Olpererhütte Bridge Mayrhofen
An iconic suspension bridge in the Zillertal Alps, offering surreal views of a turquoise lake and dramatic peaks. A must-visit for hikers and photogra...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Olpererhütte Bridge Mayrhofen
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic suspension bridge in the Zillertal Alps, offering surreal views of a turquoise lake and dramatic peaks. A must-visit for hikers and photographers.
"The most viral bridge in Zillertal, offering an unforgettable view that looks like a dream!"
🎯 Beat the Photo Queues
Arrive early on weekdays to avoid long waits for the bridge photo op . Patience is key!
🥾 Trekking Poles are Your Friend
Highly recommended for the steep, rocky trail, especially on the way down . Good boots are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Olpererhütte Suspension Bridge
Adjacent to Olpererhütte
A breathtaking suspension bridge offering surreal views of Schlegeis Lake and the Zillertal Alps. It's an illusion of height, not dangerous .

Schlegeis Reservoir (Schlegeisspeicher)
Base of the hike
A stunning turquoise alpine lake providing a dramatic backdrop to the hike and the famous bridge. The drive to the reservoir is scenic .

Olpererhütte Mountain Hut
Near the bridge
A cozy mountain hut offering refreshments and a place to rest after your hike. Enjoy excellent food with amazing views .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Perfect Shot
Hike Smart: Gear Up for the Alps
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Photo Queues
Arrive early on weekdays to avoid long waits for the bridge photo op.
Patience is key!🥾 Trekking Poles are Your Friend
Highly recommended for the steep, rocky trail, especially on the way down.
Good boots are a must!🚗 Scenic Drive to Schlegeis
The drive to Schlegeis Stausee is beautiful, but there's a toll road with timed access.
Plan accordingly.💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get hot during the hike, even with cooler mountain air. Carry plenty of water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Photo Queues
Arrive early on weekdays to avoid long waits for the bridge photo op.
Patience is key!🥾 Trekking Poles are Your Friend
Highly recommended for the steep, rocky trail, especially on the way down.
Good boots are a must!🚗 Scenic Drive to Schlegeis
The drive to Schlegeis Stausee is beautiful, but there's a toll road with timed access.
Plan accordingly.💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get hot during the hike, even with cooler mountain air. Carry plenty of water.
📸 It's an Illusion!
The bridge looks precarious but is safe and not as high as it appears in photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery and the iconic suspension bridge, calling it a favorite spot in Austria. The hike is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of Schlegeis Lake. While the bridge is a major draw, be prepared for potential queues for photos.
"It’s my favorite spot in Austria. We did the hiking to the top - 2 hours but everything depends on your condition. We stoped a lot because it was pretty hot and hard. During the hike you can enjoy the view of beautiful lake. The bridge itself is place beautifully too."
Agnieszka Świtek
"The trail is scenic, with mountains and valleys unfolding as you hike. It’s a bit of a workout but totally worth it! The suspension bridge at the top has become a big Instagram spot, just be ready to wait at least 30 minutes for your turn. All in all, the hike takes about 4 hours up and down with breaks, and the views make every step worthwhile."
AVC
"It was quite a tough climb that took an hour and 45 minutes. Going down wasn’t easy either. We went on a weekday in the afternoon, and there were hardly any people by the bridge for taking photos. The views, however, are beautiful and definitely worth seeing."
Jiří Krupička
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Mayrhofen, drive approximately 30 minutes to the Schlegeis Stausee parking lot.
You'll need to take the Schlegeis Alpine Road, which has a toll and timed access for cars, limiting the number of visitors. Alternatively, you can take bus 4102 to the Schlegeis Stausee reservoir bus stop.The Schlegeis Alpine Road is typically open from May to October, depending on snow conditions. It's best to check local conditions before your visit.
Yes, you can use public transport. Take bus 4102 from Mayrhofen to the Schlegeis Stausee stop.
From there, you'll begin your hike.The hike typically starts at the Schlegeisspeicher (Schlegeis Reservoir) parking area.
The drive is about 30 minutes, but factor in potential delays due to the timed toll access on the Schlegeis Alpine Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a toll fee to drive the Schlegeis Alpine Road, which helps regulate visitor numbers.
The hike itself and access to the bridge are generally free once you reach the trailhead.The bridge is an outdoor attraction and is accessible at any time. However, the Olpererhütte mountain hut has specific operating hours, usually from late spring to early autumn.
Yes, there is a toll for the Schlegeis Alpine Road. The price can vary, but it's a necessary fee to access the starting point of the hike by car.
No, you cannot book time slots for the bridge. It's first-come, first-served, which is why arriving early is recommended.
While the bridge itself is safe, it's a popular spot. Be mindful of other visitors and follow any posted guidelines. The 'illusion' of danger is part of its appeal.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderate to challenging. It involves steep, staircase-like rocks for much of the ascent,
with approximately 587 meters of elevation gain.The hike typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours one way, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop for photos.
The round trip with breaks can be around 4 hours.Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the rocky terrain.
Wearing layers is advisable as mountain weather can change quickly. Trekking poles are also highly recommended.Despite its appearance, the bridge is not dangerous and is only a few meters from the ground; it's an illusion.
However, always exercise caution when walking on any suspension bridge.The views are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the turquoise Schlegeis Lake, surrounding peaks, and the Zillertal Alps.
It's a photographer's dream.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Olpererhütte is a mountain hut where you can enjoy food and drinks.
They are known for having excellent food.Typically, mountain huts offer hearty Austrian cuisine, including traditional dishes, snacks, and beverages. It's a great place to refuel after your hike.
Reservations are generally not required for day visitors, but it's always a good idea to check their specific policy, especially during peak season.
The primary dining option directly accessible from the hike is the Olpererhütte itself. For more options, you would need to return to Mayrhofen or nearby villages.
Prices at mountain huts can be slightly higher than in the valley due to the logistics of transporting supplies. However, many find the experience and views well worth the cost.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography. Golden hour can be magical, but be prepared for crowds if you visit during peak times.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape and the bridge. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the surrounding peaks. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the lake and sky.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local rules and restrictions before flying a drone in the Zillertal Alps to ensure compliance.
The best strategy is to visit on a weekday, very early in the morning, or during the shoulder seasons (late spring, early autumn).
Even then, you might have to wait a bit.The bridge's unique design, combined with the stunning backdrop of the turquoise Schlegeis Lake and the dramatic Zillertal Alps, creates an incredibly picturesque scene that's popular on social media.
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Tailored advice for your travel style
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Olpererhütte: A Traveler's Guide
Plan for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of hiking one way, depending on your pace and how often you pause to soak in the scenery or capture photos. The total round trip, including time spent at the bridge and the hut, can easily take around 4 hours. It's crucial to wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Carrying sufficient water is also a must, as the hike can be strenuous, particularly on warmer days.
Upon reaching the vicinity of the Olpererhütte, you'll find the famous suspension bridge. While it appears to hang precariously over a dramatic drop, it's designed for safety and offers an illusion of height rather than actual danger. The hut itself provides a welcome opportunity to rest, enjoy refreshments, and savor the panoramic views before beginning your descent.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips for Olpererhütte
When composing your shots, utilize a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the Zillertal Alps, the vibrant turquoise of Schlegeis Lake, and the unique structure of the suspension bridge. Experiment with different angles to emphasize the 'illusion' of height and the bridge's dramatic placement. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the lake and sky, making them even more vivid.
For those seeking that perfect, uncrowded shot, visiting on a weekday, especially outside of the peak summer months, is your best bet. Even then, patience is key. Consider capturing the journey as well – the winding trails, the alpine meadows, and the changing perspectives of the mountains can make for compelling storytelling in your photo series.
Understanding the Olpererhütte Experience: Beyond the Bridge
The Olpererhütte mountain hut serves as a vital resting point and a place to refuel. Visitors often praise the excellent food served here, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with unparalleled views. It’s a chance to experience traditional alpine hospitality after your trek. The hut also offers overnight stays for those wishing to extend their mountain adventure.
It's important to manage expectations regarding crowds. The bridge's popularity means that queues are common, particularly during peak hours and seasons. While some visitors have reported short waits on weekdays, others have experienced queues of 20+ people. Embracing the journey, enjoying the scenery, and appreciating the hut's offerings can make the overall experience highly rewarding, even with a wait for the iconic photo.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit