Freerider’s Paradise in the Gastein Valley
The Gastein Valley in Salzburg is one of Austria’s largest ski areas. Beginners and advanced skiers will find suitable runs among its varied slopes. Around 200 km of pistes await visitors—about 60 km easy, 117 km intermediate and 24 km difficult. Everyone can find a favorite run in one of the five ski areas: Graukogel, the Dorfgastein-Großarltal ski circuit, Sportgastein, Schlossalm and Stubnerkogel.
The Graukogel ski area, at an altitude of around 1,000–2,000 m, offers plenty of challenges for skilled skiers. The runs are demanding and long. Its forested location provides shelter from the wind and helps with orientation, even in poor weather. The Graukogel ski area is not particularly crowded, making it a hidden gem during the holidays. It also offers many opportunities for off-piste skiing.
Freerider’s Paradise in the Gastein Valley
Date: 30/09/2026
The Gastein Valley is also an ideal freeriding area. Legendary Sportgastein, at the far end of the valley, is a freerider’s paradise. Its altitude of almost 2,700 m ensures top snow conditions. Freeriders love Sportgastein’s powder snow and its truly vast, open backcountry.
The atmosphere in the ski huts is especially rustic in Dorfgastein. A special attraction is planned for the coming ski season. In winter 2008/2009, an “Alpine hut evening with live music” is due to be held at a Dorfgastein ski hut.
The Dorfgastein-Großarltal ski circuit is the first in the Gastein Valley. This family-friendly ski area offers varied slopes for skiers of every ability. It also features state-of-the-art technology and comfortable lifts and cable cars.
The ski circuit crosses Fulseck on its way to Gorßarltal. Fulseck offers breathtaking panoramic views from the Dachstein to the Großglockner. The Großarltal—the Valley of Alpine Pastures—offers plenty of relaxation, peace and quiet. You can really feel that it has been spared through traffic. This welcoming valley is also ideal for a family ski holiday.
