Top 15 Gorges around Scheibbs

The canyons around Scheibbs are characterized by impressive natural beauty. You'll find deep green-turquoise waters, towering conglomerate cliffs, and picturesque rock formations, especially in the Erlauf Gorge. Other areas feature waterfalls, like the Trefflingfall, one of the longest in Lower Austria, and dedicated walkways through gorges, such as the Wooden Walkway in Mendlingtal Gorge, offering views of waterfalls and bridges.

Yes, several canyons offer family-friendly experiences. The Erlauf Gorge is a popular destination for families, featuring a circular trail with an educational path and opportunities for cooling off in the river during summer. The Trefflingfall is also considered family-friendly, as is the Wooden Walkway in Mendlingtal Gorge with its accessible path.

Yes, the Scheibbs district offers canyoning opportunities. Rotmoosbach in Göstling an der Ybbs is known for being a beginner-friendly canyoning experience with small slides, jumps, and abseiling points. Rotbach in Wildalpen is another option, described as an 'easy' canyon with numerous jumps and slides, suitable even after rainfall. However, please note that there is a warning sign at Rotmoosbach stating that entering the canyon is strictly prohibited, despite commercial tours being offered.

The canyons are generally best visited during warmer months, from spring to autumn, when hiking trails are clear and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer days are particularly popular for visiting the Erlauf Gorge, as it's a great spot for cooling off and swimming. For canyoning, conditions depend on water levels, but Rotbach is known to withstand significant water, making it viable even after rainfall.

Yes, the region offers a variety of hiking trails. The Erlauf Gorge has a 3.8 km circular trail with an educational path, suitable for many visitors. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes in the wider Scheibbs area, including easy to difficult options. You can find more details on hiking routes in the region on the Hiking around Scheibbs guide.

Paid parking is available at the entrance to the Erlauf Gorge near the bowling alley in Purgstall. You can also find the Erlaufschlucht Visitor Center and Entrance in this area.

The Erlauf Gorge is a natural monument within the European protected area 'Niederösterreichische Voralpenflüsse' (Lower Austrian Pre-Alpine Rivers). It's recognized for its wild and romantic character, carved deep into glacial gravel deposits by the Erlauf River. Its deep green-turquoise water, towering conglomerate cliffs, and diverse flora and fauna contribute to its status as a protected and highly valued natural jewel.

Yes, the municipality of Purgstall an der Erlauf offers guided tours of the Erlauf Gorge. These tours are led by cultural and landscape mediators who introduce visitors to the unique flora and fauna of the gorge, providing a deeper understanding of its natural significance.

Beyond canyon exploration, the Scheibbs region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, ranging from easy to difficult, and extensive options for hiking and mountain hikes, including challenging summit ascents.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the refreshing experience. Many highlight the 'dream day' atmosphere, the clear, turquoise waters, and the impressive rock formations. The opportunity to cool off in the river during hot weather is also a popular draw. The Erlauf Gorge, in particular, is noted for its beautiful area and atmospheric waterside spots.

The 'Fischersteig' path within the Erlauf Gorge, which previously offered an up-close experience of the river, has been closed indefinitely since September 2024 due to heavy rain. While a beautiful hiking trail exists above it, it offers a less spectacular experience than the lower path.

Yes, the canyons feature several scenic spots. The Erlauf Gorge has romantic bridges and two viewing platforms along its circular trail, including the Romantic Bridge which offers fantastic views. The Wooden Walkway in Mendlingtal Gorge also provides views of bridges and waterfalls.