Why the Kitzbühel Alps are ideal for ski touring
The Kitzbühel Alps are often called the “grass mountains”: instead of rugged rock faces, gentle rounded peaks and wide alpine slopes shape the landscape. That is exactly what makes them so popular in winter with ski tourers and snowshoe hikers – especially beginners. Many summits are around 2,000 metres, the ascents are easy to pace and the descents lead over open terrain.
Three beginner tours in the region
Hartkaser (1,674 m) in the Windautal
With around 870 metres of ascent and 2.5 to 3 hours uphill, the Hartkaser is a classic, comparatively safe destination with manageable terrain. You reach the Windautal via Westendorf.
Schwarzkogel (2,030 m) from Aschau in the Spertental
Around 1,030 metres of ascent, about 3 hours uphill, easy to moderately demanding with a clearly structured route. Aschau lies in the Spertental behind Kirchberg.
Brechhorn (2,032 m) from Aschau
A real pleasure route with moderate gradients: around 1,080 metres of ascent and 2.5 to 3 hours uphill. At the top a wide view over the Kitzbühel Alps awaits.
The figures come from common touring portals. Conditions, snow and avalanche danger change daily – plan every tour with up-to-date information.
Snowshoeing – the gentle way in
Snowshoes can be used with almost no experience: if you can walk, you can snowshoe. A guided tour is ideal: the guides know the safe routes, often provide the equipment and tell you a lot about nature and wildlife in winter. Ask at the tourist office or a mountain school about current dates.
Safety first
- Always with you: avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe – and the knowledge of how to use them.
- Read the Tyrol avalanche bulletin at lawinen.report before every tour.
- Never go alone, tell someone your route and return time.
- Respect wildlife protection zones and forest-wildlife rest areas.
- To get started: go with a state-certified mountain and ski guide.
After the tour
A long touring day makes you hungry: in the morning we serve a good breakfast for energy – and in the afternoon the well-earned reward awaits at the Glühbirnstadl. To the Glühbirnstadl
