The Seisenberg Gorge is located near the village of Weißbach bei Lofer in the northern part of the Salzburg region, not far from the German border. It is approximately a 20-minute drive from Zell am See. In fact, it is one of the longest natural gorges in the area, and the trail between the massive rock formations and along the rushing river is particularly enchanting.
According to researchers, the formation of this gorge began as early as 12,000 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age. For thousands of years, the gorge remained hidden from view as the rushing waters worked determinedly to carve a narrow flow channel through the mountain rocks. In 1831, a wooden path was constructed extending 600 meters long at a depth of 50 meters within the gorge.
The Seisenberg Gorge Hiking Trail
Similar to other trails in Austria’s natural canyons, this route is well-maintained and completely safe. There are two parking lots located near the gorge. P1 is about a 3-minute walk from the entrance, and P2 is approximately a 10-minute walk. Near the ticket counters, you will find a rustic café and public restrooms. After purchasing your tickets, you can pass through the gate and enter the gorge area.
The first section of the gorge features an ancient water station with a unique canal. From there, the path continues onto a wooden walkway with a high railing that runs through the heart of the gorge alongside massive rock formations. While the path is narrow, it is comfortable for walking. There are many stairs, but there is no continuous, exhausting ascent. Along the wooden trail, there are spots to stop for photos and to watch the rushing river as it winds between the giant rocks.
The final part of the trail becomes particularly mysterious and impressive as you pass through a narrow gap between the rocks toward a rushing waterfall. Beyond the waterfall, the path widens and turns into a forest trail alongside the clear river. The route is perfectly suitable for children, though it is not accessible for strollers.
This is what the Seisenberg Gorge trail looks like
The walking trail inside the canyon is approximately 600 meters long, but the total distance from the parking lot to the canyon exit is just over a kilometer. Walking through the gorge itself takes about an hour, and the return trip takes about 30 minutes via a path that leads through the forest back to parking lot P1. If you are motivated to continue hiking through the forest, it is worth taking the trail that ascends toward Hintertal. This is a charming spot in a valley surrounded by high peaks, featuring a children’s play area and a local restaurant. The walk from the end of the gorge to Hintertal takes about 25 minutes. The trail is well-signposted and clear.
Every week, one special tour is offered after dark. This is a torchlight tour that presents the gorge in a completely different light, accompanied by folk music and interesting fairy tales.
Additional Essential Information for Your Visit
Operating Hours:
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From the second week of April until mid-September: Every day from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
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From mid-September: Every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
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Note: Opening hours may change depending on the weather. You can check for updated opening hours here.
Address for the Gorge Entrance: Oberweißbach 16, 5093 Weißbach bei Lofer
Parking: There are two parking lots adjacent to the gorge, P1 and P2. Parking requires a fee. You can only purchase a daily ticket at a cost of 4€.
Entrance Costs:
- Adult: €9
- Child (age 6-15): €5
- Free entry for SalzburgerLand Card holders.
Official Website
Address: Seisenbergklamm, Oberweißbach 16, 5093 Weißbach bei Lofer
Map:
If you are interested in additional attractions in the area, you can read about other nature sites in the Saalach Valley. Additionally, a short drive away, you will find the Saalfelden summer toboggan run or the Senses Park in Leogang.
