Skiing in Zell Am See
Zell am See Ski Resort caters to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, with a variety of slopes and trails to choose from. The resort has a total of 138 km of slopes, divided into 58 km of blue (easy), 49 km of red (intermediate), and 31 km of black (difficult) runs. The slopes are well-groomed and maintained, and offer a mix of wide and narrow, steep and gentle, sunny and shady sections. The resort also has 28 km of ski routes, which are marked but not groomed, for those who prefer a more natural and challenging terrain.
For freestyle enthusiasts, Zell am See Ski Resort has three terrain parks, each with its own features and attractions. The Schmitten Funpark is located on the Schmittenhöhe mountain, and has a variety of jumps, rails, boxes, and jibs for all levels. The Glacier Park is located on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, and has a halfpipe, a superpipe, and a slopestyle area for advanced riders. The Easy Park is also located on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, and has a beginner-friendly setup with small and medium-sized obstacles.
For off-piste lovers, Zell am See Ski Resort has plenty of opportunities for exploring the backcountry and powder snow. The resort has several freeride routes, which are marked and secured, but not groomed or patrolled. These routes offer a range of difficulty levels, from easy to extreme, and require good skills and equipment. The resort also has several ski touring routes, which are marked and signposted, but not groomed or secured. These routes allow skiers to climb up the mountains using skins and bindings, and enjoy the untouched snow and scenery on the way down.
Skiing in Zell Am See is not only for adults, but also for children and families. The resort offers family-friendly skiing experiences, such as the Schmidolin’s Kids Club, where children can learn to ski in a fun and safe environment. The club offers children’s skiing programs, such as the Schmidolin’s Ski Course, where children can learn the basics of skiing from professional instructors, or the Schmidolin’s Adventure Park, where children can enjoy various activities, such as tubing, sledding, and snowshoeing. The resort also offers activities for non-skiers accompanying skiing enthusiasts, such as shopping, sightseeing, and cultural events.
| Name | Type | Length | Difficulty | Elevation Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schmittenhöhe-Schüttdorf | Slope | 6 km | Easy | 1250 m |
| Trassabfahrt | Slope | 4 km | Difficult | 1000 m |
| Breiteckpiste | Slope | 3.5 km | Intermediate | 800 m |
| Hochmaispiste | Slope | 3.5 km | Intermediate | 800 m |
| Sonnengratpiste | Slope | 2.5 km | Intermediate | 600 m |
| Südabfahrt | Slope | 2.5 km | Intermediate | 600 m |
| Schüttabfahrt | Slope | 2 km | Easy | 500 m |
| Nordabfahrt | Slope | 2 km | Intermediate | 500 m |
| Osthangpiste | Slope | 1.5 km | Intermediate | 400 m |
| Sonnenkogelpiste | Slope | 1.5 km | Intermediate | 400 m |
| Glocknerwiese | Slope | 1 km | Easy | 300 m |
| Jedermann | Slope | 1 km | Easy | 300 m |
| Hirschkogel | Slope | 1 km | Intermediate | 300 m |
| Kapellenpiste | Slope | 1 km | Easy | 300 m |
| Sonnengalerie | Slope | 1 km | Easy | 300 m |
| Tannwaldabfahrt | Slope | 1 km | Intermediate | 300 m |
| X4 Viehhofen | Ski Route | 7.5 km | Difficult | 1100 m |
| X5 Schmiedhofalm | Ski Route | 4 km | Difficult | 800 m |
| X6 Hochsonnbergalm | Ski Route | 3.5 km | Difficult | 700 m |
| X7 Kettingalm | Ski Route | 3 km | Difficult | 600 m |
| X8 Sonnkogel | Ski Route | 2.5 km | Difficult | 500 m |
| X9 Schmitten | Ski Route | 2 km | Difficult | 400 m |
| X10 Pinzgauer Hütte | Ski Route | 1.5 km | Difficult | 300 m |
| X11 Schmidolin | Ski Route | 1 km | Difficult | 200 m |
Groomed Bliss for Beginners
If you are a beginner skier, you will love the gentle and well-groomed slopes in Zell Am See. The resort has many beginner-friendly trails that offer ample space for learning and practicing the basics of skiing. You can also join one of the ski schools and get lessons from professional instructors who will teach you the skills and techniques you need to enjoy skiing.
One of the best areas for beginners in Zell Am See is the Sonnenalm, which is located at the areitXpress mountain station. The Sonnenalm is a wide and sunny slope that offers a perfect introduction to skiing. The slope is gentle and well-groomed, and has a covered moving carpet that makes the ascent easy and convenient. The slope is also ideal for families, as it has a children’s area, a fun slope, and a family fun park.
Another great area for beginners in Zell Am See is the Glocknerwiese, which is located at the Schmittenhöhebahn mountain station. The Glocknerwiese is a gentle and well-groomed slope that offers a scenic view of the Zeller See lake and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. The slope is also beginner-friendly, as it has a ski school area, a fun slope, and a snowpark.
| Slope Name | Difficulty | Length | Altitude | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonnenalm | Blue | 2 km | 2000 – 1400 m | Wide and sunny slope, covered moving carpet, children’s area, fun slope, family fun park |
| Glocknerwiese | Blue | 1.5 km | 2000 – 1400 m | Gentle and well-groomed slope, scenic view of the lake and glacier, ski school area, fun slope, snowpark |
| Areitbahn | Blue | 3 km | 2000 – 760 m | Gentle and well-groomed slope, easy access, clear signage, smooth terrain |
Intermediate Trails with a Twist
If you are an intermediate skier, you will find a mix of challenge and enjoyment in the slopes of Zell Am See. The resort has many moderate slopes that offer opportunities for skill progression and improvement for intermediate skiers. You can also experience varied terrain and conditions, such as wide and narrow slopes, groomed and ungroomed slopes, and sunny and shady slopes.
As an intermediate skier, you will want to try the red slopes, which are moderate and varied, and offer a balance between challenge and enjoyment. The red slopes are also intermediate-friendly, meaning that they have moderate access, clear signage, and varied terrain. You can also find some ski schools and lessons on or near the red slopes, where you can get professional guidance and tips from instructors.
One of the best areas for intermediate skiers in Zell Am See is the Schüttdorf, which is located at the areitXpress valley station. The Schüttdorf is a long and varied slope that offers a panoramic view of the Zeller See lake and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. The slope has sunny and shady sections, groomed and ungroomed sections, and wide and narrow sections. The slope is also ideal for intermediate skiers, as it offers a mix of challenge and enjoyment, as well as opportunities for skill progression and improvement.
Another great area for intermediate skiers in Zell Am See is the Breiteck, which is located at the Schmittenhöhebahn mountain station. The Breiteck is a wide and moderate slope that offers a scenic view of the Schmittenhöhe summit and the Hohe Tauern mountains. The slope has groomed and ungroomed sections, forested and open sections, and flat and steep sections. The slope is also ideal for intermediate skiers, as it offers varied terrain and conditions, as well as opportunities for skill progression and improvement.
| Slope Name | Difficulty | Length | Altitude | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schüttdorf | Red | 3.5 km | 2000 – 760 m | Moderate and varied slope, sunny and shady sections, scenic views |
| Breiteck | Red | 3 km | 2000 – 1400 m | Moderate and wide slope, groomed and ungroomed sections, forested landscape |
| Sonnkogel | Red | 2 km | 2000 – 1400 m | Moderate and varied slope, fun slope, ski route, panoramic views |
| Hochmais | Red | 3 km | 2000 – 1400 m | Moderate and wide slope, fun slope, ski route, scenic views |
| Maiskogel | Blue/Red | 4.5 km | 1570 – 768 m | Gentle and sunny slope, family-friendly, fun slope, Maisi Line |
If you want to explore the lesser-known trails and hidden gems of Zell Am See, you can follow the hidden gems and scenic detours tips. The resort has many trails that are not as crowded or popular as the others, but offer hidden beauty and tranquility. You can also take scenic detours and discover new spots and views along the way. Some of the hidden gems and scenic detours are the Maiskogel, the Sonnkogel, and the Hochmais.
The Maiskogel is a gentle and sunny slope that offers a family-friendly skiing experience. The slope is located at the Maiskogelbahn valley station, and has a ski school area, a fun slope, and a Maisi Line. The slope is also ideal for intermediate skiers, as it offers a relaxing and enjoyable skiing experience, as well as a scenic view of the Kaprun valley and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier.
The Sonnkogel is a moderate and varied slope that offers a panoramic view of the Zeller See lake and the Schmittenhöhe summit. The slope is located at the Sonnenalmbahn mountain station, and has a fun slope, a ski route, and a Sonnengratpiste. The slope is also ideal for intermediate skiers, as it offers varied terrain and conditions, as well as opportunities for skill progression and improvement.
The Hochmais is a moderate and wide slope that offers a scenic view of the Hohe Tauern mountains and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. The slope is located at the Hochmaisbahn mountain station, and has a fun slope, a ski route, and a Hochmaispiste. The slope is also ideal for intermediate skiers, as it offers varied terrain and conditions, as well as opportunities for skill progression and improvement.
Advanced Challenges and Off-Piste Adventures
If you are an advanced skier, you will be thrilled by the slopes of Zell Am See. The resort has many difficult slopes that offer challenges and excitement for experienced skiers. You can also explore the off-piste areas and ski routes, where you can find fresh powder, steep descents, and mogul fields. Some of the best slopes for advanced skiers are the Trassabfahrt, the Black Mamba, and the Kristallbahn.
Schmittenhöhe is the main ski area above Zell Am See, reaching an altitude of 6,447 ft. It has 48 miles of slopes, with a balanced distribution of easy, intermediate and difficult runs. It also has eight ski routes for more adventurous skiers, as well as a fun slope, a ski movie slope and an Audi ski run. Schmittenhöhe is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including more than 30 peaks over 9,800 ft. It is a family-friendly ski area, with a children’s slope, a dragon park and a kids club. Schmittenhöhe is accessible by several cable cars and lifts from Zell Am See and the nearby villages.
Kitzsteinhorn is the glacier ski area south of Kaprun, reaching an altitude of 10,509 ft. It has 37 miles of slopes, mostly suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers. It also has three snow parks, a superpipe, a freeride area and a ski touring route. Kitzsteinhorn is the region’s crowning glory in springtime, as it offers reliable snow conditions and longer days until the end of May. It also boasts spectacular alpine views and a panoramic platform at the summit. Kitzsteinhorn is accessible by a bus from Kaprun and a cable car from the valley station.
| Name | Length | Difficulty | Elevation | Lift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonnenalmabfahrt | 2.7 km | Black | 1,100 m | Sonnenalmbahn |
| Nordabfahrt | 3.3 km | Black | 1,200 m | trassXpress |
| Trassabfahrt | 4 km | Black | 1,000 m | trassXpress |
| Standardabfahrt | 3.5 km | Red/Black | 1,000 m | Schmittenhöhebahn |
| Kettingalmabfahrt | 3.5 km | Red/Black | 1,000 m | Kettingbahn |
Snowboarding Trails in Zell Am See
Zell am See also has a variety of snowboarding areas, such as parks, pipes, and off-piste trails. Here are some of the best snowboarding trails in Zell am See:
- Schmittenhöhe: This is the main mountain of Zell am See, with a top elevation of 2000 m and a vertical drop of 1243 m. It has 49 pistes, ranging from easy to advanced, and a snow park with a halfpipe, kickers, rails, and boxes. Schmittenhöhe also offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding peaks, and is considered one of the most scenic ski areas in Austria.
- Köhlergraben Promenade: This is a 1.5 km long trail that starts from the Schmittenhöhe cable car station and follows the Köhlergraben stream. It is a moderate trail with a 150 m altitude difference, and is ideal for snowshoeing or winter hiking. The trail passes through a forest and offers a peaceful and natural experience.
- Bruckberg Trail: This is a 2.2 km long trail that starts from the Bruckberg chairlift station and leads to the valley. It is a challenging trail with a 276 m altitude difference, and is suitable for advanced snowboarders who enjoy off-piste riding. The trail offers some steep and narrow sections, as well as some open fields and powder snow.
If you are looking for a snowboarding school or a rental service in Zell am See, you can check out some of the options below:
- Skischule Zell am See: This is a ski and snowboard school that offers courses for children, teens, and adults, as well as private lessons. They have qualified and experienced instructors who can teach you the basics or improve your skills. They also have a ski rental service with a wide range of equipment and accessories.
- Outdo – Ski & Snowboard School: This is another ski and snowboard school that offers professional and personalized coaching for all levels and ages. They have a team of certified and friendly instructors who can help you with snow plough turns, carving turns, or technique for powder or moguls. They also have a snowboard rental service with high-quality gear and boards.
- Ski & Board mit uns: This is a ski and snowboard school that operates in both Zell am See and Kaprun. They offer group and individual lessons, as well as special programs for kids, freestyle, and freeride. They have a staff of enthusiastic and skilled instructors who can make your snowboarding experience fun and safe. They also have a ski and snowboard rental service with modern and well-maintained equipment.
| Trail Name | Length | Altitude Difference | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schmittenhöhe | 49 pistes | 1243 m | Easy to advanced | A scenic mountain with a snow park, a halfpipe, and a variety of slopes |
| Köhlergraben Promenade | 1.5 km | 150 m | Moderate | A trail that follows a stream through a forest, ideal for snowshoeing or winter hiking |
| Bruckberg Trail | 2.2 km | 276 m | Challenging | A trail that leads to the valley, suitable for advanced snowboarders who enjoy off-piste riding |
Freestyle and Terrain Parks
If you are a snowboarder or a freestyle skier, you will love the terrain parks in Zell Am See. The resort has several terrain parks for different levels and styles, where you can show off your tricks and jumps. The terrain parks have various features, such as rails, boxes, kickers, and half-pipes. You can also enjoy the design and layout of the freestyle areas, such as the Glacier Park, the Easy Park, and the Superpipe.
- Snow Parks on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier: The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier is a short drive from Zell Am See and provides an extra-long freestyle season with top snow quality. The glacier has five snow parks, each with a different level of difficulty and style. The Glacier Park is open from autumn onwards and has features for all levels, from beginners to pros. The Easy Park and the Central Park (including the South-Central Park) are open in winter and offer creative and diverse setups for shredding. The superpipe on the glacier is a highlight for halfpipe riders, with a length of 150 meters and walls up to 6.5 meters high. The superpipe hosts international events and attracts top athletes for training. The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier is also home to five freeriding routes, which include powder lines, cliff jumps and natural pipes.
- Snow Park on the Schmittenhöhe: The Schmittenhöhe is the local mountain of Zell Am See and has a snow park area next to the Funslope XXL. The snow park is ideal for beginners and intermediate riders, who can practice their skills on butter boxes, wave boxes, industry pipes, jib barrels, rails and kickers. The snow park also has a great view over the lake and the surrounding mountains.
- Maisi Park on the Maiskogel: The Maiskogel is a family-friendly ski area near Zell Am See and Kaprun. It has a Maisi Park, which is designed for children and young freestylers. The Maisi Park has a wave run, a mini halfpipe, a mini kicker line and a mini rail line. The park is a fun and safe place for kids to learn and enjoy freestyle.
| Location | Name | Features | Difficulty | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitzsteinhorn Glacier | Glacier Park | Features for all levels, from beginners to pros | Easy to hard | Autumn onwards |
| Kitzsteinhorn Glacier | Easy Park | Creative and diverse setups for shredding | Easy | Winter |
| Kitzsteinhorn Glacier | Central Park (including South-Central Park) | Creative and diverse setups for shredding | Intermediate to hard | Winter |
| Kitzsteinhorn Glacier | Superpipe | A 150-meter long halfpipe with walls up to 6.5 meters high | Hard | Winter |
| Kitzsteinhorn Glacier | Freeriding routes | Powder lines, cliff jumps and natural pipes | Hard | Winter |
| Schmittenhöhe | Snow Park | Butter boxes, wave boxes, industry pipes, jib barrels, rails and kickers | Easy to intermediate | Winter |
| Maiskogel | Maisi Park | Wave run, mini halfpipe, mini kicker line and mini rail line | Easy | Winter |
Cross-country skiing
Zell am See is part of the Zell am See-Kaprun region, which offers a total of 107 kilometres of cross-country ski trails for skiers of all abilities and preferences. You can explore the network of tracks that connect Zell am See with the neighbouring towns of Kaprun, Piesendorf, Niedernsill, Bruck, Fusch, Maishofen and Saalfelden, and enjoy the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains, glistening glaciers and the cobalt blue waters of Lake Zell.
One of the highlights of cross-country skiing in Zell am See-Kaprun is the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier Resort, which is open from October to mid-April and offers guaranteed snow and excellent conditions for cross-country skiing. Here, you can glide on the glacial cross-country tracks at an altitude of over 2,900 metres, and experience the silence and the sound of the skis in the snow. You can also challenge yourself on the famous Black Mamba slope, which has a gradient of 63 per cent and is one of the steepest on the Kitzsteinhorn. If you need a break, you can visit the ICE CAMP, a cluster of impressive igloos that host ice art installations and a sun deck, or the Gipfel Restaurant, the highest restaurant in Salzburg that serves regional and seasonal dishes.
Another great place for cross-country skiing in Zell am See-Kaprun is the Schmittenhöhe mountain, which is family-friendly and offers a variety of slopes for all levels of skiers. Beginners and younger skiers can have fun on the Funslope XXL, one of the longest funslopes in the world, while more experienced skiers can test their skills on the Trass slope, a black slope that descends steeply from over 1,000 metres. You can also sign up for the Ski’n’Brunch experience, where you can watch the sunrise over the deserted slopes and enjoy a hearty brunch afterwards. If you want to try something different, you can also join a winter yoga session, a snowshoe hike or a cross-country ski course on the Schmittenhöhe.
| Location | Altitude | Length | Difficulty | Style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitzsteinhorn Glacier Resort | 2,900 m | 3 km | Moderate | Classic and skating |
| Schmittenhöhe mountain | 1,400 m | 10 km | Easy to hard | Classic and skating |
| Zell am See valley | 750 m | 40 km | Easy to moderate | Classic and skating |
| Kaprun valley | 800 m | 12 km | Easy | Classic and skating |
