The hike through the historic Kaiserklamm is an experience for everyone. The narrow, rocky, well-secured trail leads through a narrow gorge. Deep below, the Brandenberger Ache loudly rushes its way downstream.
Until 1966, logs were drifted downstream through the water of the Ache, which shaped the gorge. This is also the reason for the still existing and walkable trails, which were specially carved out of the rock. For centuries, dozens of times a year, Brandenberg was the scene of the unique spectacle of log driving, which once attracted even emperors and statesmen as spectators.
The drifting trail begins a few hundred meters below the Kaiserhaus inn. The path leads about 1 km through the historic Kaiserklamm. Along the Kaiserklamm, some bridges and stone tunnels make the route even more interesting. Observe the power of the water and immerse yourself in the history of the Brandenberger log driving. After the gorge, you can comfortably hike downstream on the forest road back to the starting point.
This Kaiserklamm circular route can be perfectly combined with a pleasurable meal at the Kaiserhaus. The traditionally located inn was once frequented overnight by Emperor Franz Joseph with his Sissi. In front of the house, the sunny beer garden invites you to linger before or after the hike. The little guests can enjoy the large playground with low ropes course and much more.
Be sure to try: the original Brandenberger Prügeltorte!
Author’s recommendation
- Before or after the route, the Kaiserhaus invites you to a cosy meal!
- Along the circular route, you learn about the historic Brandenberger log driving.
- If you don't want to return via the forest road, you can also hike back along the gorge trail.
- The hike through the gorge takes about 30 minutes and is especially popular on hot days.
- The route is well suited for families with children who are already sure-footed.
- Please never leave children unsupervised in the gorge!
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The gorge is closed on heavy rainy days and in winter for safety reasons.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Rest stops
Gasthaus KaiserhausSafety information
- Sturdy footwear, sure-footedness and freedom from dizziness are absolutely necessary.
- Gorges always pose high alpine dangers even in valley areas.
- We recommend avoiding gorge hikes in bad weather.
- For children, we offer climbing harnesses with safety rope on deposit (available at the Kaiserhaus inn Brandenberg or at Sport Ossi in Kramsach).
- Please never leave children unsupervised!
- Always hold younger children by the hand!
- Hiking with dogs through the Kaiserklamm and Tiefenbachklamm is not recommended because of steel bridges with grating (especially not possible for small dogs).
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The gorge is closed on heavy rainy days and in winter for safety reasons.
Roadbook
About 300 m after the traditional inn Kaiserhaus, the drifting trail begins through the approximately 1 km long gorge section. Some bridges and stone tunnels make the route even more interesting. After the gorge, follow the trail to the next bridge and then comfortably return downstream on the forest road to the starting point.
The path through the Kaiserklamm was originally an old drifting trail built by engineer Hermann Veith. At the Erzherzog Johann Klause (about 7 km from Kaiserhaus), the water was dammed and the logs were released into the reservoir. Due to the force of the water, the wood could be 'drifted' almost 20 km down to Kramsach. The trails were created to clear log jams.
Playground with rope course at the Kaiserhaus
Gasthaus Kaiserhaus
Directions
A12, motorway exit Kramsach, direction Kramsach, direction Sonnwendjoch cable car. Pass the former cable car and follow the road to Pinegg, turn left uphill before the bridge and continue to the Kaiserhaus.
Parking
Paid parking lot at KaiserhausCoordinates
Author’s map recommendations
Book recommendations for this region:
Recommended maps for this region:
Equipment
- Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing
- If necessary, climbing harnesses with safety rope for small children (available on deposit at the Kaiserhaus inn or at Sport Ossi in Kramsach)
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions