The core mountain section of the Gerlos Alpine Road is 12 kilometres long, climbing from Krimml to the Pinzgauer Höhe pass. The broader link between Mittersill in Salzburg and Zell am Ziller in Tyrol stretches 69 kilometres. For a motorcyclist, the distinction helps separate a short panoramic ride from a longer crossing between regions.
The road follows the terrain in sweeping bends, with a maximum gradient of 9%. Stops along the 12-kilometre section offer views of Krimml Falls, while the pass opens a panorama of Alpine peaks. Pausing for the scenery is part of the ride rather than simply a break between corners.
Franz Wallack, who also designed the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, planned this mountain section; the continuous link from the Tyrol side was completed in 1962. The Gerlos road is open year-round, but mountain weather and the road’s condition still merit a check before setting off.