Echerntal Valley in Hallstatt – Experience the Unique Beauty
Why Visit Echerntal Valley in Hallstatt?
If you’re dreaming of a peaceful escape away from the tourist hustle of Hallstatt, the Echerntal Valley is your answer. Just minutes from the village center, this romantic valley welcomes you with majestic mountain peaks, dense alpine forests, and the incredible Waldbachstrub Waterfall.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or just your dog, the Echerntal trail offers a refreshing walk surrounded by nature’s best. It’s one of those hidden gems that even many locals haven’t explored fully.
Hiking in Echerntal – What to Expect
Trailhead and Route to Waldbachstrub Waterfall
The hike begins in Hallstatt, right from the tourist information center on the waterfront. A well-marked path takes you through the picturesque Echerntal Valley. The route is mostly flat and easy to follow, making it ideal for all age groups.
The last section of the trail includes a short climb – nothing too difficult, and definitely worth the effort for the views that await you.
🕒 Time needed: 1.5 to 2.5 hours round trip
📏 Distance: Approx. 5 km round trip
👟 Trail type: Easy to moderate
🐶 Dog-friendly: Yes
🚶 Family-friendly: Absolutely
🅿️ Tip: If you’re coming by car, check out our Hallstatt parking guide to find the best place to start your hike.
Review of Echerntal – valley of beauty
Such a beautiful and enchanting place for a peaceful hike . Its take around 1 hour and half from city center . Worth the scenery and serenity.
Echerntal valley and Waldbastrub waterfall is absolutely magical
From Hallstatt, right from the information center on the waterfront, there is a direct road to this wonderful waterfall. The road is mostly flat, only at the very end you have to climb a little. Even the road itself is quite picturesque, and the waterfall is generally wonderful. The trip there and back will take you about 2-3 hours.
One of the most beautiful walks in the area. Even the locals don’t know where to find it
Best Time to Visit Echerntal
Echerntal is beautiful year-round, each season offering something special:
❄️ Winter: Magical, but take caution. The trail may be slippery, and not all areas are maintained.
🌼 Spring: Fresh greenery, blooming wildflowers. A perfect time for a peaceful stroll.
➤ See more: Hallstatt in April – What to Expect ➤ See more: Hallstatt in May – What to Expect
☀️ Summer: Cool forest shade, ideal for families or hot days.
🍁 Autumn: Golden leaves and crisp air – Echerntal is at its most photogenic.
❄️ Winter: Magical, but take caution. The trail may be slippery, and not all areas are maintained.
Echerntal pictures
Map of Echerntal Valley
📍 Here’s the location of the trail and waterfall.
Start: Parking lot #2
End: Waldbachstrub Waterfall
Nearby Places to Explore
Hallstatt Glacier Garden, Skywalk & Rudolfsturm
If you’re in the mood for more adventure after Echerntal, consider a short walk or drive to the Hallstatt Glacier Garden — a lesser-known natural site filled with glacial potholes and alpine beauty.
From there, you can continue uphill to the iconic Skywalk Hallstatt, where breathtaking views of the lake and village await. After soaking in the scenery, treat yourself to a relaxing break or lunch with a view at Rudolfsturm — a historic tower turned restaurant perched above Hallstatt.
Hike to Plassen or Schneidkogel for Epic Alpine Views
Ambitious hikers looking for a more challenging route can extend their Echerntal adventure to Plassen or Schneidkogel — two of Hallstatt’s most scenic local peaks. Both hikes reward you with stunning panoramic views of the Dachstein range and Hallstatt from above.
On the way back or as a detour, don’t miss a stop at Rossalm Gosau — a quiet alpine rest area perfect for a scenic pause.
If you are planning to come from Gosau or, on the contrary, you are heading to Gosau, do not forget to stop at the beautiful Rossalm mountain hut. There you can not only recharge your batteries with rest, good food and drink, but also the views of the surroundings are worth it. An excellent stop for both MTB cyclists and hiking tourists
Final Tips: Rest and Recharge After Your Echerntal Hike
After enjoying Echerntal, why not relax at one of Hallstatt’s lakeside cafés or have lunch with a view? Or if you’re staying longer, plan your next hike to one of the surrounding Alpine huts or lakes in Gosau or Obertraun.
Echerntal is not just a place – it’s an experience. If you’re visiting Hallstatt, take the time to walk this quiet trail. Bring your camera, your curiosity, and maybe a snack for the bench by the waterfall.
Trust me — it’s one of the most peaceful corners of Hallstatt you’ll ever discover.
Hallstatt lies in the heart of the Salzkammergut region, one of Austria’s most beautiful lake districts, known for its blend of nature, culture, and history.
Still in the Mood to Explore? Hallstatt Has More to Offer
If you loved the peace and nature of Echerntal Valley, you’re in for a treat — Hallstatt and its surroundings are full of hidden gems perfect for hiking, biking, and relaxing.
☀️ Summer Activities
In the warmer months, cool off with a refreshing swim at the beach in Obertraun, or head up to the 5 Fingers viewpoint for jaw-dropping views over the Salzkammergut. And if you’re escaping the heat, don’t miss the magical underground world of the Dachstein caves on the way to Krippenstein.
🚴♂️ Active Adventures
Prefer something sporty? Ride the MTB trails around Hallstatt or try one of the region’s alpine hikes. From family-friendly paths to more challenging climbs, there’s something for every level.
🏞 Hidden Trails & Peaceful Escapes
Continue your nature journey with these scenic hikes:
- 🌲 Koppental Valley Hike – A peaceful route along rivers, old tunnels, and forest paths
- 🌼 Hallstatt in Spring – Discover how nature transforms the village in April
- 🌟 What to Do in Hallstatt – 9 Best Tips – From salt mines to lake cruises, it’s all here
❤️ Plan Your Perfect Hallstatt Holiday
Looking for a peaceful getaway, a family vacation, or an active alpine escape? Lake Hallstatt and its surroundings offer something for everyone — whether you’re staying for a few days or a full week.
With our local tips, you’ll discover quiet places, natural beauty, and memorable experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist spots.
👉 Start planning now with our complete Hallstatt travel guides!