Its source is at above sea level at the Spitzstein. After it discharges into the Chiemsee at the bay Schafwaschener Bucht. It is one of the longest mountain streams in the Bavarian Alps. The name probably derives from the Celtic name of the river, Brigenna, the one coming from the mountains (female) in Celtic languages. The town Prien am Chiemsee was named after the river. Before Prien, on a weir the Mühlbach is fed, which flows independently into the Chiemsee further southward.