The lower reaches of the Ochsen valley, which branches off towards the Piz Buin in the south, are submerged in the Silvretta reservoir which dominates the Bierlerhöhe.

In order to control the water discharge of the Ill, the reservoir has been extended from the Ochsen valley towards the top of the pass, and is secured with dams in both directions.

The name Bielerhöhe refers to two locations: the two kilometers of relatively flat landscape between two steep inclines along with the small rise on the northern flank of the pass (2,071m) over which a hiking trail leads, as well as the highest point of the road (2,032m).

The Madlenerhaus, a German Alpine Club base, is situated close to the highest point of the pass, as well as guest houses and hotels, .

It was built between 1965 and 1967 to commemorate power station building workers who had died, is dedicated to the patron saint of mountain engineers, and serves as the chapel for the community.

The River Ill has its source south of the pass, close to which it would occasionally change its path and instead of heading west towards the Rhine, it would sometimes flow eastwards into the Inn.

Originally constructed solely for the power plant, the reservoir has developed into a popular tourist attraction and today is also a fishing destination.

Originally only intended to be a construction road, it is now a toll section of the B/L 188 Paznauerstraße/Montafoner Straße which links Pians with Bludenz, and is in demand as a tourist route even if it is unimportant for transit traffic.