Key facts at a glance
The Kaprun high-mountain reservoirs lie at 2,040 m at the head of the Kapruner Tal. The two reservoirs Wasserfallboden and Mooserboden are reachable, weather permitting, from mid-May to mid-October via a bus line and the Lärchwand inclined lift – a popular hiking and excursion destination with alpine panoramas in the Hohe Tauern.
High above the Kaprun Valley, at around 2,040 metres, lie the Kaprun High Alpine Reservoirs – an engineering masterpiece set amid a magnificent high-mountain backdrop. Turquoise storage lakes, mighty dams and views of the glaciers of the Hohe Tauern make this trip one of the most impressive experiences in the region.
Two reservoirs at 2,040 metres
The two reservoirs Mooserboden and Wasserfallboden collect the meltwater of the surrounding glaciers. The dam at Mooserboden is 107 metres high and around 500 metres long – a scale you only truly grasp up close.
The ascent with the Lärchwand inclined lift
As there is no direct access by private car, the way up is via buses and the Lärchwand inclined lift – with 431 metres of elevation gain, one of the largest open inclined lifts in Europe. The ride itself is a small adventure.
Erlebniswelt Strom & dam tours
The facility is operated by the Austrian energy company VERBUND. Several times a day, guides lead tours through the interior of the dam; the Erlebniswelt Strom (Electricity Adventure World) vividly explains how glacier water becomes clean electricity – and it is included in the ticket.
Hiking & via ferratas
- Stromtrail – family-friendly themed trail all about water
- Herb nature trail featuring the alpine plant world
- Höhenburg hike with a sweeping panorama
- Höhenburg via ferrata arena (three routes) and the demanding MOBO 107 on the dam
A break with a glacier view
Mountain restaurants and rustic huts invite you to pause and enjoy the view: while the turquoise water glitters below, the gaze reaches out over rock, firn and the peaks of the Hohe Tauern.
Tips for your visit
- Open roughly from early June to mid-October.
- Allow half a day to a full day – there is plenty to discover up there.
- Bring warm, windproof clothing and sturdy shoes.
- Access only by bus and inclined lift; check tickets in advance.
You will find more excursion ideas for your stay in our summer travel guide for Zell am See.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to the Kaprun high-mountain reservoirs?
From the Kesselfall Alpenhaus car park, a combination of buses and the Lärchwand inclined lift – one of the largest open inclined lifts in Europe – takes you up to the Mooserboden reservoir at 2,040 m. The whole ascent takes around 45 minutes.
When are the high-mountain reservoirs open?
Weather permitting, the reservoirs are accessible from around mid-May to mid-October. Outside this summer season the mountain road and inclined lift are not in operation.
How long does the walk around the Mooserboden take?
The loop around the Mooserboden reservoir takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on your pace and is mostly easy to moderate. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
What can you do at the reservoirs?
Popular options are hikes around the two reservoirs, a visit to the adventure exhibition at the dam walls, guided themed trails, and the mountain restaurant with views of the glacier world of the Hohe Tauern.
Are the high-mountain reservoirs suitable for families?
Yes. The ascent by bus and inclined lift is already an adventure for children, and on site there are easy hiking trails and an adventure exhibition. Weatherproof clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended.