© Stefan Leitner © Stefan Leitner

Ski touring

The Gesäuse has a lot to offer. And some things it doesn't. Above all, no lifts. That means, especially in winter: If you want to go up, you need your very own drive. No gondola, no chairlift - the only way to reach the summits, even in winter, is by muscle power. No pain, no gain. Or also: The Schnapserl must be earned.

When it comes to ski touring in the Gesäuse, the mountaineering village of Johnsbach comes into play right away, as it is considered a ski touring El Dorado thanks to its good snow and mountain location. That's why the Kölblwirt had the idea of setting up a real touring ski test center (with equipment to try out). So Johnsbach: a popular starting point for winter mountain tours! By the way, due to its great popularity, a trip during the week or outside the vacation season is a hot tip!

Another special feature in the Gesäuse are the selected National Park ski tours, which feature winter markings that are always visible, ensuring that you don't snatch the wildlife from their well-deserved winter rest and that you don't get lost yourself. Also special is the quality of the descents in the Gesäuse and the view into a nature full of small and large winter wonders. 

Ski tour in the Gesäuse National Park I Styria | © Stefan Leitner |
Ski tour in the Gesäuse National Park I Styria | © Stefan Leitner |

In winter nature

A mountain tour in winter is a completely different story than in the hot summer. At the cold time of year, green turns to white and lively to quiet and gentle. It is the time when the experts venture all alone into the Gesäuseberge and the Haller Mauern, and when beginners call the friendly mountain guide or book a ski touring BaseCamp to find out and learn everything about ski touring. The only question that remains is: Which tour do I do next?

Highlights

Our mountains are more than their legendary peaks. They are a daily lived whole of Gesäuse nature and Gesäuse man. We have summarized our absolute highlights around the topic of ski touring for you here. What is missing in this work of art is you.

Rottenmanner Tauern Range

This hidden gem may not be familiar to traditional Gesäuse ski tourers, yet it holds a special place in the hearts of insiders. Oppenberg and Rottenmanner Tauern Range offer unrivaled powder and fantastic ski touring conditions. When you reach the peak, you will find a variety of easy to moderate touring options with varying steepness of the terrain. But mind: this place is highly addictive.

 

Skitour Basecamp_c-Max Mauthner_TVGesaeuse_34 |
Ski tour in the Gesäuse Mountains I Styria

Nationalpark 

The alpine village of Johnsbach in the Gesäuse is known as one of the best ski touring spots with excellent snow conditions and a prime location. The standout features are the National Park ski tours tha come with guiding trail marking throughout. This also guarantees a peacefully rest for wildlife during the wintertime - and an extra benefit: you won´t get lost. Also exceptional is the quality of the runs and the jaw-dropping scenery.

 

Ski tour in the Gesäuse Mountains I Styria

Salzatal Valley

Have you thought about exploring Salzatal and Wildalpen for your ski touring adventures? The north side of Hochschwab massif and the surrounding mountains are known for their reliable snow and their stunning views, making them a pretty well-kept winter sports secret: solitude in the midst of the stunning white setting of the Gesäuse.

 

SKitour Hochtürnach | © Ch.Sch. | Ch.Sch.

Skitouring

At a glance, with all the details

 

More info
Redbull-Winterkampagne2023_c-Susanne_Einzenberger_TVG_4 | © Supersusi | Susanne Einzenberger

All mountain guides

At a glance, with all the details

 

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Good to know

Before you and the Gesäuse really get going, we have compiled the most important tips and information for you on the subject of ski touring. If you still have questions, just contact our team - we will be happy to help you personally.