Drought cuts Bärenschützklamm visitors by 10%

The Bärenschützklamm gorge near Mixnitz is marking its 125th anniversary after a difficult year in which storms caused damage and drought drove visitor numbers down, ORF reports.

About 36,000 people visited this year, compared with the usual 40,000, according to Gerhard Jantscher, chairman of the Mixnitz section of the Alpine Club, which manages the gorge. Water has been scarce for months, with inflow from the Teichalm seeping away, he said.

Storms caused extensive damage in June, but the biggest repair bill resulted from work to remove rocks. Stones thrown down from the Mitterriegel struck the large waterfall bridge, which had to be completely replaced. The work required investments of up to 170,000 euros before the season opened, largely covered by reserves, Jantscher said.

The gorge entered its winter break a week ago, and the next season is due to begin on May 1, 2027. Winter work will include maintenance and safety measures, as well as new 3D surveys of the cliffs with geologists. Experts will inspect the gorge in spring before it reopens. The Alpine Club hopes for fewer storms and less drought next year.