To Austria’s last wooden logging dam
© netwerkstatt
© netwerkstatt
© netwerkstatt
© netwerkstatt
© netwerkstatt
© netwerkstatt
© netwerkstatt
To Austria’s last wooden logging dam
Through the Weißenbach valley to Chorinsky Klause. We begin our nearly three hour hike through the Weißenbach, north of Bad Goisern, in a car park which is directly after the Weißenbach exit of the federal highway (B145). The route first takes us over the large Traunbrücke - past the Weißenbach fire station, in the Weißenbach valley. From here we follow the hiking signpost "Chorinsky Klause" for approximately 90 minutes to Brunntalalm. In the summer months, the hut is open and is ideal for a hearty snack.
Detour for amateur geologists
From the Brunntalalm we again follow the signs to "Chorinsky Klause" and come to Traunbachau. A detour into the floodplain is especially worthwhile for amateur geologists, because at the end it opens into an impressive rubble and gravel field in the bed of the Weißenbaches creek, which is fed from the surrounding mountains by the erosion caused by many flowing streams and brooks which flow into the valley.
With the power of water
After 300 meters we reach a short detour to the left, which leads us to the Chorinsky Klause - Austria’s last functioning wooden logging dam. In the days of lumber transport, the purpose of the Chorinsky Klause was to restrict the flow of the Weissbach creek. Whenever the felled lumber was to be transported, the locks were suddenly opened, and the tidal wave washed the logs down to the river Traun, from where they could be easily transported. Until a few years ago, the dam was operated in the summer months for tourists and visitors. Unfortunately, these demonstrations have since ceased. Today it is a destination for hikers and bikers.
From the dam, we remain on the forest road located on the right, high above Weißenbach valley. This gently sloping road, with beautiful views of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut, leads us back to the starting point of our hike through the Weißenbach valley.
VIDEO
Chorinsky Klause in Bad Goisern on Lake Hallstatt
Tips: Hiking in spring
The days in the Salzkammergut are getting longer. The temperatures are finally getting warmer, more and more hikers are heading to the mountains. But be careful: Especially in spring, there are a few things to consider: There is often still a lot of snow on the mountains, so be careful when crossing snowfields. After winter, you are usually still a bit "rusty", so warm up accordingly in advance and plan your tour carefully. Let your host know the planned route. This can lead to quick help in an emergency. But there's more to consider:
Tips: Hiking in spring
The days in the Salzkammergut are getting longer. The temperatures are finally getting warmer, more and more hikers are heading to the mountains. But be careful: Especially in spring, there are a few things to consider: There is often still a lot of snow on the mountains, so be careful when crossing snowfields. After winter, you are usually still a bit "rusty", so warm up accordingly in advance and plan your tour carefully. Let your host know the planned route. This can lead to quick help in an emergency. But there's more to consider:
Safety Tips for Hikers
Admittedly, the landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut is the absolute pinnacle for hiking fans, mountain enthusiasts and nature lovers—unforgettable tours to incredibly beautiful mountain lodges and meadows, panorama views as far as the eye can see and cherished moments that will last a lifetime! However, you should remember that while hiking you might find yourself in high-alpine terrain. We’ve put together some resources to assist you: how to best prepare for your tour, recommended items for your backpack and steps to take in an emergency situation. Remember to always play it safe and enjoy your hiking adventure in the Salzkammergut!
Warning: Closed trails
Better to know before you go
Hiking trails in the Salzkammergut can be closed for various reasons. To help you prepare for your hike, we have set up a page with current road closures in the region. This will help you get to your destination without any detours or stress. Click here to visit the page...
Available accommodation for your hiking holiday in the Salzkammergut
Hotels and accommodation providers in Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun offer the ideal room or apartment for your holidays, no matter what your tastes. Aside from establishments rated according to the international "star" scale, you will also find around Lake Hallstatt in Austria businesses that have been awarded two to four "edelweiss". The more flowers, the greater comforts you can expect. Whether you eventually find your cozy nest in an elegant 5-star luxury hotel, at comfortable guesthouse, a family-friendly apartment, or on a traditional farm, the choice is always entirely up to you.