4.7
(1499)
8,981
hikers
15
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein are set within Austria's Hohe Tauern National Park, characterized by a dramatic high-alpine landscape. The region features majestic 3,000-meter peaks, glacier streams, and waterfalls. The Kölnbrein Reservoir and the 200-meter-tall Kölnbrein Dam are prominent features, with the dam serving as a common starting point for many routes.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
4.8
(36)
262
hikers
8.71km
02:28
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(29)
282
hikers
5.45km
01:32
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.2
(9)
29
hikers
8.70km
03:52
520m
510m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
21
hikers
1.16km
00:30
100m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
1.76km
00:29
30m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Kölnbreinsperre is a profoundly impressive highlight high above the Maltatal and the undisputed heart of Austria's highest dam. Via the hairpin bends of the Malta-Hochalmstraße, you reach the huge Kölnbrein reservoir. Directly on the dam crest, the Berghotel Malta with its viewing restaurant and the informative experience exhibition “Verbund-Energiewelt” invite you to take a break. A real thrill is the “Airwalk”. A glass viewing platform that juts out freely over the vertical dam into the depths.
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Free parking. Perfect starting point for hikes. Restrooms available.
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Free of charge. There are two parking spaces directly at the dam. Restrooms are available. Perfect starting point for a walk over the dam and the Airwalk or to the adventure trail.
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A fantastic day at the Kölnbrein Dam! Super modern fitness trail for kids with a premium view. Almost entirely suitable for children under 3 years old with good motor skills. The kids can test their skills on the balance beam, balance beam, stone jumper, Tibetan bridge, spider web, and mini via ferrata, among other things. Can be reached from the parking lot in under 5 minutes. At the end of the summit trail, a fantastic view of the Kölnbrein Dam awaits you.
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The Salzgittersteig Trail (545) connects the Kölnbrein Dam with the Kattowitzer Hut. Walking time is approximately 3 hours, according to the signpost.
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Adventure trail in alpine terrain with motor skills stations, a via ferrata station on natural rock, and alpine hiking trail sections. Target group: Families with children ages 6 and up Duration of the hike: approximately 1 hour
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...impressive what they have built there! 👀
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There are 14 hiking trails accessible directly from bus stations around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein. These routes cater to various fitness levels, including 4 easy, 8 moderate, and 2 difficult options.
The bus-accessible hikes around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein offer dramatic high-alpine landscapes. You'll encounter majestic 3,000-meter peaks, rushing glacier streams, and the serene Kölnbrein Reservoir itself, reflecting the surrounding mountains. The trails often provide stunning views of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Yes, several easy routes are perfect for families. For instance, the Kölnbreinsperre Dam – View of the Ankogel Group loop from Kölnbrein Dam is an easy option. Another great choice is the Kölnbrein Dam – Airwalk at the Kölnbrein Dam loop from Kölnbrein Dam, which is short and features the impressive Airwalk viewing platform.
Many trails offer access to remarkable sights. You can visit the impressive Kölnbreinsperre Dam, Austria's tallest dam, and experience the Airwalk at the Kölnbrein Dam for panoramic views. You might also encounter the beautiful Waterfall at Kölnbreinspeicher and the Rushing Glacier Stream.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same bus stop. An example is the Kölnbrein Dam – Rushing Glacier Stream loop from Kölnbrein Dam, a moderate hike offering diverse scenery.
The best time to hike in the high-alpine region of Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein is generally from late spring to early autumn (June to September). During this period, the Malta Hochalmstraße, which provides bus access, is typically open, and the weather conditions are most favorable for hiking, with less snow and milder temperatures.
Dogs are generally welcome on hiking trails in the Hohe Tauern National Park, but specific rules apply, especially regarding leashing and waste disposal. It's always best to check local regulations for the specific trail you plan to hike. Be mindful of wildlife and other hikers.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 1400 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking high-alpine scenery, the impressive engineering of the Kölnbrein Dam, and the well-maintained trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks and reservoir.
Absolutely. A popular moderate option is the Kölnbrein Dam – View of the Ankogel Group loop from Kölnbrein Dam, which offers rewarding views and a good challenge. Another excellent choice is the View of the Ankogel Group – Krumpenkar loop from Kölnbrein Dam, providing varied terrain and beautiful vistas.
The area around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein offers several options for refreshments. The Berghotel Malta, located near the dam, provides a comfortable base with a panoramic restaurant. Additionally, the Kölnbreinstüberl offers a cozy spot for hikers to rest and refuel with local delicacies.
Yes, near the Berghotel Malta, there is a unique adventure trail designed for families. It features 14 interactive stations with climbing elements like a Tibetan bridge, mini via ferrata, and balance beams, providing a fun and engaging way for children to experience 'climbing' in a safe environment.


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