Alm

The Alm is a river in Upper Austria. It begins at Almsee, a lake set in the Totes Gebirge range. The river flows north for about forty kilometres before joining the Traun near Fischlham. Along its course it passes through meadows, forests and small villages. Its largest tributary is the Laudach, which enters from the west. Six municipalities lie along its banks, from Grünau im Almtal in the south to Bad Wimsbach-Neydharting in the north. The river is recognised for its exceptionally clean water. Authorities confirm the water is safe to drink straight from the stream. Anglers come to fish for brown trout, rainbow trout, brook trout and grayling. The variety of fish attracts both local fishermen and visitors from farther away. The landscape around the river changes with each season, from spring floods to summer low water. Visitors can walk beside the Alm on well-marked paths. The route passes water meadows where cattle graze in summer. In places the river narrows between steep banks of limestone. Near the source, Almsee offers calm water for swimming and picnics. The villages along the river have inns and guesthouses where travellers can rest.