Introduction
If you’re craving an adrenaline rush coupled with spectacular scenery, the Bad Goisern Intermediate Canyoning Tour might just be your perfect match. This experience invites you to explore a hidden corner of the Austrian Alps, where towering rock formations and waterfalls create an unforgettable vertical playground. While it’s tailored for those with some canyoning experience or a good fitness level, beginners who are comfortable with heights can still give it a try.
What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its emphasis on pure vertical adventure—no jumps or swims, just thrilling rappels down impressive waterfalls. Plus, the professional guiding team ensures safety and provides free photos and videos to relive your exploits. The only thing to consider is the need for private transportation to the starting point and suitable footwear—so plan accordingly. This adventure suits active travelers who love breathtaking views, physical challenges, and a dash of wildlife in their outdoor experiences.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Spectacular Rappels: Rappels from 4 meters up to 35 meters, offering a serious thrill with panoramic scenery.
- No Swimming or Jumps: Focus solely on vertical descents, ideal for those who prefer heights over water surprises.
- All Equipment Provided: Wetsuit, helmet, harness—no hidden costs or gear worries.
- Guided Support: Certified guides offer thorough safety briefings and hands-on rappel training, suitable for first-timers or experienced canyoners.
- Stunning Views: End the tour with a 35-meter waterfall and sweeping vistas of the Dachstein mountain range.
- Free Photos & Videos: Capture your adventure professionally—no need to worry about filming yourself.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bad Goisern.
The Basic Breakdown of the Tour
Starting at the Bad Goisern base, you’ll be greeted by a friendly, certified guide who provides all necessary gear—wetsuit, harness, helmet—and gives a comprehensive safety briefing. From there, the adventure kicks off with a short drive of 15 minutes to the canyon near Bad Ischl.
Once at the canyon, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute uphill hike along a forest trail, which adds a touch of wilderness anticipation before gearing up. This walk is straightforward but requires a reasonable level of fitness, as you’re ascending through scenic woods.
The safety briefing and rappel training last around 20 minutes. Here, your guide will teach you how to rappel independently, but assistance is always available if you prefer not to do it solo. This flexibility is great for first-timers or those who might be wary of heights.
Exploring the Canyon: Vertical Wonder
The core of the experience is about descending through a sculpted rock world. You’ll encounter four to five rappels, ranging from 4 meters up to an exhilarating 35 meters. These descents cut through narrow, twisting channels and waterfalls, offering a sense of vertical mastery in a stunning setting.
Unlike many canyon adventures, there are no jumps or swimming involved, making it more accessible and less physically demanding in terms of water activity. Instead, your focus will be on controlling your own descent, with your guide ready to assist or lower you safely if preferred.
The final rappel takes you down a dramatic 35-meter waterfall, with views stretching over the Dachstein range—truly a highlight that leaves a lasting impression. Afterward, a 15-minute hike takes you back to the starting point, where you can change into dry clothes and reflect on your vertical conquest.
The Itinerary in Detail
The tour begins at the Perndanner-Promenade, where you can park and enter the activity base. After an initial safety briefing in Bad Ischl, you’ll hop into your vehicle for a short drive to the canyon. The 30-minute uphill hike is a gentle warm-up and a chance to enjoy the surrounding nature.
Once in the canyon, the guide will set the stage with safety instructions and rappel training. We loved the way the guide explained each step clearly, building confidence before the real descents. The main part of the tour, lasting around 2.5 hours, involves navigating multiple rappels, each offering unique perspectives and challenges.
The final descent is the showstopper—a 35-meter waterfall with panoramic views of the Dachstein peaks. Many past reviews mention how “stunning” and “thrilling” this finale feels, providing that perfect mix of adrenaline and awe.
After the rappelling, the group hikes back, sharing stories and photos, and then makes a quick return to the starting point. The entire experience runs approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on group size and pace.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat to Expect from the Experience
Safety and Training: From the start, the emphasis is on safety. Your guide offers a detailed safety briefing and rappel training, ensuring even those new to canyoning feel prepared. The option to be lowered instead of rappelling independently provides reassurance and flexibility.
Terrain and Scenery: The canyon is characterized by towering rock walls, glowing mineral deposits, and dramatic drops. The terrain feels intimate and spectacular, with the sound of rushing waterfalls surrounding you. No jumps or slides mean you can focus entirely on controlling your descents, which many find more engaging and less intimidating.
Photos and Videos: One of the most praised aspects is the inclusion of free professional photos and videos. This means you can enjoy your adventure without worrying about capturing every moment—your guide will do it for you, and you’ll have high-quality keepsakes.
Group Size and Atmosphere: With a limit of 8 participants, the tour maintains a small-group atmosphere, allowing personalized support and a relaxed environment. Past reviewers have appreciated the friendly guides who make safety fun and approachable.
Practical Considerations and What to Bring
Given the physical nature of this tour, you’ll want to come prepared with hiking shoes with good grip—such as ankle-high boots or sports shoes suitable for uneven terrain. A change of clothes, towel, and swimwear are necessary since you’ll get wet but won’t be swimming.
As the tour takes place in almost all weather conditions, be ready for varying climates. If heavy rain has occurred recently, the guide might opt for a different canyon for safety reasons, but the adventure generally goes ahead rain or shine.
Participants are advised to avoid sandals, flip-flops, high heels, or open-toed shoes, and to leave pets, alcohol, and open shoes indoors.
The Cost and Value
While the exact price isn’t specified here, the comprehensive package includes full canyoning gear, safety training, and professional photos—offering good value for an activity that combines physical challenge, spectacular scenery, and personalized support. Considering the intimate group size and quality of guides, this tour provides a memorable experience without feeling rushed or crowded.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This canyoning experience suits those with a good level of fitness and stamina who are comfortable with heights. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a challenge with a focus on vertical descents rather than water jumps. First-timers with some outdoor experience can also participate, thanks to the thorough safety briefing and support.
People with fear of heights, medical conditions, or recent surgeries should probably skip this activity, as it involves significant rappelling and elevation.
The Sum Up
The Bad Goisern Intermediate Canyoning Tour offers a rare opportunity to challenge yourself amid some of Austria’s most stunning natural scenery. The combination of long, exhilarating rappels and sweeping mountain views makes it a standout outdoor adventure. The focus on safety, combined with free photos and videos, means you’ll leave with both adrenaline and beautiful memories.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to experience the vertical side of nature, enjoy incredible vistas, and aren’t afraid of a bit of height. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting a physically rewarding experience in a breathtaking setting—without the jumps or swims that often come with canyoning.
If you’re looking for a thrilling yet accessible alpine adventure that brings you face-to-face with Austria’s rugged beauty, this tour could be a perfect fit.
FAQs
Do I need prior canyoning experience?
No, previous canyoning experience isn’t necessary. The guide provides safety briefings and rappel training to ensure everyone feels confident.
Is this activity suitable for beginners?
It’s perfect for those with some fitness and a willingness to try heights, but not ideal for complete beginners or those uncomfortable with heights.
How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, including the safety briefing, hiking, canyoning, and return hike.
What equipment is included?
All necessary gear—wetsuit, harness, helmet—is provided as part of the tour.
Can I go alone?
Yes, but you should book for at least two participants since the tour operates with a minimum of 2 people.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, hiking shoes with good grip, and personal medication if needed.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 14 years old.
What about weather?
The activity runs in almost all weather conditions, but heavy rain might lead to a different canyon being chosen for safety.
Is transportation included?
No, you need to arrange your own transport to the starting point. The tour begins at the base in Bad Goisern, where gear is provided.
Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for people with heart problems, vertigo, or recent surgeries, and requires a reasonable fitness level.
In summary, this canyoning adventure offers a thrilling, scenic, and safe way to experience Austria’s Alpine beauty. Perfect for active travelers seeking a vertical challenge, it promises unforgettable views and a solid dose of adrenaline—all with professional guidance and free photo keepsakes.
You can check availability for your dates here: