when hiking in our article on the rules of conduct when hiking.

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Gorges & ravines

Between stone and stream

Ötschergräben in the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park

Recommended period

Ysper Gorge in the Southern Waldviertel

Recommended period

Johannesbach Gorge in Würflach

Recommended period

1st Viennese Water Pipeline Trail in the Höllental Valley

Recommended period

Erlauf Gorge near Purgstall

Contact

Erlaufschlucht Purgstall

How to get here

Opening hours

Steinbach Gorge near Marbach an der Donau

Recommended period

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions about gorges & ravines