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Kleinwalsertal

Top 19 Gorges in the Kleinwalsertal

Best canyons in the Kleinwalsertal are found within a region characterized by expansive mountain landscapes and deep rock gorges. This area, nestled in the Alps, features prominent natural formations carved by rivers like the Breitach and Schwarzwasserbach. The Kleinwalsertal offers diverse geological features, including valleys, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. It provides opportunities for both impressive gorge hikes and technical canyoning adventures.

Best canyons in the Kleinwalsertal

  • The most popular canyons is Gemsteltal, a gorge that offers a circular hike along a stream, suitable for families. It is known for its relaxing atmosphere and scenic paths.
  • Another must-see spot is Natural Bridge Over the Schwarzwasserbach, a natural monument featuring a bridge over the Schwarzwasserbach, accessible via a ladder. Visitors can explore the stream bed when water levels are low, revealing a unique geological formation.
  • Visitors also love Waterfall in the Schwarzwassertal, a waterfall located in the Schwarzwassertal, characterized by a steep rock face. This area is also noted for canyoning activities when water conditions are suitable.
  • Kleinwalsertal is known for deep rock gorges, scenic valley hikes, and canyoning routes. The region offers a variety of experiences, from accessible gorge trails to challenging canyoning adventures.
  • The canyons in the Kleinwalsertal are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2200 upvotes and 428 photos across 19 highlights.

Last updated: May 13, 2026

Gemsteltal

Highlight • Gorge

Very nice and not difficult circular hike with refreshments. The path goes along the stream on the edge of the meadows and the forest. Run well with children. About seven kilometers.

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Natural Bridge Over the Schwarzwasserbach

Highlight • Natural Monument

A ladder leads down to the natural bridge that leads over the Schwarzwasserbach. At times the Schwarzwasserbach is completely dry, so you can explore the stream bed in this area on foot.

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Ifenmulde High Valley

Highlight (Segment) • Summit

Nice section. The goal always in mind, walking time to the summit about three to four hours.

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Gemstel Gorge

Highlight • Gorge

The Gemstelklamm is not directly accessible, you can see it easily from the hiking trail.

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Waterfall in the Schwarzwassertal

Highlight • Waterfall

Wonderful Schwarzwassertal, especially when the temperatures are hot 🥵, well... unfortunately there was no water.

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Breitach Riverside Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The hiking route along the Breitach is a great natural spectacle. There is delicious food in the Waldhaus before you continue in the direction of Riezlern!

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Idyllic Derratal

Highlight (Segment) • Gorge

Still very natural and quiet! Definitely worth a hike, then you can go to the Spitalalpe.

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Gemstel Valley

Highlight • Gorge

Even on hot days, this hike is refreshing! For a while, we walk leisurely along the rushing Breitach and the shady banks of the Gemstelbach. Then the increasingly loud ringing of the cowbells tells us that the GenussHütte Schönesbodenalpe is not far away. Refreshing drinks await thirsty hikers in the natural refrigerator of the Naturalpe. From the spacious sun terrace, we have a panoramic view of the Kleiner Widderstein, the Bärenkopf and the Walmendingerhorn. If you would rather see the valley from the other side, hike another 10 minutes to Bernhard's Gemstelhütte or a little further in to the rear Gemstelhütte. Here you can see the mountain backdrop of the Zwölfer, Elfer and Geißhorn. With the Gemstelbach on the right, it is a leisurely walk back to Mittelberg.

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Bärguntal Valley

Highlight (Segment) • Gorge

Very beautiful and quiet side valley of the Kleinwalsertal, the route is well secured, offers several restaurants.

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Mountain Streams

Highlight • River

Two streams with small waterfalls splash down into the valley.

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Tips from the Community

Martin Schreiner
January 3, 2026, Waterfall in Schwarzwassertal

Beautiful natural waterfall with a steep rock face. However, there was no water in winter, just some ice.

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Waterfall near the natural stone bridge

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Dieter
July 30, 2025, Ifenmulde

It is quite an exhausting climb through the Ifen Mulde.

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Torsten
November 3, 2024, Bärguntal

We recommend taking the panoramic route. It is much more beautiful, more varied and less crowded.

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Moni
August 10, 2024, Mountain Streams

Water is always an attraction

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The path continues to wind uphill and after a right turn it goes steeply up over rocks. You have reached the gorge, a deep rock cut that the Gemstelbach has dug here over the years. To the right of the gorge, the path continues uphill, secured with a rope. The view down into the gorge is breathtaking. Deep down in the gorge you can hear the rushing of the Gemstelbach and in front of you you can see the waterfalls at the end of the valley in front of the Koblat massif.

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Even on hot days, this hike is refreshing! For a while, we walk leisurely along the rushing Breitach and the shady banks of the Gemstelbach. Then the increasingly loud ringing of the cowbells tells us that the GenussHütte Schönesbodenalpe is not far away. Refreshing drinks await thirsty hikers in the natural refrigerator of the Naturalpe. From the spacious sun terrace, we have a panoramic view of the Kleiner Widderstein, the Bärenkopf and the Walmendingerhorn. If you would rather see the valley from the other side, hike another 10 minutes to Bernhard's Gemstelhütte or a little further in to the rear Gemstelhütte. Here you can see the mountain backdrop of the Zwölfer, Elfer and Geißhorn. With the Gemstelbach on the right, it is a leisurely walk back to Mittelberg.

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3

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Very beautiful waterfall in the Schwarzwassertal

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best canyons for hiking in the Kleinwalsertal?

For impressive gorge hikes, the Breitachklamm is highly recommended as the deepest rock gorge in Europe, offering well-maintained paths through dramatic rock formations and thunderous waterfalls. Another excellent option is the Gemsteltal, known for its relaxing circular hike along a stream, which is particularly suitable for families. The Breitach Riverside Trail also offers a family-friendly walk through forest and along the river.

Where can I find challenging gorge hikes in the Kleinwalsertal?

For a more challenging experience, the Gemstel Gorge features a deep rock cut with breathtaking views down into the gorge and waterfalls. The path here can be steep and involves climbing over rocks, with sections secured by ropes.

Are there opportunities for canyoning in the Kleinwalsertal?

Yes, the Schwarzwasserbach is the premier destination for canyoning in Kleinwalsertal. It offers a diverse experience with hidden waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, jumps up to 12 meters, abseiling sections up to 20 meters, and water slides. The Waterfall in the Schwarzwassertal is also noted for canyoning activities when water conditions are suitable.

Is canyoning in the Schwarzwasserbach suitable for beginners?

The Schwarzwasserbach is versatile and accommodates both beginners and experienced canyoners. Beginners can bypass more challenging jumps, while professionals can tackle higher jumps and abseiling sections. It's suitable for individuals aged 12 and over, requiring physical health and good swimming skills. Professional guides are available to ensure safety.

What is the best time to visit the canyons in Kleinwalsertal?

The canyoning season for the Schwarzwasserbach typically runs from May to October, with water levels generally suitable from late May. For gorge hikes like the Breitachklamm, spring is particularly spectacular when meltwater swells the river, creating a powerful display. The well-maintained paths allow visitors to safely explore the Breitachklamm in all seasons, including winter for mystical ice formations.

Are there family-friendly canyon or gorge experiences in Kleinwalsertal?

Absolutely. The Gemsteltal offers a very nice and not difficult circular hike along a stream, perfect for families with children. The Kessellöcher Waterfalls (Schwarzwasserbach) and Kessellöcher (Potholes) are also family-friendly natural monuments with waterfalls. Additionally, the Bärguntal Valley provides a beautiful and quiet side valley with a wide, non-technical path suitable for families.

What unique natural features can I expect to see in the Kleinwalsertal canyons?

You can discover unique geological formations like the Natural Bridge Over the Schwarzwasserbach, where you can explore the stream bed when water levels are low. The Breitachklamm showcases dramatic rock formations and thunderous waterfalls, while the Schwarzwasserbach features hidden waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and varied passages. The Schwarzwassertal also hosts an extraordinary karst landscape.

What other outdoor activities can I do near the canyons in Kleinwalsertal?

Beyond canyon exploration, the Kleinwalsertal offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including waterfall hikes and general hiking routes. For cyclists, there are also challenging MTB trails throughout the region.

Are there any quiet or idyllic valleys to explore in the Kleinwalsertal?

Yes, beyond the main gorges, the Kleinwalsertal features several picturesque valleys. The Idyllic Derratal offers scenic views and intermediate trails. The Schwarzwassertal is the largest of the secluded mountain valleys, stretching for six kilometers and home to the Ifen European nature reserve with its extraordinary karst landscape. The Bärguntal Valley is also known for its beautiful and quiet atmosphere.

What do visitors enjoy most about the canyons and gorges in Kleinwalsertal?

Visitors frequently praise the relaxing atmosphere and scenic paths, especially in areas like the Gemsteltal, which is great for kids. The unique geological formations, such as the Natural Bridge Over the Schwarzwasserbach, are often discovered by chance and leave a lasting impression. The breathtaking views into deep rock cuts and the sound of rushing water, as found in the Gemstel Gorge, are also highly appreciated.

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Already discovered everything in this region? See additional gorges in the Kleinwalsertal for your next adventure:

MittelbergRiezlernHirscheggWolfurtSchwarzachBildsteinLangen bei BregenzLauterachSigmarszellMöggersEichenbergHohenweilerBuchBezirk BregenzKennelbachHörbranzLochauHardFußachHöchstGaißauStrehler Wald

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