The gorge acts as a natural geological corridor linking the Kaiserwinkl region in Austria with the Chiemgau Alps in Bavaria.
The Klobenstein pilgrimage church is famous for a large boulder that allegedly split during a rockfall and miraculously stopped just before hitting the building.
The Großache river, which forms the gorge, is known as the Tiroler Achen once it crosses the border into Germany.
The suspension bridge provides a direct vantage point over the river's erosion patterns where the water depth is particularly constricted.
The path through the gorge was traditionally used by pilgrims traveling between the two countries.
The Entenloch Gorge, also known as the Klobenstein Gorge, features the Großache river carving through narrow limestone rock formations between Kössen and Schleching. The gorge is primarily accessed via a well-maintained hiking trail that spans the border between the Austrian state of Tyrol and the German state of Bavaria. A central feature of the path is the 36-meter-high suspension bridge that crosses the narrowest section of the gorge. The trail leads visitors past the Klobenstein pilgrimage church, which is historically significant for its location directly above the river. Geological evidence in the gorge reveals the complex tectonic history of the Northern Limestone Alps. The surrounding terrain is characterized by dense coniferous forests and steep, vertical rock faces. The trail is relatively flat in sections, making it accessible for families, though it passes through areas of natural ruggedness.
The center of the suspension bridge looking down toward the narrowest section of the river gorge.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip as the paths can be slippery, especially near the river banks.
Check local weather reports, as the gorge trail can become dangerous during or immediately after heavy rainfall due to rising water levels.
Carry a light jacket even in summer, as the temperature inside the deep gorge is noticeably cooler than the surrounding area.
Do not attempt to swim or enter the river, as the currents in the narrow gorge are extremely dangerous and unpredictable.
The trail is typically inaccessible during winter months due to snow and ice; check local signage for seasonal closures following the spring thaw.
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile limestone slopes; pack out all trash to maintain the natural environment.
