Salzachdurchbruch, Water gap at Salzach River in Überackern and Hochburg-Ach, Austria
The Salzachdurchbruch is a water gap where the Salzach River has carved a narrow passage through layers of rock, creating towering vertical cliffs. The river continues to flow through this deep gorge, revealing the geological structure built up over millions of years.
The Salzach River has carved this gorge over millions of years by continuously eroding the rock layers beneath its surface. Human intervention became necessary during severe flooding events, when embankments and barriers were built to manage water flow.
Multiple caves within the cliffs house protected species including Aesculapian snakes, jackdaws, bats, and eagle owls, making it an ecological preservation site.
A walking trail begins at the Waldgasthaus Naturfreunde parking area in Duttendorf and leads through the forest down to the river gorge. The path is manageable but requires sturdy footwear and basic fitness level to navigate safely.
The cliff walls contain fossilized leaf imprints and coal seams that date back 4 million years to an ancient era. These remains provide evidence of swamp forests that once thrived in this area, revealing a completely different landscape from the past.
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