The Stuibenfall waterfalls are the most impressive part of the Horlachbach river, which flows strongly through the high mountains and powerfully cascades into the blooming valley from a height of 159 meters. For years, the waterfall area was pristine and hidden from the eyes of most travelers. With the increase in visitors to the Ötztal valley, regulated hiking trails, an 80-meter-long suspension bridge, and 5 viewing platforms were built, allowing visitors to enjoy the waterfalls and the surrounding green nature from every possible angle.
This is what the beautiful Stuibenfall waterfalls look like:
The Hiking Trail to the Waterfalls
You can start the hiking trail from two locations. The first option is to begin the hike from the Bischoffsplatz car park in the heart of Umhausen village. Within about a 45-minute walk, you will reach the foot of the waterfalls. This part of the trail is also suitable for strollers and is very accessible. If you are in good shape and want to climb to the higher viewing platforms, you will have to ascend the many stairs (700 steps) towards the top of the falls. The view from the foot of the falls is impressive enough, so you don’t have to climb all the way to the upper sections.
Another option is to start the trail from the top, at the head of the falls, and make your way down the stairs. If you are interested in this route, you will need to park at the Gasthof Stuibenfall Inn. Note that at the top of the falls, there is an 80-meter-long suspension bridge, which is not ideal for those with a fear of heights.
For travelers who want to see the waterfalls up close, there are via ferrata (iron rope) routes in the upper part of the falls. These routes are considered easy, and even if you have no experience and are not afraid, you can try walking along the ropes alongside the falls.
If you have the choice of when to visit the falls, it is recommended to come on Wednesdays. During this time, the falls are exceptionally illuminated until midnight.
Starting point from the bottom of the falls: Bischoffsplatz car park in the village of Umhausen (Map).
Starting point from the top of the falls: Gasthof Stuibenfall Inn (Map).
Guided Night Tour to the Illuminated Waterfalls on Wednesdays
On Wednesdays, when the waterfalls are illuminated with spectacular light, there is a guided lantern tour to the falls. The tours take place in the summer months from mid-June.
Meeting point: Next to the tourist information office in Umhausen village or at the Sennhof Niederthai car park.
Time: Wednesdays, 20:30.
Cost: €8
Pre-registration is required. Email for registration: umhausen@oetztal.com or phone: +4357200400
Location map of the Stuibenfall waterfalls:
You can find comprehensive information about the Ötztal valley, where these beautiful waterfalls are located, in the detailed article we have prepared on this wonderful region. The article includes the recommended attractions in the valley and useful information for planning your trip to this area. Click to read about the Ötztal valley.
