The Jubiläums via ferrata near the Lehner Waterfall is one of the best-known via ferratas in the Ötztal region of Tirol, combining dramatic scenery with a fun scramble through a gorge. Located near the town of Längenfeld, the route follows a steep rock face directly beside the roaring Lehner Waterfall, giving you constant exposure to spray, views, and the sound of rushing water.
Total round-trip distance
3.8 kilometres / 2.4 miles
Elevation gain
340 meters / 1120 feet
Difficulty
Intermediate (C) with optional D/E variants
Time required
2-2.5 hours
Overview of the Lehne Waterfall via ferrata
The Lehner waterfall via ferrata is mostly B difficulty, with a few short sections rated around C. Those who are feeling adventurous can also venture onto the optional variants that reach D/E difficulty and run parallel to the easier route. Thanks to the route’s diverse character, the Jubiläums Klettersteig is suitable for confident beginners on the normal line and for experienced climbers on the harder sections. The ferrata is exceptionally well protected with steel cable, iron rungs, and footholds throughout.
TIP: This is a popular route in the Ötztal valley, so if you want to avoid being stuck in bottleneck traffic, arrive early.
The map & elevation profile
Important info about the Jubiläums Klettersteig
Thanks to its relatively low altitude and southeast exposure, the Lehner Waterfall via ferrata is doable from April to November. During the shoulder season (April, October, November), temperatures at night can fall below freezing. This can make the route quite icy in the morning due to its proximity to a waterfall. Just something to keep in mind before you head out. Thankfully, the sun hits the route early in the day thanks to the southeast exposition. During the peak summer months, the mist from the waterfall provides a great cool-down.
When to go: April to November
Via ferrata exposition: Southeast
Map required: Ötztaler Alpen, Ötztal, Pitztal
Highest point: 1517 meters / 4977 feet
Parking: Heimat Museum
Trailhead: Same as above
Nearest towns: Längenfeld, Umhausen, Oetz, Sölden
Getting there
The Lehner Waterfall via ferrata is easily reached by public transport or by car. If you are staying in a hotel in one of the towns in the Oetz Valley, you might receive a summer pass that allows you to use public transport free of charge. It’s a very common initiative in Tirol aimed at reducing the environmental impact of cars.
By bus
The nearest bus stop, Längenfeld Lehner Au, is a 5-minute walk from the trailhead. Bus number 320 operates on this route, and it runs across the entire Oetz valley. You can check the schedule and buy tickets on the VVT (Verkehrsverbund Tirol) app.
By car
There is an ample parking lot right at the trailhead. There is a daily fee to park there. During the peak summer season (July-August), the spots might fill up quickly, so make sure to arrive early.
Stages of the Lehner Waterfall via ferrata
Approach (15 minutes):
From the parking lot, follow the signs for the Jubiläums Klettersteig/Lehner Wasserfall. The hiking path crosses a larch forest. You should reach the first cable within 15 minutes.
Via Ferrata (1 hour):
The route begins with a steep wall that immediately tests comfort with exposure and arm strength. After this, the ferrata traverses across slabs and walls above the gorge, often directly facing the waterfall. The climbing alternates between easier traverses and steeper vertical passages, which keeps the route varied and engaging. The final suspension bridge over the gorge is a memorable finish and a signature feature of the climb. If you don’t feel comfortable crossing the bridge, you can skip it and use the earlier exit.
Descent (1 hour):
The descent follows a gravel forest road that intersects a narrower hiking path. If you prefer a gentler descent, stick to the gravel road.
Overnight stay & dining possibilities
There are no huts along the route, but there’s little need to bring much food or water since the via ferrata is very short. You can go really lightweight on this one. After you finish, you can have lunch at one of the restaurants in Längenfeld.
Where to stay nearby
There are plenty of little towns in the Oetz Valley where you can base yourself for a few days. The most well-known is Sölden, but it is also the most touristy. I recommend either Oetz or Umhausen, both of which are easier to reach and have a more local feel. Oetz is only 15 minutes away by car from the Lehner Waterfall via ferrata and Umhausen, just 8. The bus takes 26 minutes and 13 minutes, respectively.
Best Value
Explorer Hotel (Umhausen)
The Explorer Hotel Ötztal is a modern, sustainable, and affordable hotel with sporty comforts such as a dedicated bike area, panoramic-view rooms, and a relaxing sports spa.
Top Rated
Post Hotel Kassl (Oetz)
The Posthotel Kassl in Oetz is a historic 4-star superior hotel dating back to 1605, blending royal Tyrolean charm with modern comfort.
Other activities nearby
Hikes
- 4-Lakes hike
- Schweinfürter Hut
- Winnebachsee Hut
- Amberger Hut
- Wetterkreuzkogel
- Obergurgl to Vent Traverse (3 days)
Via ferrata
- Stuiben Waterfall
- Reinhard Schiestl
- Panorama Klettersteig (Kühtai)
- Geierwand
- Anton Renk
- Steinwand
- Schwärzenkamm
