Mountain lakes & gorges in Schladming-Dachstein

The Schladming-Dachstein region offers a selection of beautiful mountain lakes – some suitable for swimming, others strictly protected.

If you want to swim:

• Check in advance whether the lake is suitable for swimming or is protected.
• Be mindful of nature: be quiet, respect the shore areas, do not use soap or oil, and be careful when entering the water.
• Help preserve the purity of the lakes – for future generations.

With an area of around 23 hectares, the Schwarzensee in the Kleinsölktal is the largest lake in the region. It is idyllically situated in the Schladminger Tauern and impresses with its natural tranquillity and clear water quality - perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

The easiest and most accessible is the Styrian Bodensee in the Seewigtal valley. It is just a few minutes away from the parking lot and offers an impressive panorama with a waterfall and mountain backdrop. The idyllic Spechtensee is just as easy to reach and invites you to take a leisurely stroll.

The Spiegelsee on the Reiteralm, the Riesachsee in the Untertal, and the Steirische Bodensee are particularly well-suited for families. These lakes are accessible via well-maintained hiking trails and offer children a variety of nature experiences along the way.

Lake Putterersee in Aigen im Ennstal is the warmest natural bathing lake in the Schladming-Dachstein region. It owes its excellent water quality to the boggy ground. In summer, it is ideal for swimming, while in winter it transforms into a romantic ice-skating rink when the temperatures are right.

The Sattelsee lake on Greifenberg is located at 2,450 meters above sea level, making it the highest lake in the region.

Among the region’s most famous gorges are the Silberkarklamm in Ramsau am Dachstein, the Wilde Wasser Runde with its canyons and waterfalls in the Untertal, and the Donnersbachklamm at the Grimming-Donnersbachtal Adventure Center. The Wörschachklamm and the Talbachklamm are also impressive, featuring roaring streams, footbridges, and spectacular rock formations.

Most of the gorges in the region are only accessible during the snow-free period. The Talbachklamm gorge between Schladming and Untertal is an exception - it is open all year round and is even illuminated in the evenings until midnight.

The other gorges are closed in winter due to frost, the risk of falling rocks and avalanches.

Hiking through a gorge during heavy rain or immediately afterward is generally not recommended. Slippery walkways, high water levels, and potential rockfalls can compromise safety. It is advisable to check the latest weather and trail information before your visit.

The Talbachklamm gorge is not only worth seeing during the day, but you can also admire the sound of the water in the evening. The gorge is illuminated until midnight. During Advent, the gorge is a special highlight and shines with its wild romantic magic during the Schladming Mountain Christmas.

The Riesach water fall in Untertal is the highest waterfall in the region with a drop height of 140 meters over several steps. You can reach the lower drop in just five minutes from the Seeleiten/Riesach waterfall stop - a spectacular natural spectacle that you shouldn't miss.

The waterfalls along the “Wilde Wasser Runde” trail are particularly well-suited for families. Well-maintained trails, bridges, and viewing platforms offer exciting glimpses into the power of water. The Riesach Waterfall is also a popular destination for families with children who enjoy hiking.

The region’s most famous waterfalls are located along the Wilde Wasser in the Untertal valley. The magnificent Riesach Waterfall plunges a total of 140 meters down the valley in two cataracts—with viewing platforms that bring Styria’s highest waterfall within almost arm’s reach.