Lake Gepatschspeicher

In the upper Kaunertal valley in the Oetztal Alps, there is an artificial lake called Gepatschspeicher.

Nestled between the majestic peaks of the Oetztal Alps, there is the artificial lake Gepatschspeicher (see pic), located at an altitude of 1,767 m asl. The alpine streams of the Kaunertal valley join the lake, e.g. the Gepatschbach stream. This stream arises from the Gepatschferner Glacier, beside the Pasterze glacier the biggest glacier in Austria. Also the dam wall of Lake Gepatschspeicher is a special attraction. Featuring a length of 600 m and a hight of 153 m, it was one of the ten highest walls in the world when the artificial lake was built (1961 - 1964)!

By the way Lake Gepatschspeicher is one of the most important artificial lakes of Austria, as it generates 661 gigawatt hours electricity every year. The lake is also a popular destination for a large number of hikers. The natural lakeside of Lake Gepatschspeicher is characterised by a rich vegetation, including trees, bushes and various plants. In fact, the rich flora and fauna provide an atmosphere which is perfect for relaxing and bracing one’s energies…

The Kaunertal Glacier Road goes past Lake Gepatschspeicher up to an elevation of 2,750 m above sea level, directly on the edge of the glacial wall of the Weisseeferner.

Altitude: 1,767 m asl
Surface: 260 hectares