The enormous Kaprun Dams (Hochgebirgsstauseen Kaprun) were built as part of an ambitious plan to create a hydroelectric power station at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters above sea level. Today, the energy company Verbund owns the power station, which attracts many visitors in the Salzburg region.
The Story Behind the Construction of the Kaprun Dams
Construction of the Kaprun Dams began in 1938 under the Nazis, who forced thousands of prisoners, including many Jews, to work under harsh conditions. The lower dam, Wasserfallboden (1,672 m), partially powered a small station by 1944. After the war, the prisoners were liberated and construction paused, resuming in 1947. The first dam’s massive Limberg Wall (Limbergsperre), 120 m high and 350 m long, was completed in 1951.
The second, upper dam, Mooserboden (2,030 m), was built over five years, with a wall 107 m high and 500 m long. The two dams are connected by a 12-kilometer canal.
Today, they generate about 700 kilowatt-hours annually, supplying electricity to the Salzburg region, while their scale and stunning mountain views make them a major tourist attraction.
A Memorable Visit to the Kaprun Dams
The journey to the Kaprun Dams begins in the town of Kaprun, through the Kaprun Valley, to Kesselfall Alpenhaus, where you will find free parking and ticket offices. From there, a bus takes visitors to the Lächwand Lift, Europe’s largest open-air inclined lift, which ascends about 800 meters to the lower dam. Another bus continues to the upper dam. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy a scenic walking trail between Fürthermoar Alm and Bergrestaurant Mooserboden.
The upper dam is the main attraction, offering stunning views and a visitor center with exhibits on the dams’ history and technology. A gentle walking path runs along the dam, and an optional guided hour-long tour departs from the kiosk for an additional fee.
For climbing enthusiasts, there are via ferrata routes available in the dam area. Also, not far from the visitor center, there’s a beautiful hill from which you can overlook the dams from above and enjoy an absolutely amazing view.
This is what the stunning View in the Dam Area looks like
Additional Essential Information for Your Visit
Important Notes:
- Weather Check: It’s highly recommended to check the weather conditions and visibility before heading to the dam to avoid arriving in heavy fog. You can get updates by viewing the camera installed on-site.
- Webcam: View the camera.
Opening Times: May 26th to October 12th.
- May, June, September, and October: Daily from 8:10 AM to 4:45 PM. Last ascent towards the dam at 3:00 PM.
- July, August: Daily from 8:10 AM to 5:00 PM. Last ascent towards the dam at 3:00 PM.
Guided Tours:
- Depart daily between 10:00 AM and 3:15 PM, every 45 minutes.
Bus Schedule:
- There is no fixed timetable for the buses traveling between the dams. Buses operate continuously throughout the day to minimize waiting times. Please note that it takes approximately 45 minutes from the entrance to the complex to reach the dams themselves.
Costs:
Round-trip Ticket:
- Adult: €38
- Child (6-15 years): €21
- Child (up to 5 years): Free
- Family ticket: €97
Guided Tour:
- Adult: €11
- Child (6-15 years): €7
- Child (up to 5 years): Free
Parking:
Free parking lot near the ticket offices. It is not possible to drive your car up to the dam. You must park in the free parking lot at: Kesselfallstraße 98, 5710 Kaprun.
Official Website
Address: Kesselfallstrasse 96, 5710 Kaprun
Map:
Additional fantastic attractions located a short drive from the dam area include:
- Kitzsteinhorn Glacier
- Sigmund Thun Gorge and Klammsee Lake
- Kaprun Adventure Park and Mountain Slide
- Lake Zell
