Gosaulacke
- Austria
- Gosau
- Places In Gosau
- Gosaulacke
Gosaulacke, also known as the Middle Lake Gosau, is a unique and fascinating lake in the Gosau valley, a part of the Salzkammergut region in Upper Austria. Unlike the other two lakes in the valley, Lower Lake Gosau and Upper Lake Gosau, Gosaulacke is not a permanent lake, but an episodic one that only appears under certain conditions. It is a natural wonder that offers a stunning view of the Dachstein massif and the Gosaukamm, a mountain range that forms the border between Upper Austria and Styria.
The origin and formation of Gosaulacke
Gosaulacke is a glacial lake that is fed by the meltwater of the Dachstein glacier, which covers the highest peak of the Dachstein massif, the Hoher Dachstein (2,995 meters or 9,826 feet). The water from the glacier flows into the Upper Lake Gosau, which is located at an altitude of about 1,171 meters (3,842 feet) above sea level, and has a surface area of about 0.14 square kilometers (0.05 square miles) and a maximum depth of about 36 meters (118 feet). The Upper Lake Gosau is dammed by a moraine, a pile of rocks and debris left by the glacier, that prevents the water from draining into the Lower Lake Gosau.
However, when there is enough snowmelt or rainfall, the water level of the Upper Lake Gosau rises and overflows the moraine, creating a stream that flows into a depression in the valley floor, forming Gosaulacke. The size and shape of Gosaulacke vary depending on the amount and duration of the water inflow, but it can reach up to 0.04 square kilometers (0.02 square miles) in surface area and up to 4 meters (13 feet) in depth. Gosaulacke then drains into the Lower Lake Gosau through a small channel, completing the cycle of the three lakes.
The appearance and disappearance of Gosaulacke is not predictable, but it usually occurs in spring and summer, when the snow and ice on the Dachstein glacier melt the most. Sometimes, Gosaulacke can last for several weeks or months, while other times, it can vanish in a matter of days or hours. The phenomenon of Gosaulacke has been observed and documented since the 19th century, and it has attracted the attention and curiosity of many scientists, explorers, and tourists.
The flora and fauna of Gosaulacke
Gosaulacke is a habitat for various plants and animals that have adapted to the changing water conditions. The lake is surrounded by alpine meadows and forests, where you can find flowers such as gentians, edelweiss, alpine roses, and orchids, as well as trees such as spruces, firs, larches, and beeches. The lake itself is home to several species of fish, such as trout, char, perch, and pike, as well as amphibians, such as frogs, toads, and newts. The lake also attracts many birds, such as ducks, geese, swans, herons, and eagles, as well as mammals, such as deer, foxes, badgers, and marmots.
The tourism and recreation of Gosaulacke
Gosaulacke is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The lake is accessible by foot, bike, or car, and there are several hiking trails and cycling routes that lead to the lake from the nearby village of Gosau or from the Lower Lake Gosau. The lake is also a starting point for more challenging hikes to the Upper Lake Gosau or to the peaks of the Gosaukamm, such as the Donnerkogel (2,054 meters or 6,739 feet) or the Bischofsmütze (2,458 meters or 8,064 feet).
One of the most popular activities at Gosaulacke is taking photos of the lake and the Dachstein massif, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the light creates a stunning contrast and reflection on the water. The lake is also a great place for relaxing, picnicking, fishing, or swimming, although the water temperature is usually very cold. In winter, when the lake is frozen, you can also enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, or ice skating on the lake, or visit the nearby ski resorts of Gosau or Russbach.
Gosaulacke is a hidden gem in the Gosau valley that offers a unique and fascinating experience for nature lovers and adventurers. It is a lake that is not always there, but when it is, it is a sight to behold. It is a lake that is shaped by the forces of nature, but also by the history and culture of the people who live in the valley. It is a lake that is worth visiting, whether you are looking for a peaceful escape or a thrilling adventure.
Working Hours
- Monday Open all day
- Tuesday Open all day
- Wednesday Open all day
- Thursday Open all day
- Friday Open all day
- Saturday Open all day
- Sunday Open all day
Location / Contacts
- Address : 4825, Austria
Nearby Hotels
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Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron
Distance: 47.55 km
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