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Natural attractions

Dachstein Krippenstein

4.7 · 4,314 reviews
Rugged, expansive, and adventurous.
Dachstein Krippenstein, Winkl 34, 4831 Obertraun, Austria
Interesting facts
1

The 5fingers viewing platform was constructed to mimic the shape of a hand and is illuminated at night.

2

The Mammut Cave system contains over 60 kilometers of explored passageways.

3

The Giant Ice Cave features ice sculptures that can reach thicknesses of up to 20 meters.

4

Krippenstein is one of the longest freeride descents in Austria, covering a vertical drop of 1,500 meters.

5

The plateau is part of the Hallstatt-Dachstein/Salzkammergut UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape.

6

The area experiences extreme karst topography, resulting in limited surface water despite high precipitation.

7

The Dachstein Shark is a 3-meter long artistic structure inspired by the discovery of prehistoric marine fossils in the region.

Overview

Dachstein Krippenstein is a high-alpine plateau located in the Dachstein Salzkammergut region of the Austrian Alps. The site is characterized by the 5fingers viewing platform, which extends 8 meters over a 400-meter vertical drop. Beneath the summit, the Giant Ice Cave and Mammut Cave contain extensive subterranean glacial formations and complex karst tunnel systems. Winter operations focus on freeride skiing, featuring long, marked off-piste routes rather than traditional groomed downhill runs. The area is accessed via a three-section cable car system rising from Obertraun. The geology of the plateau is a UNESCO World Heritage site, defined by limestone karst landscapes. Snowshoeing, paragliding, and high-altitude hiking are primary summer activities. Visitors can access the Dachstein Shark sculpture, an art installation situated near the mountain station.

Photo spot

The tip of the 5fingers platform looking down toward Lake Hallstatt.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, closed-toe mountain boots even in summer, as the terrain is rugged and rocky.

Bring a warm jacket and gloves, as temperatures inside the ice caves remain near freezing year-round.

Check the mountain weather forecast immediately before ascending, as visibility can change rapidly.

What to avoid

Attempting off-piste skiing without local knowledge or proper avalanche safety equipment.

Good to know

Operates on a seasonal basis; segments often close for maintenance during late autumn and late spring.

Etiquette

Stick to marked trails to protect the fragile alpine karst environment; follow all guide instructions inside cave systems.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in summer for the clearest views; mid-winter for freeride conditions.
Address
Dachstein Krippenstein, Winkl 34, 4831 Obertraun, Austria
47.548, 13.705
Get directions
Details
Key geological featuresLimestone karst plateau, glacier-fed ice caves, sinkholes
Topographic elevation2,100 meters above sea level

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in summer for the clearest views; mid-winter for freeride conditions..

The tip of the 5fingers platform looking down toward Lake Hallstatt.

Close by you'll find 5 Fingers, Dachstein Giant Ice Cave, Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt.