360 ° panorama
HINTERSEE IN THE FELBERTAL, MITTERSILL
Nestled in a picturesque setting between steep rock walls is the Hintersee, elevation 1,313 m above sea level. This mountain lake was created in 1495 after an enormous rock fall. Around 550 m in length and as much as 10 m deep, it is the biggest of Mittersill’s lakes. Its water is so clear, that you can actually see all the way to the bottom.
The Hintersee, together with its beautiful backdrop of forests, high pastures and rock faces furrowed by countless avalanches, was declared a natural monument by the Salzburg State Parliament in 1933.
A popular excursion destination in its own right, the Hintersee also serves as the starting point for hikes to the Plattsee, Langsee and Obersee. Via these three picturesque cirque lakes, the hiker finally reaches the St. Pöltener Hut, a hikers’ refuge run by the Alpine Association.
A beautiful stretch on the northern side leads along a National Park Nature Trail high above the Hintersee. Located nearby is the Gasthaus Gamsblick, promising well-earned rest and refreshments, along with great views of the lake and out towards the valley head of the Felbertal. With a little luck and binoculars, you might even catch sight of a roaming chamois. Families with small children can also reach the Hintersee by car.
Excursion Option
>> Hintersee Nature Trail
Starting Point: Mittersill
Trail Time: 1 to 2 hrs.
Best Time: beginning of May until early October
Requirements: Easy family hike; sturdy shoes required.
Description:
The Hintersee, created by a rock fall in 1495, is a focal element of the basin at the Felbertal’s valley head.
A nature trail along the northern shore of the Hintersee, featuring 10 info boards along the way, highlights unusual natural features in this section of the valley. The trail takes visitors past spruce trees that have been toppled by the wind, to the shore of the lake itself. Now gradually ascending, the trail leads us up onto the talus, formed by the original rock fall and now used for summer grazing. The shorter trail leads directly back to the car park.
