Hike to the high mountain reservoirs in Kaprun
The hike starts directly at Alpenhaus Kesselfall. Here you initially follow a beautiful hiking trail that passes to the left of the Lärchwand elevator.
Once you reach the first reservoir, the "Wasserfallboden", you can enjoy the wonderful view for the first time. The landscape here is breathtakingly beautiful: green areas, colorful alpine flowers and several waterfalls.
After the Wasserfallboden reservoir, you pass the Fürthermoaralm. Here you can also stop for a tasty Brettljause. Continue along the herb and nature trail towards Moserboden. Here you can learn a lot about local herbs while enjoying the view of the surrounding Hohe Tauern peaks.
After about 35 minutes, you will have reached the Mooserboden reservoir. The dam wall at Mooserboden is 500 meters long and 107 meters high.
The high mountain reservoir is the ideal starting point for high alpine tours such as the Grießkogel, Hocheiser or the large Wiesbachhorn. Climbing fans will also find a playground here: there are three via ferratas, which have been built in the solid rock of the high-altitude castle. Different levels of difficulty create climbing experiences for professionals and beginners (guided tours are also offered). There are also guided tours of the interior of the dam wall. So there is plenty to discover!
To save yourself the long descent, you can take the bus and the Lärchwand inclined elevator. With the Zell am See-Kaprun Sommercard (included with your stay at the AlpenParks Hotels in Zell am See-Kaprun), the ride is free!
Facts:
Walking time: 2.5 - 3 hours
You should have good stamina. There is a small passage with a wire rope and hooks where caution is advised as it is slippery due to the waterfall next to it. A very rewarding hike with magnificent views!
Do you know why the high mountain reservoirs are such a beautiful turquoise color? Here's the answer: it's due to the so-called "glacial polish": the water that flows into the reservoirs flushes minerals out of the surrounding rock. This makes the water appear turquoise in the light.
