Liechtenstein Gorge – General Information
In the heart of the state of Salzburg, about an hour south of the city of Salzburg, lies the town of St. Johann im Pongau. At the entrance to the Grossarl Valley nearby is the Liechtenstein Gorge (Liechtensteinklamm), one of the deepest and longest natural canyons in the Alpine region—a truly unique and spectacular natural wonder.
For many years, the gorge remained private until local residents opened it to visitors in 1875. The Pongau Alpine Association began building the trail but soon faced financial trouble. Prince Johann II of Liechtenstein stepped in with a generous donation, allowing construction to continue and the path to be completed and opened in 1876. As a token of gratitude for the prince’s generous contribution, the name of the river channel was changed from Grossarler Gorge to Liechtenstein Gorge.
You have to experience what locals call “nature’s theater”—a breathtaking site that has drawn more than 10 million visitors from around the world.
This is what Liechtenstein Gorge looks like
Walk through drifting water mist beside towering, vegetation-covered rock walls, accompanied by the roar of the rushing river. On sunny days, sunlight breaking through the spray often creates colorful rainbows, adding to the dramatic atmosphere.
The Liechtenstein Gorge stretches about 4 kilometers in total, though only 1.5 kilometers are open to visitors. The trail is safe and mostly made up of wooden platforms anchored to rock walls that rise nearly 300 meters high, with sections passing through tunnels carved directly into the stone.
In some sections, the canyon narrows to just a few meters wide, leading to a powerful and spectacular waterfall at the end. Near the far end of the trail, before heading back to the entrance, you’ll find tables and benches—perfect for photos or a light meal beside the falls.
The walk on the trail is not difficult; there are stairs and wooden platforms with railings. The trail is safe, well-maintained, and protected to the highest standard.
Due to the power of the river and the narrowness of the gorge, you should come prepared to get wet from the water spray that splashes everywhere. On a hot summer day, this is a refreshing and enjoyable experience for children and parents alike.
The leisurely walk in one direction takes about 45 minutes. The trail is not accessible for strollers as there are many stairs along it.
At the end of the walk, you can rest and refresh yourself at the inn located at the entrance to the trail.
Additional Essential Information for Your Visit
After a long period during which the gorge was closed, it has reopened to visitors!
Operating Times:
From the beginning of May until the end of September, every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Throughout the month of October, the trail is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Please note: In case of very rainy weather, the trail may be closed due to fear of floods. Please check before arriving.
We recommend that you come with good, closed hiking shoes and nylon jackets if you do not want to get wet. In September and October, it is advisable to come with warmer clothing.
Costs:
Please note: The prices for booking in advance through the official website are cheaper than the prices at the ticket office!
- Online Ticket Adult: €14 / Ticket on Arrival: €15
- Online Ticket Child (6 to 18): €7 / Ticket on Arrival: €8.50
Official Website
How to get to the Liechtenstein Gorge?
The best way to get to the trail is by car. There is easy access to the entrance of the trail. At the entrance to the trail, there are several parking lots for visitors.
The hiking trail is located right in the center of the state of Salzburg, only 70 kilometers from the wonderful city of Salzburg.
Address: Liechtensteinklammstraße 123, 5600 St. Johann im Pongau
Map:
Recommended Attractions in the Area
- Hohenwerfen Castle: half an hour’s drive.
- Gastein Valley: half an hour’s drive.
- Ice Giants Cave (Eisriesenwelt): 40 minutes’ drive.
- Lake Zell and the town of Zell am See: 45 minutes’ drive.
- Hallein Salt Mines: 50 minutes’ drive.
- Kaprun Dams: 55 minutes’ drive.
- Stoderzinken: An experiential zipline course and a very large rope park – an hour’s drive.
- The city of Salzburg: an hour’s drive.
