Krippenstein Obertraun: Cable Car, Five Fingers, Bahn, Ski Guide

Krippenstein in Austria is one of those rare places where every turn offers a postcard-perfect view. Located above the village of Obertraun in the Dachstein Salzkammergut region, this mountain is more than just a peak — it’s a gateway to dramatic alpine landscape.

From the Krippenstein Seilbahn (cable car) that lifts you high above the valley to panoramic spots like the Welterbespirale, Five Fingers viewpoint and Dachstein Shark, this mountain experience is as accessible as it is breathtaking. It’s one of the best day trips from Hallstatt — or even better, a full-day alpine escape on its own.

Where is Krippenstein and How to Get There?

Krippenstein sits high above the village of Obertraun, in the heart of the Dachstein Mountains. It’s part of the Upper Austrian Salzkammergut and belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage region.

I remember standing at the valley station in Obertraun, looking up at the steep cliffs. It felt like the mountains were calling. Just 15 minutes from Hallstatt by car, it’s easy to reach — and totally worth the trip.

By Car 🚗

Driving is the fastest and most flexible way. From Hallstatt, it’s a short 5–10 minute ride across the lake to Obertraun. You’ll follow the signs for “Dachstein Krippenstein Seilbahn”, and soon you’ll see the large parking lot near the cable car station.

If you’re coming from Bad Goisern, drive south along the B166 and then follow signs to Obertraun. It takes around 20 minutes.

From Salzburg, the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. I took this route once in late spring, and the scenery along Lake Wolfgang and through the mountains was breathtaking. From Vienna, expect around 3.5 hours on the road.

By Public Transport 🚌

The train ride from Salzburg to Obertraun-Dachsteinhöhlen Bahnhof is scenic and relaxing. I once did this in autumn. From the station, it’s about 30-minute walk to the cable car or jump on local bus.

You can also take a bus from Bad Ischl or Hallstatt to Obertraun. Just check the OÖVV schedule in advance, especially outside summer.

Public transport tip: if you’re planning multiple mountain trips, grab the ÖBB Vorteilscard or the Salzkammergut Erlebniscard for discounts on trains, buses, and lifts.

Parking at the Cable Car Station 🚡

There’s a large, free parking lot right at the base station in Obertraun. Even during the busy summer months, I always found a spot there. It’s safe, paved, and just steps from the ticket office. Just arrive early in peak season to beat the tour buses.

Krippenstein Cable Car – Your Ride to the Top

If you want a mountain view without a tough hike, the Krippenstein cable car is your answer. It’s a beautiful and fast way up, the views are amazing. The higher you go, the more the world opens up beneath you — lake, cliffs, glaciers, and silence.

I’ve taken this ride several times now. Every time, it feels like a fresh adventure. Here’s what you should know before boarding.

🚡 Three Cable Car Sections Explained

The Dachstein Krippenstein cable car runs in three stages. You don’t have to take them all — but each one brings something different.

🧊 Section I: Obertraun ➝ Schönbergalm

This is where your journey begins. From the base station in Obertraun, the first section takes you to Schönbergalm. It’s a great spot for families. Here you can visit the Dachstein Ice Cave and Mammut Cave, or grab a coffee at the café near the cave entrance.

The ride up is smooth, and the views are already impressive. Forests fall away behind you, and the first cliffs come into sight.

⛰️ Section II: Schönbergalm ➝ Krippenstein

This is the real deal. You glide up past towering rock walls to the Krippenstein summit station. When you step out, you’re above the clouds. From here, you can walk to 5 Fingers, Dachstein Shark, and Welterbespirale.

This section is my favorite. I always try to catch the morning light — it makes the peaks glow.

🥾 Section III: Krippenstein ➝ Gjaidalm

This last section opens in early summer. It takes you to Gjaidalm, where alpine trails begin. You can hike to Simonyhütte, stay overnight in a mountain lodge, or just enjoy the high plateau.

The terrain here is more rugged, perfect for seasoned hikers. But the views are open, wild, and peaceful.

🎟️ Krippenstein Cable Car Prices & Tickets (2025 Season)

For the 2025 summer season, there are a few ticket types. Prices vary slightly between online and on-site purchases. I usually book online — it’s cheaper, and I skip the line.

Dachstein All-in-One Ticket

This is the best option if you plan to use all sections and visit the caves. It includes unlimited rides on Sections I–III and entrance to Ice + Mammut Caves.

• Adult: €64.30 online / €65.90 at the desk
• Child: €35.40 online
• Senior: €61.10 online

You can also get an afternoon version (valid from 12 PM or 1 PM), which is slightly cheaper.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Discounts

Family combos are available. For example:

• 1 parent + 1 child: from €90.80 (All-in-One)
• 2 parents + 2 kids: from €175.20

I’ve used the family ticket before — it’s worth it if you’re exploring more than just one section.

🐶 Dog and Stroller Tickets

Dogs are welcome! My friend’s dog loved the ride — but keep them on a leash at all times.

Strollers are allowed on Section I and II. The platforms are wide, and the paths around 5 Fingers are manageable with a good pram. I saw several families pushing strollers to the viewpoints.

🛒 Where to Buy Tickets

Get your tickets on the official Dachstein Salzkammergut website — they’re cheaper there, and you can pick your dates. You’ll also find combo deals and info about guided cave tours.

🕐 Timetable and Local Tips

The cable car operates in summer from 1 May to early November (depending on weather).

• Section I + II reopen on 1 May 2025
• Section III to Gjaidalm starts 7 June 2025
• Caves open 10 May 2025

Check the daily schedule before you go. Bad weather (especially wind) can cause delays.

☀️ Tips From My Visits

I always go early. The first ride up is usually quiet — no lines, and golden light over the mountains. By late morning, it can get busy, especially in July and August.

If you want that peaceful “just me and the Alps” feeling, aim for the first cable car. It’s absolutely worth the early wake-up.

🐾 Can You Bring Dogs, Strollers, or Bikes?

Yes — and many people do!

🐕 Dogs

Dogs need a muzzle and leash. You’ll pay a small fee per ride, or get the summer season dog pass if you’re visiting multiple times.

There are water bowls at some stations. And yes — they’re allowed up to 5 Fingers too!

👶 Strollers

Most of the main areas are accessible with strollers. I’ve seen parents take prams as far as Welterbespirale. The path to 5 Fingers is a bit rocky near the end, but still doable with an all-terrain stroller.

🚴‍♂️ Bikes

Want to ride back down the mountain? You can bring a bike up on the cable car. Section II is especially popular for this.

There’s a thrilling bike descent from Krippenstein to Obertraun — but it’s for experienced riders only. I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s on my list!

Top Things to Do on Krippenstein

Krippenstein isn’t just a viewpoint — it’s a mountain full of surprises. From dramatic platforms to alpine huts and hidden caves, this area is perfect for a full-day (or multi-day) adventure. I’ve explored most of it across different seasons, and there’s always something new to love.

👣 Walk to the Five Fingers Viewpoint from Krippenstein

This is the star of the show. From Krippenstein cable car station, it’s about a 25-minute alpine walk to reach 5 Fingers. The trail is easy and panoramic. You’ll pass patches of snow even in June.

Each “finger” offers a slightly different thrill — glass floors, steel grates, and dizzying views down to Lake Hallstatt. I still remember standing there with the wind in my face, watching low clouds roll beneath my feet. Unreal.

❄️ Explore the Dachstein Ice Cave and Mammoth Cave

These caves are a must, especially if you’re visiting with kids or on a hot summer day.

• The Ice Cave is filled with frozen sculptures and glowing blue light.
• The Mammoth Cave is bigger and wilder, with massive chambers and an ancient underground feel.

Tours start from Schönbergalm, just after the first cable car ride. I recommend wearing a jacket — even in July, it’s cold down there!

🦈 Visit the Dachstein Shark – A Fun Stop Near 5 Fingers

Just before you reach 5 Fingers, there’s a giant steel shark poking out of the mountain. It’s quirky, unexpected, and kids love it. You can walk into its jaws and snap a photo with the Alps behind you.

I wasn’t sure what to expect the first time I saw it — but it’s now one of my favorite photo stops. Plus, the views from here stretch toward Gosaukamm and the Dachstein glacier.

📸 Take Photos at the World Heritage Spiral

On the way to 5 Fingers, stop at the Welterbespirale. It’s a circular viewing platform with a metal spiral sculpture at the top — kind of like a mini UFO above the Alps.

The views here are wide and peaceful. I once came early in the morning and had it all to myself. Perfect spot for 360° panoramas.

🛖 Relax at Lodge am Krippenstein or Gjaid Alm

Want a break with a view? You’ve got two great alpine lodges to choose from:

• Lodge am Krippenstein is near the summit station — perfect for a drink or hot soup with mountain views.
• Gjaid Alm is a bit further (via Section III cable car), and it feels more remote. I once spent a night here — the stars were amazing.

Both serve hearty Austrian food and have sun terraces. If you’re not in a rush, it’s a great way to slow down and soak in the atmosphere.

🥾 Hike to Simonyhütte Mountain Hut from Krippenstein

Feeling adventurous? Continue your hike from 5 Fingers toward Simonyhütte, one of the classic high-alpine huts in the Dachstein range.

The trail takes around 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on conditions. It’s rocky, open, and stunning — especially in late summer when the wildflowers bloom. I did it once in early autumn, and the light on the glacier was unreal.

You can stay overnight at Simonyhütte too — a true alpine experience.

🧗‍♂️ Krippenstein Via Ferrata – Däumelkogel Klettersteig

Looking for something with more adrenaline? Try the Däumelkogel Klettersteig, a via ferrata (climbing route) on the Krippenstein massif.

It’s rated B/C, so it’s great for beginners or intermediate climbers with a head for heights. You’ll need proper gear — helmet, harness, and via ferrata set.

The route gives you sweeping views over the valley, and parts of it are exposed in the best way. I’ve done it once — it was challenging, but super rewarding.

🪂 Krippenstein Paragliding – Fly Over the Salzkammergut

If you want the ultimate Alpine adrenaline rush, paragliding from Krippenstein is it. The launch area is right near the upper cable car station — I’ve watched paragliders take off into the clouds, soaring above Lake Hallstatt and the Dachstein peaks.

You can book tandem flights with certified local pilots. No experience needed — just courage and good weather. I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s high on my list. Imagine gliding silently over the lake with that insane mountain backdrop!

Tip: Morning flights offer calmer winds and clearer skies.

🎿 Krippenstein Skiing – Winter Magic Above Hallstatt

In winter, Krippenstein transforms into a laid-back but legendary ski area. It’s not your typical groomed resort — it’s for powder lovers, ski tourers, and freeriders.

You won’t find fancy après-ski parties here. Instead, you get wide-open slopes, one 11km long one, epic views, and natural snow. I skied here one March — light snowflakes falling, barely any people around, just me, the mountain, and some of the best snow I’ve ever ridden.

Krippenstein is home to its longest ski slope, an impressive 11 km run that combines red and blue difficulty levels, making it ideal for both intermediate and confident skiers. Beginning at an elevation of 2,100 meters, the slope descends 1,440 meters in altitude with an average gradient of 13%, offering a thrilling yet scenic downhill experience.

My day at Dachstein Krippenstein in Winter

You can rent skis or snowboards at the base in Obertraun and grab a winter lift pass for the full mountain.

🎿 Krippenstein Freeride Arena – Pure Off-Piste Adventure

Krippenstein is famous for its Freeride Arena — untouched powder, and natural terrain. It’s a paradise for experienced skiers and snowboarders.

There are no trees here, just big, wide alpine bowls. You can follow the “Angeralm” or “Imisl” routes, or hire a guide to explore further.

If you’re into off-piste skiing — this place is a dream. The terrain is wild, the views are unbeatable, and the powder? So good, people call it one of Austria’s best hidden ski gems.

🌤️ Krippenstein Live, Webcam & Weather – Check Before You Go

Before heading up to Krippenstein, always check the Krippenstein live webcam and mountain weather forecast. Conditions can change fast — what starts as a clear morning can turn into thick fog within minutes.

I’ve made that mistake once. I jumped on the cable car without checking the weather. By the time I got to the top? Complete whiteout. No views, no 5 Fingers, no photos. Just clouds and disappointment.

Where to Stay and Eat in Obertraun

Obertraun is the perfect base for visiting Krippenstein. It’s peaceful, close to nature, and just steps away from the cable car. I’ve stayed here many times — and each visit confirmed it’s way more relaxing than crowded Hallstatt.

🛏️ Best Hotels and Lodges Near the Seilbahn

You’ll find several places to stay within walking distance of the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car:

• Dormio Resort Obertraun – Perfect for families or longer stays. Spacious chalets, a wellness center, and views of the lake. I stayed here one autumn — waking up to fog rising off the water was pure magic.
• Obertrauner Hof Hotel – A locally-run gem with a warm atmosphere. The owners know everything about hiking routes and local tips. Great breakfast too!
• Jutel Obertraun – Budget-friendly and great for early morning starts. It’s basic but cozy — and you’ll reach the Seilbahn in just a few minutes on foot.
• Camping Obertraun – I have to be honest: I wouldn’t recommend camping here. The location’s great, but the facilities need serious improvement. Read my full review to see why.

If you love outdoor activities, check out my full guide:
👉 Obertraun – Swimming, Hiking, Skiing & Ice Caves

🍽️ Café or Lunch at the Cable Car Station

Right at the valley station, there’s a small café that’s perfect for a quick coffee or snack before your ride up. I often grab a cappuccino and sit outside to enjoy the morning sun while waiting for the first cable car.

They also serve:

• Light lunches like soup, sausages, or goulash
• Pastries and sandwiches
• Cold beer or Almdudler for the post-hike chill

Not fancy, but convenient and cozy — especially with views of the mountains all around.

Nearby Attractions

While Krippenstein itself is an unforgettable destination, it’s also perfectly located near some of the Salzkammergut’s biggest highlights. After exploring the 5 Fingers, caves, or alpine trails, why not plan a few nearby adventures too?

🏘️ Hallstatt – The Famous Lakeside Village

Just 10 minutes by car from Obertraun — or one scenic ferry ride across the lake — you’ll find Hallstatt. It’s picture-perfect, but often crowded. My tip? Visit early in the morning or in the evening when the day-trippers are gone. The glow on the lake at sunset is unreal.

📌 Want to explore more?
👉 Complete Hallstatt Guide – What to See & Do

🏞️ Gosausee – Turquoise Lakes & Glacier Views

About a 30-minute drive from Obertraun, the Gosau lakes are absolutely worth it. You’ll walk along glacier-fed waters, stare up at the Dachstein peaks, and maybe even paddleboard Vorderer gosausee or boat if the weather’s right. I’ve been here in both summer and winter — it’s stunning all year round.

📌 Check out my complete lake guide here:
👉 Gosausee – Ultimate Guide to the Gosau Lakes

🚶‍♂️ Koppental Valley – Underrated, Quiet & Beautiful

Tucked between Obertraun and Bad Aussee, the Koppental trail is one of my favorite peaceful hikes. Think old railway tunnels, suspension bridges, and river views. Great for families or anyone who wants a flat, scenic walk.

📌 Get the full trail tips here:
👉 Koppental – Wonderful Hike Through the Valley

🏖️ Strandbad Obertraun – Swim With a View

Need a break from hiking and sightseeing? Go for a swim at Strandbad Obertraun. It’s a lakeside beach just a few minutes from the cable car station. You’ll get mountain views while floating in Lake Hallstatt — pure bliss in summer.

📌 Full details here:
👉 Obertraun Beach – Swimming & Relaxing by the Lake

Krippenstein FAQ

🥾 How long does it take to climb the Krippenstein?

Hiking from Obertraun to the summit takes 4–6 hours, depending on your route, fitness, and conditions. It’s a serious alpine hike — bring good shoes and check the weather.

🚠 How do I get to the Krippenstein?

Take the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car from Obertraun. The valley station is easy to reach by car, train, or bus from Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, or Salzburg.

💶 How much does a ride up and down the Krippenstein cost?

A round-trip ticket for adults using all three cable car sections is €65.90 at the ticket desk (2025). Family and online discounts are available.

🥾 Can you hike up the Krippenstein?

Yes, but it’s a long and challenging route. Most people take the cable car up and hike from there to spots like 5 Fingers or Simonyhütte.

🏔️ How high is the Krippenstein?

Krippenstein reaches 2,108 meters (6,916 feet) above sea level.

🕒 How long does the Krippenstein cable car run?

It runs daily from 8:40 AM to 4:50 PM in summer (Sections I & II from 1 May 2025, Section III from 7 June). Always check the official schedule before your visit.