Ski Resort Zell am Ziller

Ski Resort Zell am Ziller - Austria Travel Guide - By Travel S Helper

Zell am Ziller is a beautiful ski resort in the Austrian Alps’ central area. Zell am Ziller, located in the Tyrolean Zillertal valley, is known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, outstanding skiing and snowboarding opportunities, and charming traditional hamlets. One of Zell am Ziller’s most notable characteristics is its extensive ski area.

The ski resort has 163 kilometers of pistes and 51 contemporary ski lifts, offering a wide range of exciting skiing experiences. Individuals of all ability levels participate in skiing and snowboarding sports at the resort. It has a wide variety of slopes, including moderate beginner runs and difficult black routes for specialists.

There are also various off-piste possibilities for those looking for a higher level of challenge. The terrain parks at the resort are intended to meet the needs of snowboarders, with a variety of jumps, rails, and obstacles. Additionally, persons interested in cross-country skiing have options, since the region has approximately 200 kilometers of routes. Zell am Ziller offers a number of additional winter activities in addition to skiing and snowboarding.

Among the magnificent snowy scenery, guests may participate in a variety of winter sports such as tobogganing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. Aside from the skiing, Zell am Ziller is a charming hamlet with a choice of pleasant cafes, taverns, and restaurants serving classic Austrian cuisine. Guests may participate in a variety of activities in the surrounding area, such as going on a scenic hiking expedition, visiting local museums, or taking a day trip to adjacent towns and cities.

In general, Zell am Ziller is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a winter holiday that includes skiing, snowboarding, and other exciting winter activities in a magnificent alpine setting.

Resort Altitude580m
Highest Lift2500m
Total Piste163km
Uphill Capacity76095
Total Lifts51
Gondolas/Cable cars5
Chairlifts26
Drag Lifts19
Snow Parks1

Skiing in Zell am Ziller

Zell am Ziller is a picturesque ski resort in Austria’s Zillertal valley, offering a broad range of skiing and snowboarding possibilities for all skill levels and abilities. Zell am Ziller has 143 kilometers of slopes, 51 lifts, and several off-piste skiing areas, making it a perfect winter sports destination.

The resort has modern infrastructure and high-end services to meet the needs of both novice and expert skiers. The ski routes are scrupulously maintained, and the snow conditions are great, ensuring a fantastic skiing experience throughout the season. The ski resort is located at a height of 2500 meters and offers breathtaking views of the Zillertal Alps.

The skiing terrain in Zell am Ziller is extensive, with slopes divided into three separate ski regions, each with its own particular qualities and charm. The Action-Park Kreuzwiese is a popular location for freestyle skiers and snowboarders due to its unique collection of jumps, rails, boxes, and obstacles. Gerlossteinbahn’s ski slope is ideal for families and beginning skiers, with gentle inclines, snow parks, and special sections for children. Skiers with a lot of experience will love it.

The Zillertal Arena offers a broad range of freeride locations and challenging slopes, including the famed Harakiri, Austria’s steepest slope, which provides an unsurpassed adrenaline rush. Skiing in Zell am Ziller, in general, delivers a fantastic experience for those who enjoy winter sports. The resort offers great skiing conditions, spectacular mountain views, and first-rate amenities, making it an ideal destination for an amazing skiing trip.

Ski Slopes in Zell am Ziller

Zell am Ziller is the gateway to the Zillertal Arena ski area, which is the largest ski area in the Zillertal valley. The Zillertal Arena ski area covers four mountains: Zell am Ziller, Gerlos, Königsleiten, and Hochkrimml. The ski area also spans two provinces: Tyrol and Salzburg. The ski area has 150 km of slopes, 52 lifts, and 200 km of cross-country trails. The ski area is suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities, from beginners to experts. The ski area also has a variety of additional offers, such as funparks, halfpipes, ski movie tracks, speed check tracks, and toboggan runs.

Zell am Ziller has 50 km of slopes and 13 lifts, which are located on the Rosenalm and the Karspitz. The slopes range from easy blue runs to challenging black runs. There are also ski routes, which are marked but not groomed. The slopes are well-maintained and offer a variety of terrain, from wide and gentle slopes to steep and narrow slopes. The slopes are also suitable for beginners, experts, and families.

Blue Slopes

Ski Slopes in Zell am Ziller

The ski slopes in Zell am Ziller are divided into three categories: blue, red, and black, according to their difficulty level.

Blue slopes are the easiest slopes in Zell am Ziller, and are ideal for beginners, children, and families. They are mostly wide, gentle, and well-groomed, and offer a relaxing and enjoyable skiing experience. There are 43 blue slopes in Zell am Ziller, covering a total of 43 km. Some of the blue slopes in Zell am Ziller are:

  • Slope 10: This is the longest blue slope in Zell am Ziller, with a length of 7 km. It starts from the top of the Rosenalmbahn cable car, and descends to the valley station, passing through the Rosenalm ski area and the Zell am Ziller adventure pool. It is a scenic and varied slope, with some flat and steep sections, and offers a great view of the Zillertal valley.
  • Slope 31: This is a short and easy blue slope in Gerlos, with a length of 1 km. It starts from the top of the Dorfbahn Gerlos cable car, and ends at the Isskogelbahn cable car. It is a perfect slope for beginners and children, as it has a gentle gradient and a wide piste. It is also close to the Gerlos village center, where there are many facilities and services.
  • Slope 51: This is a fun and exciting blue slope in Königsleiten, with a length of 2.5 km. It starts from the top of the Dorfbahn Königsleiten cable car, and ends at the valley station. It is a varied slope, with some curves and bumps, and offers a great view of the Königsleiten village and the surrounding mountains. It is also connected to the Sonnwendkopfbahn cable car, which leads to another ski area.

Red Slopes

Ski Slopes in Zell am Ziller

Red slopes are the intermediate slopes in Zell am Ziller, and are suitable for skiers and snowboarders who have some experience and confidence. They are mostly narrow, steep, and challenging, and offer a thrilling and satisfying skiing experience. There are 89 red slopes in Zell am Ziller, covering a total of 99 km. Some of the red slopes in Zell am Ziller are:

  • Slope 14: This is one of the most popular red slopes in Zell am Ziller, with a length of 3.5 km. It starts from the top of the Karspitzbahn cable car, and descends to the valley station, passing through the Karspitz ski area and the Arena Coaster. It is a fast and exhilarating slope, with some sharp turns and jumps, and offers a great view of the Zillertal Arena ski resort.
  • Slope 33: This is one of the most challenging red slopes in Gerlos, with a length of 2 km. It starts from the top of the Ebenfeld X-Press chairlift, and ends at the Stuanmandl cable car. It is a steep and narrow slope, with some moguls and ice, and requires good skills and technique. It is also part of the SkiMovie track, where skiers can record and share their performance online.
  • Slope 53: This is one of the most scenic red slopes in Königsleiten, with a length of 3 km. It starts from the top of the Gipfelbahn cable car, and ends at the valley station, passing through the Hochalmkar ski area and the Mühlachalm J-bar. It is a varied and beautiful slope, with some gentle and steep sections, and offers a panoramic view of the Königsleiten peak and the Gerlosplatte.

Black Slopes

Ski Slopes in Zell am Ziller

Black slopes are the most difficult slopes in Zell am Ziller, and are only recommended for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders. They are mostly very steep, narrow, and ungroomed, and offer a demanding and adventurous skiing experience. There are 18 black slopes in Zell am Ziller, covering a total of 8 km. Some of the black slopes in Zell am Ziller are:

  • Slope 19: This is the newest black slope in Zell am Ziller, with a length of 2 km. It was opened in the 2015/2016 season, and is the first black valley run to Zell am Ziller. It starts from the top of the Kreuzjoch X-Press chairlift, and descends to the valley station, passing through the Kreuzwiese ski area and the Zillertal Valley Regional Museum. It is a very steep and challenging slope, with a gradient of up to 78%, and requires a lot of courage and stamina.
  • Slope 38: This is one of the most famous black slopes in Gerlos, with a length of 1.5 km. It starts from the top of the Isskogelbahn cable car, and ends at the valley station, passing through the Isskogel ski area and the Gerlos village center. It is a legendary slope, known as the “Stoanmandl”, which means “stone man” in the local dialect. It is a very steep and bumpy slope, with some rocks and cliffs, and requires a lot of skill and concentration.
  • Slope 52: This is one of the most fun and exciting black slopes in Königsleiten, with a length of 1 km. It starts from the top of the Larmachbahn chairlift, and ends at the valley station, passing through the Larmach ski area and the Märchenwald T-bar. It is a varied and playful slope, with some curves, jumps, and obstacles, and offers a great view of the Königsleiten village and the surrounding mountains. It is also part of the Action Park, where skiers can enjoy some fun and challenging features, such as rails, boxes, and kickers.

Ski Lifts in Zell am Ziller

The ski resort in Zell am Ziller has a wide variety of ski lifts that are designed to provide seamless and joyful transportation over the slopes. The Rosenalmbahn is widely regarded as one of the most popular ski lifts in Zell am Ziller. The lift indicated above transports skiers and snowboarders from Zell am Ziller to the Rosenalm ski region, which is located at an elevation of 1,688 meters. The Rosenalmbahn is a detachable gondola lift that can accommodate up to eight riders each ride.

Another popular ski lift in Zell am Ziller is the Karspitzbahn. The chairlift indicated above is a detachable high-speed lift that delivers skiers to the Karspitz ski area. The Karspitzbahn has a maximum throughput of 2,800 people per hour and provides access to some of the best skiing options in the area. The Isskogelbahn is a ski lift in Zell am Ziller that provides access to a variety of ski lines. This is a modern gondola lift with a capacity of eight people that transports skiers to an elevation of 1,900 meters. Skiers may then access a range of beginners, advanced, and expert level ski lines.

Aside from the aforementioned lifts, Zell am Ziller has three more: the Gerlossteinbahn, the Zillertal Arena, and the Hochzillertalbahn. at general, the ski lifts at Zell am Ziller are modern, efficient, and provide good access to a varied range of ski terrain. This Austrian ski resort has lifts for skiers of all skill levels, from beginner to experienced.

NameTypeYear of ConstructionCapacityLengthCarrying Capacity/Hour
Gerlosstein40pers. Aerial tramway/Reversible ropeway1988402264 m500
Krimml-X-Press (Wilde Krimml)10pers. Gondola lift with seat heating (monocable circulating ropeway)2023101870 m2400
Stuanmandlbahn10pers. Gondola lift with seat heating (monocable circulating ropeway)2019101528 m2800
Dorfbahn Gerlos I10pers. Gondola lift with seat heating (monocable circulating ropeway)2016101134 m2413
Dorfbahn Gerlos II10pers. Gondola lift with seat heating (monocable circulating ropeway)2016101466 m2413
Königsleiten Gipfelbahn8pers. Gondola lift with seat heating (monocable circulating ropeway)201181248 m2754
Dorfbahn Königsleiten I8pers. Gondola lift with seat heating (monocable circulating ropeway)20108930 m2382
Dorfbahn Königsleiten II8pers. Gondola lift with seat heating (monocable circulating ropeway)201081705 m2382
Falschbachbahn8pers. Gondola lift with seat heating (monocable circulating ropeway)201081244 m2800
Karspitzbahn II8pers. Gondola lift (monocable circulating ropeway)201082267 m2400
Karspitzbahn I8pers. Gondola lift (monocable circulating ropeway)200881826 m2400
Isskogelbahn8pers. Gondola lift (monocable circulating ropeway)200482052 m2400
Sonnwendkopf8pers. Gondola lift (monocable circulating ropeway)200381754 m2000
Rosenalm I8pers. Gondola lift (monocable circulating ropeway)199581910 m2880
Rosenalm II8pers. Gondola lift (monocable circulating ropeway)199581745 m2880
Kapaunsbahn8pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble and seat heating202281936 m2940
Plattenkogelexpress I8pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble20038963 m2400
Larmach6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble and seat heating201861157 m2800
Moseltret-X-Press6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble and seat heating20136650 m2420
Kreuzwiesn-X-Press6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble201261235 m1800
KreuzjochXpress6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble200761255 m2400
HanserXpress6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble200161571 m2400
Plattenkogelexpress II6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble200061560 m2400
KarspitzXpress6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble199961589 m2800
Duxer 6er Bubble6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable) with bubble199861181 m2400
KrummbachXpress6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable)200061838 m2000
FussalmXpress6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable)199961667 m2400
EbenfeldXpress6pers. High speed chairlift (detachable)199961370 m2500
Filzsteinbahn4pers. High speed chairlift (detachable)199741350 m2000
Teufeltal4pers. Chairlift (fixed-grip)199841043 m1800
Duxeralmbahn4pers. Chairlift (fixed-grip)199241043 m1800
Mitterleger2pers. Chairlift (fixed-grip)199621531 m1386
Arbiskogel2pers. Chairlift (fixed-grip)19892502 m1440
Sonnalm2pers. Chairlift (fixed-grip)198121701 m1113
Plattenanger IIT-bar1981365 m1046
Plattenanger IT-bar1978446 m1290
LarchkopfT-bar770 m1200
HandlalmT-bar675 m1200
PlattenkogelT-bar860 m1200
MärchenwaldT-bar604 m1120
EberharterliftT-bar460 m800
VorkogelT-bar789 m1200
MühlachalmJ-bar2015329 m621
DuxerJ-bar278 m700
FilzsteinJ-bar296 m800
TaxerJ-bar590 m800
KröllerJ-bar370 m500
HaberlJ-bar300 m500
Babylift GerlossteinRope tow/baby lift with low rope tow200 m570
Babylift MärchenwaldRope tow/baby lift with low rope tow110 m700
Kinderland 1Rope tow/baby lift with low rope tow50 m500
Kinderland 2Rope tow/baby lift with low rope tow50 m500

Types of Ski Lifts

Ski Lifts in Zell am Ziller

Zell am Ziller has a total of 13 ski lifts, which can transport up to 25,000 people per hour. The ski lifts are divided into three types: cable cars, chairlifts, and drag lifts. Here is a brief description of each type:

  • Cable cars: These are large cabins that run on cables and can carry up to 10 people. They are fast, comfortable, and safe, and can cover long distances and high altitudes. Zell am Ziller has two cable cars: the Rosenalmbahn 1 and 2, which connect the town center to the Rosenalm ski area, and the Karspitzbahn 1 and 2, which connect the town center to the Karspitz ski area.
  • Chairlifts: These are seats that run on cables and can carry up to 6 people. They are convenient, efficient, and fun, and can cover medium distances and altitudes. Zell am Ziller has six chairlifts: the Karspitz X-Press, the Hanser X-Press, the Wilde Krimml, the Kreuzjoch X-Press, the Kapauns, and the Kreuzwiesn X-Press.
  • Drag lifts: These are poles or discs that run on cables and can pull up to 2 people. They are simple, cheap, and easy to use, and can cover short distances and low altitudes. Zell am Ziller has five drag lifts: the Plattenanger I and II, the Zauberteppiche, the Märchenwaldlift, and the Eberharterlift.

Features of Ski Lifts

Ski Lifts in Zell am Ziller

Zell am Ziller’s ski lifts offer a variety of features and services that enhance the skiing experience and cater to different needs and preferences. Some of the features are:

  • Heated seats: Some of the chairlifts, such as the Karspitz X-Press and the Kreuzjoch X-Press, have heated seats that provide warmth and comfort in cold weather.
  • Weather protection: Some of the chairlifts, such as the Hanser X-Press and the Kreuzwiesn X-Press, have weather protection hoods that shield the passengers from wind, snow, and rain.
  • Child safety: Some of the chairlifts, such as the Wilde Krimml and the Kapauns, have child safety bars that prevent children from falling off the seats.
  • SkiMovie: Some of the slopes, such as the Zell am Ziller and the Ebenfeld X-Press, have SkiMovie stations that record the skiers’ performance and allow them to watch and share their videos online.
  • Speed Check: Some of the slopes, such as the Zell am Ziller and the Ebenfeld X-Press, have Speed Check stations that measure the skiers’ speed and display it on a screen.
  • Action Park: Some of the slopes, such as the Kreuzwiese, have Action Park areas that offer fun and challenging obstacles, such as jumps, rails, and boxes.

Zillertal Arena Ski Pass

Ski Lifts in Zell am Ziller

Zell am Ziller’s ski lifts are included in the Zillertal Arena ski pass, which allows access to all the ski lifts and slopes in the Zillertal Arena ski resort. The ski pass can be purchased online or at the ticket offices in the town center or at the valley stations of the cable cars. The prices of the ski pass vary depending on the season, the duration, the age, and the discounts. 

  • Adult: A one-day ski pass costs 58.50 euros, a two-day ski pass costs 112.50 euros, a three-day ski pass costs 162.50 euros, and a six-day ski pass costs 277.50 euros.
  • Child: A one-day ski pass costs 26 euros, a two-day ski pass costs 50 euros, a three-day ski pass costs 72 euros, and a six-day ski pass costs 123 euros. Children born in 2015 or later can ski for free if accompanied by an adult.
  • Youth: A one-day ski pass costs 44 euros, a two-day ski pass costs 85 euros, a three-day ski pass costs 122.50 euros, and a six-day ski pass costs 208.50 euros. Youth born in 2004, 2005, or 2006 can get a 25% discount on the adult price.
  • Senior: A one-day ski pass costs 52.50 euros, a two-day ski pass costs 101 euros, a three-day ski pass costs 146 euros, and a six-day ski pass costs 249.50 euros. Senior born in 1957 or earlier can get a 10% discount on the adult price.

Snow conditions in Zell am Ziller

The snow conditions at Zell am Ziller may fluctuate throughout the season. The ski season in Zell am Ziller typically begins in early December and ends in late April. The best skiing conditions are often seen between January and March. The average snowfall in Zell am Ziller is about 4 meters every season. Zell am Ziller offers a diverse range of ski conditions for skiers of all ability levels, including beginners and specialists. The ski slopes are painstakingly groomed and maintained, with a mix of natural and artificial snow used to give excellent skiing conditions throughout the season. To recap, visitors to Zell am Ziller may expect to find ideal snow conditions and a range of high-quality skiing possibilities from early December to late April.

Apres-ski in Zell am Ziller

The après-ski tradition is an important part of the skiing trip, and Zell am Ziller has a variety of après-ski options. Visitors may enjoy apres-ski entertainment at one of the attractive local inns, rustic lounges, small bistros, or delightful cafés after a day of skiing. Guests may enjoy traditional Zillertal delicacies as well as foreign food at these venues.

The Kristallhütte, located at the peak of Zillertal Arena, is a well-known après-ski resort. The restaurant offers spectacular views of the neighboring mountain range as well as a great array of cuisine and beverages. Almbar is a lively bar at the base of the ski slope. Each evening, live musical performances are complemented by a broad range of beverages and light appetizers.

The Hochzillertalhütte is a typical mountain hut located at the Hochzillertal peak. The restaurant serves classic Austrian food and drinks, and there are daily live musical performances. The Krahbergzinkenalm is a cozy mountain chalet located near the ski resort’s intermediate station. The restaurant offers a good selection of beverages and snacks, and live musical events are organized on a regular basis.

Postalm is a typical Austrian bar in the centre of Zell am Ziller. The business has a pleasant and comfortable ambience, making it a great place to rest and unwind after a day of skiing.Within the resort, there are various bars and pubs where guests may have a drink or two while immersing themselves in the dynamic atmosphere.

Dining Options within the Resort

Apres-ski in Zell am Ziller

Zell am Ziller has a variety of dining options, from cozy huts and restaurants to self-service cafeterias and snack bars. You can find traditional Tyrolean dishes, such as Kaiserschmarrn, Gröstl, or Knödel, as well as international cuisine, such as pizza, pasta, or burgers. You can also find vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

  • Arena Alm: This is a modern and spacious restaurant, located at the bottom station of the Zillertal Arena. It offers a self-service buffet, with a variety of dishes, salads, and desserts. It also has a large sun terrace, where you can enjoy the views of the slopes and the valley. The Arena Alm is open from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm, and hosts live music and events in the evenings.
  • Zellerstuben: This is a traditional and cozy restaurant, located in the village center of Zell am Ziller. It offers a la carte service, with a selection of Tyrolean and international specialties. It also has a rustic and romantic atmosphere, with wooden furniture and a fireplace. The Zellerstuben is open from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, and serves a daily menu and a children’s menu.
  • Kreuzwiesenalm: This is a charming and authentic hut, located on the Kreuzwiese slope. It offers a la carte service, with a choice of homemade and regional dishes. It also has a panoramic and sunny terrace, where you can relax and enjoy the views of the mountains. The Kreuzwiesenalm is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and serves a breakfast buffet and a snack menu.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Apres-ski in Zell am Ziller

Zell am Ziller has a lively and fun nightlife, with many bars, pubs, clubs, and discos. You can enjoy live music, DJ sets, karaoke, or themed parties. You can also find quiet and cozy places, where you can relax and chat with friends. Some of the popular nightlife venues in Zell am Ziller are:

  • Saustadl Après Ski Bar: This is the place to be for the apres-ski party in Zell am Ziller. It is located opposite the bottom station of the Rosenalmbahn, and offers a great atmosphere with different types of apres-ski hits. You can dance, sing, and drink to the tunes of Dutch, German, and international music. The Saustadl Après Ski Bar is open from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and has a capacity of 600 people.
  • Krocha Alm: This is another popular spot for the apres-ski party in Zell am Ziller. It is located opposite the bottom station of the Zillertal Arena, and offers a great vibe with the best music. You can party, flirt, and have fun to the beats of house, electro, and pop music. The Krocha Alm is open from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and has a capacity of 400 people.
  • MTS Disco – Toni’s Skistadl: This is the place to go for the nightlife in Zell am Ziller. It is located in the village center of Zell am Ziller, and offers a variety of entertainment options. You can dance, drink, and mingle to the sounds of rock, pop, and dance music. The MTS Disco – Toni’s Skistadl is open from 9:00 pm to 4:00 am, and has a capacity of 300 people.

Relaxation and Wellness Services

Apres-ski in Zell am Ziller

Zell am Ziller has a range of relaxation and wellness services, where you can pamper yourself and recharge your energy. You can find spas, saunas, pools, massages, or beauty treatments. Some of the relaxation and wellness facilities in Zell am Ziller are:

  • Erlebnistherme Zillertal: This is a thermal spa, located in the neighboring village of Fügen. It offers a variety of water attractions, such as slides, wave pools, whirlpools, and outdoor pools. It also offers a wellness area, with saunas, steam baths, infrared cabins, and relaxation rooms. The Erlebnistherme Zillertal is open from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, and has a capacity of 1,500 people.
  • Freizeitpark Zell: This is a leisure park, located in the village center of Zell am Ziller. It offers a variety of sports and recreation facilities, such as tennis courts, ice skating rinks, bowling alleys, and mini golf courses. It also offers a wellness area, with saunas, solariums, and massage rooms. The Freizeitpark Zell is open from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, and has a capacity of 500 people.
  • Wellnesshotel Tirolerhof: This is a four-star hotel, located in the village center of Zell am Ziller. It offers a comfortable and elegant accommodation, with a choice of rooms, suites, and apartments. It also offers a wellness area, with an indoor pool, a sauna, a steam bath, and a fitness room. The Wellnesshotel Tirolerhof is open all year round, and has a capacity of 100 guests.
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