Gerlos Pass, Mountain pass between Salzburg and Tyrol, Austria
Gerlos Pass is a mountain crossing in Austria that links the Oberpinzgau region in Salzburg with the Zillertal valley in Tyrol. The route climbs to an elevation of approximately 1,531 meters and is accessed via Federal Highway B 165.
The first recorded crossing of the pass dates to 1630. The modern road connecting both regions was completed in 1962, creating a permanent year-round link through Wald im Pinzgau.
The pass marks a cultural boundary where two Alpine regions maintain distinct dialects and local traditions on either side. Visitors notice these differences in village architecture, local celebrations, and craftsmanship that continue to define each area.
The road is passable year-round, though older sections restrict truck traffic. A toll applies to the newer road section running from Krimml to the pass summit.
The Durlaßboden reservoir sits on the western slope of the pass as part of a larger hydroelectric system. This storage lake powers the nearby Tauernkraftwerke facilities that generate electricity for the surrounding area.
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