The Protected Area
The Hohe Tauern National Park covers 1,856 km² and stretches across the Austrian province of Salzburg, Tyrol and Carinthia. In terms of area, it is the largest national park in the alps. In the core zone, the focus is on protecting natural processes. In the outer zone, one of the objectives is also to preserve the landscape shaped by alpine farming.
Marked by mountain formation and ice ages
The landscape of the Hohe Tauern National Park bears the marks of alpine mountain formation and the ice ages. Glaciers, water and weathering have created a diverse range of landforms and continue to shape the mountains to this day.
The Tauern Window offers insights into the geological structure of the Alps. A variety of rocks, soils and climatic conditions – ranging from oceanic to continental influences – form the basis for diverse habitats with their plant and animal communities.
The habitats range from mountain forests and alpine grasslands to rocky and glacial regions. Numerous peaks over 3,000 metres, mountain lakes and glaciers characterise the landscape. The highest peak is the Großglockner at 3,798 metres.
According to the National Park Authority, there are 551 mountain lakes in the National Park, with surface areas ranging from 35 m² to around 27 ha. Among the best-known lakes is the Kratzenbergsee in the Hollersbach Valley. The Pasterze at the foot of the Großglockner is Austria’s largest glacier. Its appearance is changing as a result of ongoing ice loss.
Experience the National Park
In summer, you can explore the National Park on hikes, guided ranger tours and themed trails. Depending on the route, the difficulty ranges from valley walks to challenging high-altitude hikes.
There are also opportunities to experience the National Park in winter. Snow, ice and the risk of avalanches require careful tour planning. The choice of route must be suited to the current weather and avalanche conditions, as well as to your own experience and equipment. Conservation regulations and designated wildlife quiet zones must be observed.
The legal framework for the National Park is set out in the respective provincial laws and regulations of Salzburg, Tyrol and Carinthia. The National Park authorities implement the conservation objectives through, amongst other things, natural area management, research, education and visitor information.
Further information on protected areas: National Park Law