5 Fingers Obertraun Austria – Stunning Alpine Viewpoint

5 Fingers Obertraun Austria – I’ve been there several times — and every visit still takes my breath away. The walk to the viewpoint is easy, but the view? Absolutely unreal. You stand on a metal platform, 400 meters above the valley, looking out over Lake Hallstatt, the Dachstein mountains, and the Salzkammergut below.

What Is the 5 Fingers Obertraun Austria Viewpoint?

High above Obertraun on Mount Krippenstein, the 5 Fingers viewpoint is one of the most dramatic platforms in the Alps. It’s free to visit and incredibly easy to reach by cable car. Once you’re there, you’ll see why it’s become such a must-visit spot in the Dachstein region.

Each “finger” stretches out like a hand over the cliff. It feels like you’re floating. I remember standing there in the morning light, just me and the mountains. Cold air, silence, and that wide open view — it’s something I’ll never forget.

5 Fingers is more than just a viewpoint. It’s an experience. And if you’re coming to Obertraun, especially with the cable car so close, don’t skip it.

Why Is It Called the 5 Fingers?

Simple. The platform has five narrow walkways — like fingers reaching out into the sky. Each one offers a slightly different view or design. Some have glass floors, others are open grids. One has a photo frame. They’re all built to give you that thrilling feeling of standing right above the valley.

And yes, it looks just like a giant steel hand hanging off the edge of the mountain.

Design of the Five Fingers Obertraun in the Dachstein Alps, Austria

The structure is modern, bold, and built for views. It’s about 4 meters long per “finger,” with safety railings and open sections that really let you connect with the height. But don’t worry — it’s solid. I’ve walked across it in all seasons, and it always felt safe.

The platform was designed to blend with the rugged beauty of the Alps while still giving you that adrenaline rush. It’s especially stunning when the clouds hang low in the valley and you’re standing above them.

Who Should Visit 5 Fingers Obertraun Austria – Families, Hikers & Nature Lovers

Honestly? Anyone. I’ve seen families with kids, older couples, solo hikers, and groups of friends all enjoying the spot. The path from the cable car station is well-marked and fairly flat — about a 20-minute walk. Even in light snow, it’s doable.

If you love views, nature, or photography, you’ll love it here. And if you’re hiking or skiing on Krippenstein, it’s just a short detour. This spot is for everyone who wants to feel small in the best possible way.

Each “finger” stretches out like a hand over the cliff. It feels like you’re floating. I remember standing there in the morning light, just me and the mountains. Cold air, silence, and that wide open view — it’s something I’ll never forget.

How to Get to 5 Fingers Viewpoint in Obertraun Austria – Cable Car & Hiking Options

I’ve done this route several times now, and whether you’re driving in or using public transport, getting to 5 Fingers is easier than you’d think — and part of the fun. The adventure starts in Obertraun, a peaceful lakeside village beneath the Dachstein Mountains.

Reaching Obertraun and the Dachstein Krippenstein Cable Car

If you’re coming from Hallstatt, it’s just a short 5-minute drive or 10-minute bus ride to Obertraun Dachsteinhöhlen Station. Trains also stop right in Obertraun if you’re arriving from Bad Ischl or Attnang-Puchheim.

I usually park near the cable car station — it’s simple, spacious, and free.

Check out my detailed Obertraun post here:
👉 Obertraun – Swimming, Hiking, Skiing & Ice Caves — I share all my favorite local tips.

Parking in Obertraun and Nearby Transport Tips

Right next to the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car station, there’s a large, paved parking lot that’s usually free of charge. It’s safe and just a short walk to the ticket booth.

In case you’re staying overnight in Dormio Resort or Jutel Obertraun, you’re already nearby. I once stayed at Jutel Obertraun — basic but cozy, and perfect for early morning starts.

Public transport tip: if you’re planning multiple mountain trips, grab the ÖBB Vorteilscard or the Salzkammergut Erlebniscard for discounts on trains, buses, and lifts.

Taking the Cable Car to 5 Fingers on Mount Krippenstein

To reach the 5 Fingers viewpoint, you’ll take the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car in Obertraun — one of my favorite rides in Austria. It feels more like a scenic flight than public transport. There are three sections, but for 5 Fingers, you’ll need just the first two.

Starting 1 May 2025, sections 1 and 2 reopen for summer. These take you up to:

• Schönbergalm – base for the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave and Koppenbrüller Cave
• Krippenstein Station – the launch point for 5 Fingers, Welterbespirale, Dachstein Shark and more viewpoints

🥾 From Krippenstein Station, it’s about a 20–30 minute alpine walk to 5 Fingers. I’ve done it in early summer — patches of snow still linger, but the trail is well-marked and stunning. You’ll feel like you’re walking through the clouds.

Want more? From 7 June 2025, section 3 (Gjaid station) opens, perfect if you’re heading toward Simonyhütte, Gjaidalm Lodge, or looking for a high alpine hike.

Ticket Prices, Opening Times & Booking Tips

🎟️ Summer Season 2025 Highlights:

• 01 May 2025 – Start of operation for sections 1 + 2
• 10 May 2025 – Mammut Cave opens
• 07 June 2025 – Section 3 (Gjaid Station) opens
• Caves, nature parks, gastronomy, and viewpoints are included

Here are the ticket prices for Dachstein Krippenstein for the summer season 2025, which runs from May 1 to November 2.​

🎟️ Single Tickets

Dachstein Cave Ticket
Includes cable car ascent & descent (Section 1) and guided tours of both the Ice and Mammut Caves:​

• Adult: €48.70 online / €49.90 at the ticket desk
• Youth (born 2007–2009): €43.80 online / €45.00 at the ticket desk
• Child (born 2010–2019): €26.80 online / €27.50 at the ticket desk
• Senior: €46.30 online / €47.50 at the ticket desk

Dachstein All in One-Ticket
Includes unlimited ascents and descents on all three cable car sections in one day, plus guided tours of both the Ice and Mammut Caves:​

• Adult: €64.30 online / €65.90 at the ticket desk
• Youth: €57.90 online / €59.40 at the ticket desk
• Child: €35.40 online / €36.30 at the ticket desk
• Senior: €61.10 online / €62.70 at the ticket desk

Dachstein All in One-Ticket Afternoon
Valid for unlimited ascents and descents on all three cable car sections in one day, plus a guided tour of either the Ice or Mammut Cave. Available from 12 PM or 1 PM, depending on the date:​

• Adult: €60.40 online / €62.00 at the ticket desk
• Youth: €54.40 online / €55.80 at the ticket desk
• Child: €33.20 online / €34.10 at the ticket desk
• Senior: €57.40 online / €58.90 at the ticket desk

Koppenbrüller Cave Ticket
Includes a guided tour of the Koppenbrüller Cave:​

• Adult: €18.30 online / €18.80 at the ticket desk
• Youth: €16.50 online / €16.90 at the ticket desk
• Child: €10.10 online / €10.30 at the ticket desk
• Senior: €17.40 online / €17.80 at the ticket desk

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Tariffs

Special family rates are available for the Dachstein Panorama-Ticket, Dachstein Cave Ticket, and Dachstein All in One-Ticket. Prices vary based on the number of parents and children. For example:​

• Dachstein Panorama-Ticket (includes ascent & descent with all 3 cable cars):
  • 1 parent + 1 child: €64.00 online / €65.60 at the ticket desk
  • 2 parents + 2 children: €123.50 online / €126.60 at the ticket desk
• Dachstein Cave Ticket (includes cable car ascent & descent – Section 1, and guided tours of both the Ice and Mammut Caves):
  • 1 parent + 1 child: €68.70 online / €70.50 at the ticket desk
  • 2 parents + 2 children: €132.60 online / €136.10 at the ticket desk
• Dachstein All in One-Ticket (includes unlimited ascents and descents on all three cable car sections in one day, plus guided tours of both the Ice and Mammut Caves):
  • 1 parent + 1 child: €90.80 online / €93.10 at the ticket desk
  • 2 parents + 2 children: €175.20 online / €179.70 at the ticket desk

Family tickets are available for various combinations of parents and children. For detailed pricing based on your family composition, please refer to the official pricing PDF.

👥 Group Tariffs

Discounted rates are available for groups. For example:​

• Dachstein Cave Ticket:
  • Adult: €46.40
  • Youth: €40.00
  • Children/Pupils: €25.00
• Dachstein All in One-Ticket:
  • Adult: €61.30
  • Youth: €52.80
  • Children/Pupils: €33.00

Group tariffs apply to parties meeting specific criteria. For detailed information on group rates and eligibility, please refer to the official group tariffs page.

🐾 Dog Tickets

For single cable car rides, a tariff per dog applies according to the prices of the respective cable car location. Additionally, a Dachstein Salzkammergut season pass for dogs is available:​

• Presale (until 31 May 2025): €83.00
• Regular tariff (from 1 June 2025): €105.00

This pass allows your dog to accompany you on the cable cars across multiple locations throughout the summer season.

💡 Additional Information

• Discounts: Holders of the KlimaTicket Österreich receive a 10% discount on the “Dachstein Panorama-Ticket” at the ticket office.
• Online Shop: Tickets for the 2025 summer season are available

🗺️ Map of Cable Car Stations and Walking Routes

There are three main cable car sections:

1. Section I: Obertraun ➝ Schönbergalm
   • Access to the Ice Cave, Nature Park, and cave ticket center
   • Also great for families and quick visits
2. Section II: Schönbergalm ➝ Krippenstein Station
   • This is your stop for the 5 Fingers, Welterbespirale, Dachstein Shark and Paragliding
3. Section III: Krippenstein ➝ Gjaidalm (opens 7 June 2025)
   • Great if you want to continue to Simonyhütte, stay overnight at Gjaidalm Lodge, or explore longer trails

🥾 Walking Route to 5 Fingers:
From Krippenstein Station, follow the wide gravel path marked “5fingers.” It’s a gentle uphill walk (about 20–30 minutes), with panoramic views and some rest benches on the way. Even my kids loved it.

For more walking and trail inspiration, check out my post on:
👉 Hallstatt Alps – A Journey Through Breathtaking Scenery

❄️ Explore the Dachstein Ice Cave and Mammoth cave

The Dachstein Giant Ice Cave is one of the coolest (literally) experiences in the area. Inside, frozen waterfalls and massive chambers make it feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy world.

🧊 Guided tours start from Schönbergalm, just a short walk from the first cable car station. It’s great for kids and adults alike — and a perfect stop before heading up to 5 Fingers.

Right nearby, you’ll also find the Mammoth Cave (Mammuthöhle), another natural wonder of the Dachstein region. Unlike the icy chambers of the Ice Cave, Mammoth Cave features a vast network of dry tunnels and rock formations that give you a glimpse into the region’s geological history. It’s named for its enormous size rather than any prehistoric bones, and its winding passages and massive halls are equally awe-inspiring. Tours here take you deep into the mountain and reveal fascinating stories about how these caves were formed over millions of years.

More details about opening times and ticket combos are also available on the official Dachstein website.

🦈 Visit the Dachstein Shark – A Fun Stop Near 5 Fingers

Yes, there’s a giant metal shark on the mountain! 🦈 It might sound odd, but the Dachstein Shark is a family favorite. Kids love climbing inside it, and the views through the shark’s “mouth” are pretty unforgettable.

You’ll find it near Krippenstein Station, just a few minutes off the main trail to 5 Fingers. Perfect photo op — and a fun surprise for little explorers.

🌍 Stop at the Welterbespirale on the Way to 5 Fingers

The Welterbespirale (World Heritage Spiral) is another viewpoint on Krippenstein, and honestly, it’s often quieter than 5 Fingers.

The spiral structure offers a 360° lookout over the Dachstein glacier, Lake Hallstatt, and beyond. I once sat up here for nearly an hour — just watching the clouds roll over the Alps. If you love photography or quiet moments, don’t miss it.

🥾 Hike from 5 Fingers to Simonyhütte Mountain Hut

If you’re feeling adventurous, the trail to the Simonyhütte is absolutely worth the extra effort.

The hike takes about 2–3 hours one way from Gjaid Station (Section 3 of the cable car). It’s a high alpine trail, so wear good boots and check the weather before setting off.

Up there, the views of the Dachstein Ice Massif are unreal — glaciers, rock towers, and deep silence all around. The hut serves warm meals and even offers overnight stays for hikers and climbers.

If you want a taste of true alpine life, this is it. And for a comfortable base nearby, check out Gjaidalm Lodge or even Lodge am Krippenstein.

🏔️ Top Attractions Near the 5 Fingers Obertraun Austria

Once you’ve soaked in the views at 5 Fingers Obertraun Austria, don’t head down just yet. There’s much more to explore on Krippenstein — from ice caves to quirky landmarks and scenic trails. Every visit, I find something new to love.

❄️ Explore the Dachstein Ice Cave from Obertraun

Visiting the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave was honestly one of the most surreal experiences I’ve had in the region. Inside, you’ll find frozen waterfalls, glittering formations, and vast chambers that feel straight out of a fantasy film. I stopped by on my way up with the cable car and spent about two hours exploring both the Ice Cave and the nearby Mammoth Cave – and it was absolutely worth it.

🧊 Guided tours start from Schönbergalm, just a short walk from the first cable car station. It’s great for kids and adults alike — and a perfect stop before heading up to 5 Fingers.

More details about opening times and ticket combos are also available on the official Dachstein website.

🦈 Visit the Dachstein Shark – A Fun Stop Near 5 Fingers

Yes, there’s a giant metal shark on the mountain! 🦈 It might sound odd, but the Dachstein Shark is a family favorite. Kids love climbing inside it, and the views through the shark’s “mouth” are pretty unforgettable.

You’ll find it near Krippenstein Station, just a few minutes off the main trail to 5 Fingers. Perfect photo op — and a fun surprise for little explorers.

🌍 Stop at the Welterbespirale on the Way to 5 Fingers

The Welterbespirale (World Heritage Spiral) is another viewpoint on Krippenstein, and honestly, it’s often quieter than 5 Fingers.

The spiral structure offers a 360° lookout over the Dachstein glacier, Lake Hallstatt, and beyond. I once sat up here for nearly an hour — just watching the clouds roll over the Alps. If you love photography or quiet moments, don’t miss it.

🥾 Hike from 5 Fingers to Simonyhütte Mountain Hut

If you’re feeling adventurous, the trail to the Simonyhütte is absolutely worth the extra effort.

The hike takes about 2–3 hours one way from Gjaid Station (Section 3 of the cable car). It’s a high alpine trail, so wear good boots and check the weather before setting off.

Up there, the views of the Dachstein Ice Massif are unreal — glaciers, rock towers, and deep silence all around. The hut serves warm meals and even offers overnight stays for hikers and climbers.

If you want a taste of true alpine life, this is it. And for a comfortable base nearby, check out Gjaidalm Lodge or even Lodge am Krippenstein.

If you’re into skiing, the area turns into a snow lover’s paradise. You can read more in my post about Obertraun’s winter skiing and snowboarding.

Webcam & Weather at 5 Fingers

Before you head up, always check the live webcam from Krippenstein. Weather changes quickly at this altitude. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s foggy.

I’ve made that mistake once — trust me, you don’t want to go all the way up just to see… clouds.

🌄 Scenic Views from the 5 Fingers Obertraun Austria

Standing on the 5 Fingers platform never gets old. The views change with the seasons, the light, even the time of day. I’ve been up there in the early morning mist, on clear summer days, and once at golden sunset — and every single time, I was blown away.

🌊 Stunning View Over Lake Hallstatt from 5 Fingers Obertraun Austria

From the platform, your eyes are drawn straight to Lake Hallstatt, shimmering far below. The village of Hallstatt looks like a postcard from above — especially when the light hits the water just right.

If you’re curious about what to do down there, check out my full guide: Hallstatt What to Do, See, and Explore. I recommend walking Echerntal valley, or just relaxing by the bathing island after your mountain adventure.

The contrast between the calm lake and the rugged cliffs makes this view extra special.

🏔️ Breathtaking View of the Dachstein Alps and Ice Massif

Turn around on the platform, and you’ll see something even wilder — the Dachstein Ice Massif. It’s dramatic, jagged, and always snow-dusted, even in summer.

On a clear day, you can spot the Dachstein glacier, some of the region’s highest peaks, and the surrounding Salzkammergut Alps. It’s no wonder the whole area is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

If this mountain scenery speaks to your soul, read more in my post about the Hallstatt Alps — there’s a whole world up there waiting to be explored.

📸 Sunset Photography from the 5 Fingers Platform

One of my favorite memories? Watching the sunset from 5 Fingers. The light turns golden, the peaks glow pink and purple, and shadows stretch over the valley.

🥾 Things to Do Around the 5 Fingers in Obertraun, Austria

5 Fingers isn’t just a viewpoint — it’s a gateway to all kinds of mountain fun. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the area around Krippenstein and Obertraun offers so much more than just a photo stop.

I’ve done many of these adventures myself — and I always leave wanting to come back.

🥾 Hiking Trails on Krippenstein near 5 Fingers Obertraun Austria

Once you’re at the top station, you’ll see plenty of trail signs pointing to scenic walks and alpine routes. One of the most popular is the trail to Heilbronner Kreuz, or if you’re up for a challenge, you can hike to the iconic Simonyhütte.

You can read about that hike here: Simonyhütte – High Alpine Hut Above Hallstatt. It’s a longer trek but absolutely worth it if you love mountain huts, glacier views, and peaceful alpine silence.

🎿 Winter Skiing on Dachstein Krippenstein

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the Dachstein Krippenstein ski area. It’s not your typical resort — it’s known for freeride skiing and incredible off-piste runs.

I spent a day up there last February — read the full story in My Day at Dachstein Krippenstein. From powdery slopes to hot drinks at mountain huts, it’s a wild and beautiful way to explore this alpine playground.

🪂 Paragliding from Krippenstein – A Unique Obertraun Experience

Ever wanted to fly over Lake Hallstatt? Paragliding from Krippenstein makes that dream real.

The takeoff point is close to 5 Fingers. The flight takes you high above Obertraun, with views of glaciers, cliffs, and the valley below. It’s thrilling but peaceful at the same time.

I wrote about my flight here: Paragliding on Krippenstein. Spoiler: I couldn’t stop smiling for hours afterward.

🌿 Hiking Koppental Valley

If you’re back down in the valley and still want more nature, take a relaxing walk through Koppental Valley. It’s green, quiet, and filled with waterfalls and wooden bridges.

Start from Obertraun or Bad Aussee, and just follow the river. Here’s the full hiking guide:

👉 Koppental – A Peaceful Hike Along the River — perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and explore a quieter side of the valley.

🏖️ Swimming and Enjoying the Beach in Obertraun

Need a break from hiking? Head to the Obertraun bathing beach (Strandbad) — it’s just a short car or bus ride from the cable car valley station.

There’s a floating dock, crystal-clear water, and the Dachstein Alps rising in the background. Great for a summer cool-down or a lazy afternoon with the kids.

👉 Strandbad Obertraun – Best Spot for a Summer Swim — calm water, mountain views, and a relaxed vibe