Großer Gosaugletscher, Alpine glacier in Gosau, Austria
The Großer Gosaugletscher is an alpine glacier located on the northern section of the Dachstein mountain range. It consists of interconnected ice fields that slope downward across multiple elevation zones within the high mountain region.
The glacier reached its maximum documented size around 1848-1849, when Friedrich Simony recorded its extent during his mountaineering research. Since that time, the ice mass has progressively diminished and withdrawn upslope.
The Adamekhütte mountain hut at the glacier's base has long served climbers and hikers as a meeting point and shelter during alpine expeditions. It reflects how visitors engage with this high-altitude landscape and the traditions of mountain travel in the region.
Access to the glacier requires mountaineering experience and proper alpine equipment, as the high elevation and terrain present serious challenges. The Adamekhütte serves as the main base for anyone planning to visit or explore this area.
Meltwater from the glacier drains through an underground cave system rather than flowing over the surface, a result of the limestone bedrock's porous nature. This underground drainage pattern makes it a distinctive example of a karst glacier.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
