Glacier ski areas are the answer to the most important question in ski planning: is there any snow at all? On the Kitzsteinhorn in Kaprun the ski season begins considerably earlier than in lower-lying areas and lasts well into spring.
Why a glacier is snow-sure
The ski area on the Kitzsteinhorn reaches around 3,000 metres. At that altitude precipitation falls reliably as snow, and the snowpack survives even during mild spells in the valley. If you want to ski in autumn or late spring, you are less dependent on the weather here than in many other regions.
The season on the Kitzsteinhorn
The glacier is usually in operation from autumn into early summer, considerably longer than classic winter sports areas. The exact dates depend on snow and weather conditions.
Pistes for every ability
Alongside broad glacier pistes for beginners and families there are demanding descents and marked freeride routes. Details on the pistes and access are in the article about the Kitzsteinhorn.
Glacier and lake in one region
The combination of a glacier ski area and a lower ski mountain, the Schmittenhöhe on the other side of the valley, makes the region weather-independent: the glacier in good weather, and the sheltered forest descents by the town when it is stormy at 3,000 metres.
What to bring
- Warm clothing: at 3,000 metres it is considerably colder than in the valley.
- Sun protection and goggles, as the radiation on the glacier is intense.
- Time for the ascent: the journey from the valley to the glacier takes longer than a normal lift ride.
