A natural wonder in the heart of the Karwendel
Gleirschklamm Gorge in the Karwendel Nature Park
Discover the hidden splendour of the Gleirschklamm gorge, one of the most spectacular natural jewels in the Karwendel mountains. This impressive gorge, known for its majestic rock formations, gushing waterfalls and crystal-clear water, offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Karwendel, the Gleirschklamm gorge unfolds as a place of raw, unspoilt beauty. Here, where water has been carving its way through massive rock faces for centuries, you can experience nature in its most pristine form. The path through the gorge, lined with lush greenery and the melodious song of dippers, takes you on a journey through time - back to the roots of nature.
Time travel in stone
The history of the Gleirschklamm gorge
The Gleirschklamm gorge, a jewel in the Karwendel, enchants with its unspoilt beauty and deep-rooted history. Surrounded by imposing cliffs and criss-crossed by crystal-clear waterfalls, it offers an unrivalled natural experience. As you walk along the narrow path that winds its way through the gorge for around 45 minutes, you can feel the impetuous force of the water that has been carving its way for centuries. The gorge is a place where nature can be experienced in its purest form, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
In the past, the Gleirschklamm gorge served as an important route for timber drifting, a practice that characterised the landscape and the people of the region. In early summer, when the meltwater filled the gorge, the logs were lowered into the water. At the "Klausen", a damming point at the entrance to the gorge, the logs waited for the signal to shoot down into the valley with tremendous force. This dangerous work required skill and courage, qualities that the timber raftsmen, the Trifters, possessed in particular.
Today, traces of this bygone era have almost disappeared, but the legends and tales of hard labour and life in harmony with nature have remained alive in the Gleirschklamm gorge. A visit here is therefore not only an immersion in the beauty of nature, but also a tribute to the people and their stories that once shaped this gorge.
Important notes
- The path through the gorge can be challenging in places. Sure-footedness and a head for heights are recommended.
- The Gleirschklamm gorge is a protected nature reserve. Please do not leave any rubbish behind and respect the flora and fauna.
- We recommend travelling to Scharnitz railway station by public transport. Your guest card is valid as a ticket for all public bus connections in the region, including the train journey between Seefeld and Scharnitz.
- From Scharnitz train station, it is only a 10-minute walk to the starting point at the Scharnitz Nature Park Information Centre.
Paths of discovery
Hiking in the Gleirschklamm gorge
+8
Secure a unique gorge experience
Guided hike in the Gleirschklamm gorge
Moments of pleasure in nature
Refreshment stops around the Gleirschklamm gorge
Taxi Rides into the Valleys and Boat Transport into Hinterautal
From 1ˢᵗ June to 15ᵗʰ October every year
• Taxi and Minibus Mair – Scharnitz T. +43 5213 5363
• Taxi Ramona – Giessenbach T. +43 5213 5541
Please contact the companies directly for information about rates and availability.
Arrival & mobility
Arriving in Scharnitz by Public Transport
You can get to Scharnitz by bus or train from Innsbruck (check connections here with Scotty) or from Germany (check here with Deutsche Bahn).
From the train station in Scharnitz, it's just a 10-minute walk to the starting point at the Nature Park Info Center.
Good to know: Your guest card is also your ticket for all public buses in the region during your stay. It also includes train rides between Seefeld and Scharnitz.
Parking
Parking facilities
Further voyages of discovery through the Karwendel
Guided tour in the Karwendel Nature Park
Code of Conduct
Your safety and the protection of our unique nature are very important to us. Please enjoy this beautiful landscape with respect. By following these ten simple rules, you actively contribute to preserving this natural paradise.
Commercial filming and photography in the Karwendel Nature Park are becoming increasingly popular. However, due to the area's special protected status, official permission and compliance with specific rules are required. Detailed information on how to apply for a filming or photography permit can be found on this page.
Please also follow the general rules of conduct for the Karwendel Nature Park.
BLOG OF THE SEEFELD REGION
