Winter Wonder: Snowfall In Austria

Austria is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with its stunning mountain ranges, hills, and plains. The country experiences a temperate climate, with colder winters and hotter summers in the lowland regions in the north and east, and milder winters and warmer summers in the western part of the country. The diverse climatic conditions result in a versatile flora and fauna, and the Alpine climate in the mountainous regions causes colder winters than at lower altitudes. The snow season in Austria typically lasts from late December to March in the valleys and from November to May at higher altitudes. The coldest month is usually January, and the winter snow cover can last until mid-March. Austria offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, and winter walking, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a winter getaway.

Snowfall in the Austrian Alps

Austria's geographic features, particularly its mountain ranges, give rise to the Alpine climate in the country's more mountainous regions. The weather in these regions can change quickly and dramatically, and temperatures depend largely on altitude, with averages 5°C lower for each additional 300 m of elevation. The winter snow cover in the valleys of the Austrian Alps usually lasts from late December through March, and from November through May at about 1,800 m. In many years, the snow becomes permanent above 2,500 m.

Austria's annual average snowfall total is 201 cm. The best snow conditions in the country usually arrive with weather systems tracking in from the north and northwest, but snow can arrive from any direction, providing reliable snow cover at most of the higher-altitude resorts. The Austrian Alps are home to more than 600 ski resorts of all sizes. Some of the most consistent good piste conditions have been reported at Kaprun, Zurs, Obergurgl, St Anton, Hintertux, Neustift, Lech, and Pitztal.

The Austrian Alps experience snowfall even in summer. From June through August, rain usually comes in the form of sometimes heavy thunderstorms, which can bring heavy hail and snowfall to the mountainous regions of the Alps.

The coldest month in Austria is usually January, with an average low of 27°F and a high of 37°F in Vienna. The winter season in the country lasts for 3.5 months, from mid-November to early March, with an average daily high temperature below 45°F.

Austria is one of the world's six leading ski nations and has played a crucial role in the development of downhill skiing over the past century.

Snowshoeing in Austria

Snowshoeing is a unique way to experience Austria's stunning winter scenery. It allows you to venture off the beaten path and explore areas that would otherwise be inaccessible on foot. With snowshoes, you can walk across loosely packed or deep snow without sinking, making it possible to discover secluded spots and untouched corners of the country.

Where to Go Snowshoeing in Austria:

Austria offers a variety of destinations for snowshoeing, each with its own unique charm:

• East Tyrol: This region is known for its mountainous landscape and tranquil beauty. It is home to the Hohe Tauern National Park, where you can spot Austria's "Big Five": ibex, chamois, snow grouse, golden eagle, and bearded vulture. The park also boasts the country's tallest peak, the Großglockner.
• Lech-Zürs: Lech-Zürs offers snowshoeing opportunities in a picturesque setting. You can explore snowy slopes, mountains, and peaks, either on your own or with a local guide.
• Lower Austria: In Lower Austria, you'll find ideal snowshoeing conditions in the Rax plateau, Wechsel, Schneeberg, Semmering, and Hohe Wand. The Mostviertel region is also popular for snowshoeing, offering guided tours such as full moon and night hikes.
• Upper Austria: In the Kalkalpen National Park, you can find guided snowshoe walks to self-catering huts with overnight stays. The Böhmerwald region provides 40 km of winter hiking trails and guided snowshoe hikes.
• Rauris Valley: The Rauris Valley offers guided snowshoe hikes and dreamlike winter hikes in the Lungau region. Zell am See-Kaprun, Saalfelden-Leogang, and Hochkönig are also popular destinations nearby.
• Murau Region: Snowshoeing in the Murau region allows you to experience the tranquility of the Low Tauern Mountains, the Totes Gebirge, the Gesäuse, the Seetal Alps, and the Fischbach Alps. The Schladming-Dachstein region is also a great choice for pristine nature.
• St. Johann in Tirol: Explore the varied snowy landscape of Tirol, including untouched areas in the Wildschönau region, the Zillertal valley, the Karwendel region, Seefeld, and the Kitzbühel Alps. You can join guided hikes or create your own paths.
• Bregenzerwald: The Bregenzerwald region offers guided snowshoe hikes and weekly hikes in the Kleinwalser valley. The Brandnertal valley, Bludenz, and Klostertal valley provide numerous signposted hiking and snowshoeing trails, along with guided tours.

When to Go Snowshoeing in Austria:

The best time for snowshoeing in Austria is during the winter season, typically from December to April. January is usually the coldest month, and the snow cover lasts from late December through March in the valleys and from November through May at higher altitudes. Keep in mind that weather conditions can vary across the country, with colder winters in the lowland regions of the north and east.

What to Pack and Consider:

Snowshoeing requires proper equipment and clothing. Here are some essential items to consider:

• Snowshoes: Choose snowshoes that are suitable for the type of terrain you'll be traversing. Larger snowshoes are ideal for deep snow, while smaller ones are better for steep terrain.
• Sturdy boots: Wear sturdy climbing or mountaineering boots with treaded soles to provide support and grip during your snowshoe hike.
• Poles: Telescopic, length-adjustable poles with large baskets are recommended for balance and stability.
• Accessories: Don't forget to pack essential accessories like a high UV protection sunscreen, a non-breakable thermos, and a first-aid kit. For alpine terrain, also consider an avalanche shovel, probe, transceiver, and bivouac sack.
• Clothing: Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable during your snowshoe hike. Pack lightweight and waterproof clothing, including a sweater, as the temperatures can be cold.

Skiing in Austria

Austria is a popular destination for skiers, with its snow-capped peaks, legendary après-ski, and Austrian hospitality. The country's winter sports regions offer 22,000 km of pistes, with options for beginners and advanced skiers.

When to Go Skiing in Austria

Austria's coldest month is usually January, and the winter snow cover lasts from late December through March in the valleys, from November through May at about 5,905 ft or 1,800 m, and for many years is permanent above about 8,202 ft or 2,500 m. So, if you're looking to ski, it's best to visit from January to March.

Where to Go Skiing in Austria

Austria has numerous ski resorts, with options for all preferences. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Kitzbühel, Tirol: This resort is steeped in tradition and known for its hospitality. It offers 233 km of pistes and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
• Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, SalzburgerLand and Tirol: This ski area stretches from Tirol to SalzburgerLand and is one of the biggest in the world. It offers 270 km of pistes, 71 modern lifts, and 60 chalets, bars, and pubs.
• St. Johann in Tirol: An exceptionally family-friendly ski region with 40 km of slopes and outstanding conditions for all skill levels.
• Innsbruck: The "capital of the Alps" offers a combination of city life and skiing. The Ski Plus City Pass gives you access to 13 ski areas and 22 city attractions.
• Sölden / Ötztal, Tirol: One of the most renowned ski destinations in the Alps, with skiing starting at 1,400 m above sea level and going up to 3,249 m. It is also Austria's only ski area with three peaks higher than 3,000 m.
• SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, Tirol: One of the largest and most modern ecological ski resorts in Austria, with 270 km of groomed slopes and 20 descents. It has been powered by 100% green electricity for over 20 years.
• Zell am See-Kaprun, SalzburgerLand: A gorgeous lakeside town with snow-sure skiing on the 3,030-metre-high slopes of Kaprun's Kitzsteinhorn Glacier. It offers 11 ski schools and chic shops.
• St. Anton: One of the world's great ski resorts, with some of the most challenging slopes in the Alps. It has a car-free centre and a bustling atmosphere.

What Else to Do in Austria in Winter

Besides skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other exciting experiences to enjoy in Austria during winter:

• Snowshoe hikes through untouched winter landscapes and snow-covered forests.
• Toboggan runs for both children and adults.
• Cross-country skiing tours through quiet valleys and open fields.
• Ice skating on frozen lakes or in town ice rinks.
• Exploring mountain huts and enjoying Austrian cuisine.
• Torchlit hikes and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

Austria's coldest month

The winter snow cover in the valleys lasts from late December through March, and from November through May at about 5,905 ft or 1,800 m. In many years, snow becomes permanent above 8,202 ft or 2,500 m. Temperatures begin to rise again in February, and in March, they may rise up to 54°F (12°C).

Austria's diverse topographical and climatic conditions result in varied weather patterns. The western part of the country is influenced by the temperate Atlantic climate, resulting in milder winters and warmer summers. The southeastern areas of Austria have longer and warmer summers, almost Mediterranean-like. The mountainous regions exhibit an Alpine climate, with colder winters than lower altitudes.

The best time to visit Austria for winter activities is from January to mid-March, as snow is more likely to be natural rather than artificial during this period. February, the second coldest month, sees a slight improvement in temperatures, though they can still fall below -10°C (14°F) in the Alpine regions.

Austria's Alpine climate

The winter snow season in the Austrian Alps typically lasts from December to April, with snow often falling from December and being more reliably present from January to mid-March. During this period, various winter activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking are popular among locals and tourists. The snow cover in the valleys usually lasts from late December through March, while at higher altitudes of around 1,800 meters, it can last from November to May.

The Austrian Alps experience significant snowfall, particularly in the western regions such as the Arlberg area. The eastern and south-eastern parts of the country generally receive less snowfall. The influence of the temperate Atlantic climate is stronger in the western part of Austria, resulting in milder winters and warmer summers. This region is also characterised by high precipitation, with annual rainfall exceeding 2000 mm in high-level areas of the Alps, compared to 600 mm in some flatlands.

During the summer months, the Austrian Alps can still offer snow experiences at certain glaciers, such as the Dachstein Glacier or the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier. However, the focus shifts more towards hiking and exploring the unique summer scenery of the region. The summer months can be quite rainy, with thunderstorms bringing heavy rain and even hail to the mountainous regions. Despite the rain, summer evenings are usually cool and pleasant.

The coldest month in Austria is typically January, with temperatures gradually rising again in February and March. Summers can be hot, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 30 degrees Celsius in July. Overall, Austria's Alpine climate offers a diverse range of weather conditions and outdoor activities throughout the year.

Frequently asked questions