Where the Kapruner Ache rushes down into the valley from the glacial waters of the Hohe Tauern, it has carved a wild gorge over millennia: the Sigmund-Thun-Klamm. Along artfully built wooden walkways and bridges, the path leads right into the roaring natural spectacle – a refreshing destination right by Kaprun that brings welcome cool on warm summer days.
Over wooden walkways through the gorge
For around 320 metres in length and more than 30 metres deep, the trail winds along the rock faces. Specially built wooden paths and bridges lead over the foaming water; allow about 30 minutes of pure walking time for the passage. Everywhere it roars, splashes and glistens – an experience for all the senses.
A gorge with history
As early as 1893, the gorge was opened to visitors following plans by Nikolaus Gaßner and named after the Salzburg governor Sigmund Graf von Thun. After the walkways were abandoned in 1938, the wooden gorge path was faithfully rebuilt in the early 1990s.
The Klammsee at the upper end
At the upper exit of the gorge awaits the idyllic Klammsee. A leisurely circular path, a Kneipp facility, a playground and the inviting Klammseestüberl make the reservoir the perfect place for a break – with views of the water and the surrounding mountains.
An experience for the whole family
The Sigmund-Thun-Klamm is a popular destination for families: children marvel at the power of the water, and the path is easy to manage on foot. Because of the wooden stairs, however, the gorge is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
Atmospheric events
In summer, special events transform the gorge into a magical backdrop: the Klammlichter with atmospheric lighting, the Klammfrühstück breakfast in the morning, and the Sagenhafte Nacht des Wassers (Mystical Night of Water) reveal the gorge in a whole new light.
Tips for your visit
- Usually open from May to October.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes – the walkways can be damp.
- Even in midsummer, pack a light jacket; it is cool inside the gorge.
- Reachable from Kaprun in a few minutes; a footpath leads right to the entrance.
For more ideas for warm days, see our summer travel guide to Zell am See.