Key facts at a glance
Skiing in Kaprun means snow-sure glacier skiing on the Kitzsteinhorn (up to 3,029 m) as well as slopes on the family-friendly Maiskogel, connected to the glacier via the K-onnection. Part of the Ski ALPIN CARD, with over 400 kilometres of slopes.
Part of our complete guide: Zell am See–Kaprun in Winter: Ski Holidays & Winter Magic
Skiing in Kaprun means snow-sure days on the slopes from autumn well into spring – and that is exactly what makes the Kaprun ski area around the Kitzsteinhorn glacier so special. Anyone who combines skiing at the Kitzsteinhorn with the wide-open runs of the neighbouring Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See gets to experience one of Austria’s most versatile winter sports regions. In this practical ski guide you will find everything about the slopes, the ski pass, the ski schools and how to get there.
Skiing in Kaprun: An Overview
The heart of the Kaprun ski area is the Kitzsteinhorn glacier – Austria’s most snow-sure glacier ski area at around 3,000 metres. Skiing here runs from autumn into spring and partly into early summer, when the slopes down in the valley have long turned green. The glacier area is complemented by the Maiskogel, Kaprun’s family-friendly local mountain, with a long valley run leading directly down to the village centre.
The two mountains are linked by the MK Maiskogelbahn and the 3K K-onnection – a spectacular tricable gondola that connects the Maiskogel across the valley directly with the Kitzsteinhorn. This way you glide from the village centre up to the glacier without a ski depot. This connection makes Kaprun one of the few places in the Alps where you can travel by cable car straight from the village up to 3,000 metres.
The Slopes: Kitzsteinhorn & Maiskogel
The range of slopes at the Kitzsteinhorn covers every level. In the area around the Alpincenter at roughly 2,450 metres, beginners find wide, gentle practice slopes with guaranteed snow. Higher up, the classic glacier runs lead to the summit area at 3,029 metres – long, even carving pistes with a stunning panorama across the Hohe Tauern.
Sporty skiers get their money’s worth off-piste: the legendary Black Mamba run is one of the steepest marked slopes in Austria, and the designated freeride routes attract powder fans. Freestylers meet at the Kitzsteinhorn Snowpark, one of the highest and longest-open snowparks in the Alps. The Maiskogel rounds it all off with family-friendly slopes and a valley run of around 5 kilometres.
Skiing in Zell am See: Schmittenhöhe
On the opposite side of the valley rises the Schmittenhöhe, the ski mountain right above the Zeller See. In contrast to the high-alpine glacier, the Schmitten presents itself with forest-lined runs, varied slopes and one of the finest views in the Alps – the famous Trass panorama of more than 30 three-thousand-metre peaks.
The Schmittenhöhe offers around 77 kilometres of slopes in all difficulty grades and, thanks to modern lift systems, is excellently developed. From the sunny family slope to the demanding black run, everyone finds their terrain here. Together with the Kitzsteinhorn and the Maiskogel it forms the Zell am See-Kaprun ski region.
Ski Pass: Ski ALPIN CARD
The region’s joint ski pass is the Ski ALPIN CARD. With just one ticket you ski on the Schmittenhöhe, at the Kitzsteinhorn and on the Maiskogel – including the further connected areas, you reach around 408 kilometres of slopes. This makes the Ski ALPIN CARD one of the most attractive multi-day tickets in the Eastern Alps.
Prices vary depending on the season and advance booking – always check the current rates on the official website before you travel. Tickets are available online in advance (often cheaper), at the ticket offices of the valley stations and from vending machines. Anyone staying several days benefits from lower daily prices with multi-day passes.
Beginners & Ski Schools
Kaprun and Zell am See are outstandingly suited to newcomers. On the Maiskogel and at the practice lifts in the valley, children and beginners learn on safe, gentle terrain, while advanced skiers enjoy snow-sure slopes on the glacier. The region’s renowned ski schools offer group and private lessons for all age groups.
Equipment rental is uncomplicated too: numerous sports shops right at the valley stations rent out skis, snowboards, helmets and boots. Anyone arriving without their own gear is well looked after here. Tip: reserve ski lessons and rental equipment in good time during the high season.
Getting There & Practical Tips
The nearest airport is Salzburg, from where it is around 100 kilometres to Zell am See-Kaprun. By car you reach the region comfortably via the Tauern motorway; large car parks are available at all valley stations. Zell am See is also well connected by rail, and a ski bus network links the towns with the lifts.
The best time for reliable snow runs from December to April, and on the glacier even beyond. After a day on the slopes, the lively après-ski scene around the valley stations and in the town centre of Zell am See beckons. You will find further inspiration in our winter holiday overview as well as in the comprehensive travel guide for Zell am See-Kaprun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kaprun good for skiing?
Yes, thanks to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier Kaprun is one of the most snow-sure ski areas in Austria. Combined with the Maiskogel and the Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See, the region offers varied slopes for every ability – from beginner to pro.
When is the Kitzsteinhorn glacier open for skiing?
The Kitzsteinhorn glacier is usually open from autumn into early summer, making it one of the longest-skiable areas in the Alps. The exact opening times depend on snow conditions and weather – check the official website before you travel.
Is Kaprun good for beginners?
Absolutely. The Maiskogel and the practice lifts in the valley offer flat, safe slopes for learning, and the local ski schools look after newcomers of every age. This makes for a relaxed start into skiing.
Whether snow-sure glacier skiing at the Kitzsteinhorn, family-friendly runs at the Maiskogel or the panorama of the Schmittenhöhe – skiing in Kaprun and Zell am See combines everything that makes for a perfect ski holiday. With the Ski ALPIN CARD, top ski schools and a short journey, nothing stands in the way of your next winter dream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you ski in Kaprun?
On the Kitzsteinhorn glacier (up to 3,029 m) for snow-sure high-altitude skiing and on the family-friendly Maiskogel, connected to the glacier via the K-onnection.
How long is the ski season in Kaprun?
Thanks to the glacier on the Kitzsteinhorn, Kaprun is among the most snow-sure ski areas and has one of the longest seasons in Austria, often from autumn into spring.
Is Kaprun suitable for beginners and families?
Yes, the Maiskogel in particular offers easy slopes and practice runs, while the glacier holds more challenging descents.
Is Kaprun part of a larger ski network?
Yes, via the Ski ALPIN CARD the Kitzsteinhorn, Maiskogel and Schmittenhöhe as well as further areas are connected, with over 400 kilometres of slopes in total.