Top 20 Lakes in High Tauern

The High Tauern region, often called the "water castle" of the Alps, boasts a diverse range of lakes. You can find the largest lake within the National Park, Kratzenbergsee, covering 27 hectares. Schwarzsee in Lungau is the deepest, reaching 56.8 meters, while Eissee is the highest at 2943 meters. The region also features unique phenomena like the periodic Schödersee, which only appears after heavy rainfall or snowmelt, and Sandersee, known for its dynamic delta formation near the Pasterze glacier.

Several lakes in High Tauern are associated with mountain huts, providing excellent opportunities for hikers and mountaineers. The Wangenitzsee Hut is idyllically located on the Wangenitzsee, offering overnight stays. Similarly, the Zittauer Hut is situated near Wildgerlos Lake, providing clean rooms and food. Another popular spot is the Zupalseehütte, which sits beside a crystal-clear mountain lake and is a favorite stopover on the Lasörling Höhenweg.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families and those seeking easier walks. Stappitzer Lake is wonderfully situated and considered family-friendly, offering a peaceful atmosphere. Hintersee, a natural monument, has a nature trail around its perimeter, perfect for leisurely walks. Grünsee is also ideal for relaxed strolls and picnics. For more easy hiking options, you can explore routes like the "Stappitzer Lake – Seebach Valley loop" which is an easy 5.5 km hike. Find more easy hikes in the region on the Easy hikes in High Tauern guide.

The lakes in High Tauern are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. Hiking is very popular, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging alpine routes. You can also find opportunities for gravel biking and cycling in the broader region. For example, the Gravel biking in High Tauern guide and the Cycling in High Tauern guide offer routes that often pass by or near these beautiful water bodies.

The best time to visit the High Tauern lakes for hiking and outdoor activities is generally from early June to early October. During this period, the mountain huts are typically open, and the weather is most favorable for exploring the trails. Some lakes, like the Zupalseehütte Lake, are specifically open during these months. Winter offers different activities, but for experiencing the lakes in their full alpine glory, the summer and early autumn months are ideal.

Yes, the High Tauern region is home to lakes with stunningly clear and colorful waters. Grünsee is known for its clear green waters, perfect for leisurely walks. Weißsee, situated above 2,000 meters, boasts incredibly clear, ice-cold waters set against dramatic surrounding peaks. The Wildgerlos Lake, near the Zittauer Hütte, is also noted for shining in a deep turquoise color on fine weather days, enhancing the alpine panorama.

Yes, the lakes and their surrounding areas are part of the Hohe Tauern National Park, which is rich in biodiversity. Stappitzer Lake, for instance, serves as an important resting station for migratory birds, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities. The pristine alpine environment around many of these lakes provides habitats for various alpine flora and fauna, making wildlife spotting a possibility during your visit.

For those looking for higher-altitude hikes, Weißsee, situated above 2,000 meters, serves as a popular starting point, offering panoramic views of the Hohe Tauern National Park. The Eissee, at 2943 meters, also provides breathtaking high-alpine views and a sense of accomplishment for hikers. Additionally, the Neue Reichenberger Hut, located near Bödensee, is a fantastic base for various summit tours in the Panargenkamm.

The High Tauern region holds several hidden gems. The periodic Schödersee is a unique phenomenon, appearing only after heavy rainfall or snowmelt, offering a rare spectacle. Bergersee, located at the Bergerseehütte, provides panoramic views and the unique opportunity for pedal boating in a beautiful setting. These lakes offer distinct experiences beyond typical alpine scenery.

Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning natural beauty and the sense of tranquility offered by the High Tauern lakes. Many appreciate the well-maintained mountain huts like the Zittauer Hut, praising their clean rooms and delicious food after a hike. The crystal-clear waters, dramatic alpine panoramas, and the opportunity for both challenging treks and leisurely walks are frequently highlighted by the komoot community.

Yes, the High Tauern region also features impressive reservoirs. Tauernmoossee in the Stubach Valley is a notable reservoir with an impressive dam. It's a popular spot for an intermediate hike, offering incredible mountain views, particularly a loop from Einzigerboden to Tauernmoossee and back down to Grünsee.

Tappenkarsee is considered one of the largest mountain lakes in the Eastern Alps and is particularly known for its dramatic setting, surrounded by sheer rock walls. This makes it a captivating destination for those seeking powerful alpine scenery and impressive geological formations.