A historic fortress in Austria offers visitors a unique way to get their adrenaline pumping, with a 150-meter (~492 feet) tube slide that sends riders racing from the mountaintop toward the valley below.
Fort Kniepass, located in the Saalachtal region near the Austrian-German border, features the Viper Slide, advertised as the longest and highest dry tube slide in western Austria. The attraction combines modern thrills with the historic setting of the fort, giving visitors an unusual way to experience the centuries-old site.
A 150-Meter Ride Through Lights and Sound
The Viper Slide stretches approximately 492 feet and descends 180 feet in elevation. Riders travel through the enclosed tube in comfortable felt beanbags, reaching speeds of around 22 mph during a ride lasting approximately 20 to 24 seconds.
The slide includes a horizontal traffic circle that adds another twist to the experience before riders reach the visitor center at the bottom. Light and sound effects help create an immersive ride, with visitors able to choose from several themes.
Options include disco beats, magical environments, a mysterious jungle, outer space, and an underwater adventure inspired by the deep sea. A neutral version is also available for those who prefer a different atmosphere.
The Viper Slide operates year-round, making it an option for families and adventure-seekers regardless of the season. Riders must be at least 130 centimeters tall, or approximately 4 feet 3 inches, and only one person may use the slide at a time.
Indoor and Outdoor Playgrounds Add to the Experience
Fort Kniepass also offers indoor and outdoor playgrounds for younger visitors, expanding the attraction beyond the slide itself.
The indoor playground inside the visitor center provides a weatherproof option for families on rainy days. Children can explore a large indoor climbing structure, climbing nets, a slide, a marble run, and building elements designed to encourage creativity and physical activity.
Meanwhile, parents can take a break at the on-site café or enjoy regional food at Fort Kulinarik.