Gleirschklamm Gorge: A Natural Wonder in Scharnitz

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Discover the untouched beauty of Gleirschklamm Gorge in Tyrol: a natural jewel with majestic rock formations, waterfalls, and crystal-clear waters.

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Gleirschklamm' Gorge

The Gleirschklamm Gorge, located near Scharnitz in Tyrol, Austria, is a stunning natural attraction carved by the Gleirsch River. This wild and romantic gorge offers a well-maintained hiking trail through narrow canyons with steep limestone walls, lush vegetation, clear water, and cascading waterfalls, making it a picturesque destination for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Gleirschklamm' Gorge

Hinterautalstraße 555b, Scharnitz, 6108, AT
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip, as the trail can be slippery in places, especially near the waterfalls.
Visit during the off-peak season (May, June, or late September) to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Bring your own snacks and water, as there are limited refreshment options along the trail.
Check the weather forecast before you go, as the gorge can be dangerous during heavy rain or storms.
Take your guest card with you if you are staying in the Region Seefeld, as it provides free access to public buses and trains in the region.

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Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Gleirschklamm Gorge using public transport, take a train or bus to Scharnitz. From Scharnitz train station, it's a 10-minute walk to the Nature Park Information Center, the starting point for the hike to the gorge. The guest card, provided by accommodations in the Region Seefeld, allows free use of public buses and trains between Seefeld and Scharnitz. A single bus ticket from Seefeld to Scharnitz without a guest card costs approximately €2-€5. Alternatively, from the Scharnitz bus station, walk towards the Karwendel valleys to the east. Cross the bridge and take the road into the valley on the southern bank. Continue past the public car park about 200m along the road and follow the righthand road at the next junction and the signs to the Hinterautal, the Gleirschklamm and the Isarsteig.
Walking

From the Scharnitz Nature Park Information Center, follow Hinterautalstraße for about 500 meters to the Isarsteig turnoff. Take the Isarsteig, which leads to Nederweg, passing the Scharnitzer Alm before arriving at the Gleirschklamm Gorge entrance. The narrow path through the gorge is suitable for sure-footed hikers. Parking is available in Scharnitz, with several parking lots charging between €4 and €7 per day. From the parking areas, walk along the Isar River until you reach the gorge. The walk from the parking lot to the gorge entrance takes approximately 45 minutes.

Discover more about Gleirschklamm' Gorge

Nestled in the Karwendel Alpine Park, north of Innsbruck, the Gleirschklamm Gorge is a testament to the power and beauty of nature. Over centuries, the Gleirsch River has sculpted a dramatic landscape of towering limestone walls, creating a narrow canyon that captivates visitors with its untouched beauty. The well-maintained hiking trail, complete with wooden walkways and footbridges, makes it relatively easy to traverse the gorge, allowing visitors to witness diverse plant and animal life. The gorge has a rich history, once serving as a vital route for timber drifting, a practice that shaped the region's landscape and culture. In early summer, logs were floated down the gorge with the meltwater, requiring skilled workers to navigate the logs through the rushing waters. Today, the Gleirschklamm is a protected nature reserve, inviting visitors to experience nature in its purest form, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The 15km loop trail to Gleirschklamm Gorge is considered moderately difficult, typically taking around 5 hours to complete, with an elevation gain of 400 meters. The trail begins at the Scharnitz Train Station and leads through secured paths, offering spectacular views of the turquoise water and surrounding mountains. While the route is generally accessible, sure-footedness is recommended, and it may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility issues. The best time to visit is between May and October, as the gorge is closed during the winter months.

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