Hoher Dachstein facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Hoher Dachstein
Hoher Dachstein from the north-west, with the Vorderer Gosausee in the foreground
Highest point
Elevation	2,995 m (9,826 ft)
Prominence	2,136 m (7,008 ft)  Ranked 8th in the Alps
Listing	Ultra
Naming
English translation	high roof stone
Language of name	German
Geography
Hoher Dachstein Location in Austria
Location	Upper Austria / Styria, Austria
Parent range	Northern Limestone Alps
Geology
Age of rock	Triassic
Mountain type	Limestone
Climbing
First ascent	1832 Peter Gappmayr (Gosau side)

The Hoher Dachstein is a famous Austrian mountain. It is the second highest mountain in the Northern Limestone Alps. This impressive peak stands on the border of two Austrian states: Upper Austria and Styria.

It is the highest point in both of these states. Parts of the mountain also reach into the state of Salzburg. Because of this, people sometimes call it the Drei-Länder-Berg, which means "three-state mountain." The Dachstein is also known for its amazing cave systems and many fossils, including huge ancient clams called megalodonts.

Exploring the Hoher Dachstein Mountain

The Hoher Dachstein is a very tall mountain in Austria. It reaches almost 3,000 meters (about 9,800 feet) high. It is part of a larger mountain range called the Northern Limestone Alps.

This mountain is special because it touches three different Austrian states. These states are Upper Austria, Styria, and Salzburg. This is why it earned its nickname, the "three-state mountain."

What is the Dachstein Made Of?

The Hoher Dachstein is mainly made of limestone. This type of rock forms over millions of years. It is often found in areas that were once covered by ancient seas. The limestone here formed during the Triassic period. This was a very long time ago, when dinosaurs were just starting to appear.

Caves and Fossils of Dachstein

The Dachstein area is famous for its many caves. Over time, water has carved out huge underground passages in the limestone. These caves are a popular attraction for visitors.

The mountain is also a great place to find fossils. Fossils are the remains of ancient plants and animals. Scientists have found many fossils here, including those of megalodonts. Megalodonts were very large clams that lived in the sea millions of years ago. Finding their fossils tells us that this mountain area was once underwater.

World Heritage Site Status

The Hoher Dachstein and its surrounding area are very special. In 1997, the UNESCO recognized it. They named the "Hallstatt-Dachstein Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape" a World Heritage Site.

This means the area has unique cultural and natural importance. It is protected so that future generations can enjoy it. The site is known for its beautiful scenery and its long history of human activity.

Images for kids

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  South face with the Hoher Dachstein in the middle of the picture

See also

In Spanish: Hoher Dachstein para niños