Liechtenstein Gorge – General Information
In the heart of the state of Salzburg, about an hour’s drive south of the city of Salzburg, is a nice town called St. Johann im Pongau. The Liechtenstein Gorge (Liechtensteinklamm) is located at the entrance to the Grossarl Valley (Grossarltal) near the town. The Liechtenstein Gorge is a very deep natural canyon, in fact, one of the deepest and longest natural canyons in the entire Alpine region. It is a unique and spectacularly beautiful place.
For many years the place was completely private, until the local residents decided in 1875 to make the Liechtenstein Gorge accessible to visitors. The Alpine Association of Pongau was responsible for the construction work, but the project quickly ran into financial difficulties. As a last resort, the members of the association turned to Prince Johann II of Liechtenstein, who gladly donated a large sum of money for the construction work. Once the financial difficulties were overcome, the workers continued the work of building the trail, which was completed in 1876. In that year, the trail was opened to visitors. 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 must visit the place that the locals call “nature’s theater show”! A place that has been visited by over 10 million people from all corners of the world.
This is what awaits you inside the Liechtenstein Gorge
Walk through the water mists alongside huge rock formations covered with diverse vegetation, accompanied by the sound of the rushing river. On beautiful sunny days, you can see how the sun’s rays break through the water droplets, leaving behind colorful rainbows. The power of the water thunders inside the gorge, which adds even more to the powerful experience.
The total length of the Liechtenstein Gorge is about 4 kilometers, but only one and a half kilometers are open to visitors. The hiking trail is quite safe and is mostly made of wooden platforms that have been fixed to the sides of the huge rock formations that rise to a height of about 300 meters! Part of the trail passes through passages carved into the massive rock formations.
In certain parts of the trail, the canyon becomes quite narrow, only a few meters wide. At the end of the canyon, there is a very powerful and spectacular waterfall. At the far end of the trail, before returning to the entrance, there is an area with tables and benches where you can stop for photos or a light meal next to the waterfall.
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.
Other Essential Information for Visiting the Liechtenstein Gorge
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.
It is recommended to 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.
Prices?
Please note: The prices for booking in advance through the official website are cheaper than the prices at the ticket office!
The official website with a detailed price list and the option to book tickets in advance: https://www.josalzburg.com/de/sommer/liechtensteinklamm
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.
