Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs – Wasserfallboden Reservoir: A technical masterpiece in the Hohe Tauern
In the middle of the Hohe Tauern lie the impressive Kaprun high mountain reservoirs, which are among the most important buildings of the post-war period. The two reservoirs are located at an altitude of around 2,040 metres waterfall floor and Mooserboden, embedded in a spectacular Alpine landscape. The reservoirs are not only a technical masterpiece, but also a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Short info:
- Where is it located: Kaprun, Salzburger Land, Austria
- Accessibility: By car to the free parking garage in Kaprun, from there bus connection to the reservoirs
- Highlights: Hikes, dam visits, guided tours, herbal trail
- Popular activities: Hiking, guided tours, viewpoints
- Admission: 25 € including bus ride (up and down), free with the Kaprun Summer Card
Arrival and admission
The journey to the Kaprun high mountain reservoirs is an experience in itself. From Kaprun you drive about 12 minutes to the end of the road, where there is a free parking garage with ten floors. Small tip: It is best to park on the top floor, as this is where the exit and the ticket office are located. The bus ride to the reservoirs costs 25 €, including the return trip. Alternatively, you can get free entry if you take the Kaprun Summer Card which is often included when staying overnight in the region.
The bus ride up takes about 15 minutes and ends directly at the dam of the Mooserboden reservoirFrom there you can enjoy the impressive technology and nature at the same time.
Hike from the Mooserboden reservoir to the Wasserfallboden reservoir
Numerous hiking trails start from the upper Mooserboden reservoir. The hike from Mooserboden down to Wasserfallboden reservoirThe trail starts at herbal trail and leads steadily downhill. The hike takes about 40 minutes and is doable for hikers of all levels.
A special highlight is the stop at the Ebmattenhütte-Fürthermoaralm, which is idyllically located between the two reservoirs. Here you can enjoy the fantastic view and try homemade specialties. The apple strudel and the homemade buttermilk are particularly recommended, but the Kaiserschmarrn, which we admired at the neighboring tables, is also a delicacy. There is a nice playground for children and you can fill up your drinking bottle with fresh mountain water.
guided tours and viewpoints
At the Mooserboden reservoir, guided tours offered, where you can explore the technology behind the dam. The tour is exciting for anyone interested in technology and energy production. You get a deep insight into the history of the construction and how the power plants work. The tour lasts about an hour and can be booked directly on site.
One of the best viewpoints is on the hill between the two reservoirs. The climb is worth it as you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the Mooserboden reservoir and the Wasserfallboden reservoir you can enjoy.
return journey and experiences
If you want to end the day in the mountains, take the bus back to the valley. The return journey takes a little longer due to the narrow roads and oncoming traffic - around 45 minutes. It is worth taking a look at the timetable, as the buses do not always run regularly and longer waiting times are possible. Nevertheless, a visit to the Kaprun reservoirs offers a unique combination of nature, technology and alpine flair.
The Kaprun high mountain reservoirs are a real highlight in the region and offer both relaxation and adventure for hikers, families and technology enthusiasts.
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