When the landscape around Zell am See-Kaprun turns into a glittering winter wonderland, the finest season of the year begins for cross-country skiers. Between the deep-blue Lake Zell, the gentle valley floors and the high-alpine Kitzsteinhorn glacier, a vast, superbly groomed network of cross-country trails (Loipen) awaits for both classic and skating technique. Whether a relaxed loop through snowy forests or snow-sure high-altitude training – everyone finds their track here.
Valley trails around Zell am See and Kaprun
The heart of the cross-country offering lies in the valley trails. Around Lake Zell and through the wide valley from Kaprun to Piesendorf, varied loops wind across snowy meadows, along streams and through quiet winter forests. The trails are groomed for both classic and skating technique and cover every distance – from a short scenic round to an extended day tour. Selected sections are floodlit as night trails, so you can do your rounds in the beam of light even after dusk.
Cross-country on the glacier: high-altitude trail on the Kitzsteinhorn
A true highlight of the region is snow-sure cross-country skiing on the Kitzsteinhorn. At over 3,000 metres you train in crisp mountain air with a magnificent panorama across the Hohe Tauern. Because conditions are already excellent here in early and late winter, the glacier trail is ideal for anyone starting the season early or wishing to enjoy winter especially long. High-altitude training against a backdrop of snow-capped three-thousanders – not every cross-country region can offer that.
For beginners and families
Anyone standing on narrow skis for the first time will find ideal conditions in Zell am See-Kaprun. Flat, easy-to-follow practice trails in the valley make getting started simple, and the calm loops are perfectly suited to families with children. The steady glide through the winter landscape is a gentle, joint-friendly endurance sport that young and old can enjoy together – without lift stress or crowds.
Technique, lessons and rentals
To help you get started or refine your technique, the local ski and cross-country schools offer courses for all levels – from your first lesson in the classic diagonal stride to ambitious skating training. You don’t need to bring your own equipment: the region’s sports shops and rental stations provide cross-country skis, boots and poles for both classic and skating technique. That makes it wonderfully easy to give the sport a try.
Season & tips
With sufficient snow, the valley cross-country season runs roughly from December to March, while the Kitzsteinhorn glacier allows a considerably longer season. Combine cross-country skiing with the region’s diverse winter offerings: a lap on the winter hiking trails, a day in the nearby ski areas or a relaxed finish in one of the mountain huts. Remember weather-appropriate layered clothing, plenty of fluids and the current trail reports – then nothing stands in the way of a perfect cross-country day in Zell am See-Kaprun.