Waldbachstrub, Hallstatt - all you need to know

Waldbachstrub is a series of waterfalls at the end of the Echerntal valley and the main attraction of the local circular walking route.

The route begins on the southern outskirts of Hallstatt and continues along a mountain stream deep amongst the woods and rock faces.

The trail is usually much less crowded than the centre of Hallstatt. As well as the main waterfalls, you’ll also see the smaller Schleierfall and, on the longer route, the Gletschergarten glacier garden.

Length:6 km
Time: approx. 2 hours
Start and finish: car park P2
Entry: free
Difficulty: moderate, the final section is difficult
Best time of year: April to October

Route to the waterfalls

Set off from car park P2 next to the lower station of the Salzbergbahn cable car. Follow the signposts marked ‘Themenweg’, ‘Wasserfall ’ or ‘Waldbachstrub’.

The first section leads through the residential area of Echerntal and then continues through the woods along the Waldbach stream.

The path here is wide and climbs only gently. After passing the wooden pavilion, continue along the signposted trail past the seasonal Schleierfall waterfall.

The Schleierfall may be almost dry after a prolonged period without rain. Carry on to the far end of the valley, where the path begins to climb towards Waldbachstrub. The final stretch takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

At the end of the trail, three mountain streams converge and the water cascades down several steps into a narrow rocky gorge. The water flow is at its highest here in spring and after rainfall.

The full loop via the Gletschergarten

From the waterfalls, you can continue along the signposted circular route to the Gletschergarten.

This detour takes about 30 minutes and leads to rock formations and deep hollows carved out by glacial water.

If you just want to take a look at the Waldbachstrub, return by the same route. Allow 3 to 4 hours for the full loop via the Gletschergarten; it’s more comfortable to plan for a half-day trip.

There are no standard refreshment facilities along the route, so please bring your own drinks and something to eat.

How challenging is the route?

The lower part of the Echerntal is easy and can be walked even with young children. The entire route to Waldbachstrub is not suitable for pushchairs.

The final section to the waterfalls is marked with the Austrian Alpenverein’s black trail markers. The path is steep, with a risk of slipping in places, and requires a sure footing and a head for heights. Sturdy footwear is essential.

The waterfalls are more impressive after rain, but the rocks and steps can be very slippery. Dogs are only allowed on the trail if kept on a lead.

When to go

The best conditions are usually from April to November. In spring and after rainy days, the waterfalls have the highest water flow; after a long dry spell, the Schleierfall in particular may be low.

The trail is also accessible in winter, but may be closed in the event of snow or black ice.

Admission and opening hours

Entry to the Echerntal, the Waldbachstrub waterfalls and the Gletschergarten is free.

There are no ticket offices or fixed opening hours along the route.

How to get to Echerntal

The easiest way to start the trail is from the P2 paid car park by the Salzbergbahn cable car. You cannot reserve a parking space, and the car park may fill up during the peak season.

It takes about 15 minutes to walk to P2 from the Marktplatz or the boat landing stage. Buses on route 543 stop at the Hallstatt Lahn stop, not far from car parks P1 and P2.

If you’re arriving by train, take the ferry from Hallstatt station to the other side of the lake and then continue on foot through the centre.

👉How to get to Hallstatt and where to park