The road to Kaprun reservoir, a chillout in high mountains

# Kaprun Hochgebirgsstauseen: Alpine Adventure Awaits

Perched at a breathtaking 2,038 meters (6,686 feet) in Austria's Salzburg region, the Kaprun Hochgebirgsstauseen reservoir is a hidden gem tucked into the eastern Alps within the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park.

The drive here is an exhilarating experience along the Mooserbodenstraße, a fully paved mountain road built back in 1938. Fair warning though—this route is only passable from late June or early July through late October, as heavy snow transforms it into an impassable ribbon of white during the colder months.

Starting from Lärchenwand Schrägaufzug Bergstation, you'll climb 6 kilometers (3.72 miles) through upper Kaprun Valley, gaining 417 meters of elevation along the way. The average gradient sits at about 7%, but don't let that fool you—the road ramps up to a jaw-dropping 17% in sections, making for some seriously steep switchbacks that demand respect and attentive driving.

This isn't your typical scenic cruise. The combination of extreme steepness, high altitude, and narrow hairpin turns means you'll need nerves of steel and solid driving skills. But for those willing to take on the challenge, the rewards are spectacular Alpine views and the satisfaction of conquering one of Austria's most impressive mountain roads.