Lexi Webster
While Austria may not be the first place you think of for late-season skiing, there are several resorts that offer skiing well into the spring months. With guaranteed snow from early December to late April, Pitztal Glacier in Tirol is one such option. The Stubai Glacier ski area is another, with slopes that remain open through the summer, snow conditions permitting. For those looking to ski in April, Obergurgl is a non-glacier resort that is usually open until late April, and Ischgl offers skiing until early May.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Official end of winter | April 8 |
| Spring period | April to July |
| Late-closing non-glacier resorts | Obergurgl, Sölden, Lech, Obertauern |
| Resort height | Obergurgl: 2000m; Sölden: 3000m; Lech: NA; Obertauern: 1750m |
| Closing dates | Obergurgl: April 27; Sölden: April 28; Lech: April 22; Obertauern: May 1 |
| Concert dates | Sölden: April 4-5 (Electric Mountain Festival); Ischgl: May 3 (Top Of The Mountain Concert) |
| Ski areas open through summer | Stubai glacier ski area, Hintertux Glacier, Pitztal Glacier |
| Longest run | Pitztal Glacier: 41 km |
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What You'll Learn
Late-season skiing resorts
Late-season skiing in Austria in April is a great option for those looking to enjoy the slopes a little later in the year. While the official end of winter is April 8, the lift passes then move into a spring period that lasts from April into July. Here are some of the best late-season skiing resorts to consider:
Obergurgl
Obergurgl is a highly reliable non-glacial resort in the Alps, offering excellent snow cover at all levels until the end of the season. With a top height of over 3000m, you can expect good snow quality, especially in the high bowls above Hochgurgl. The resort usually stays open until late April, with one season lasting until April 27.
Sölden
Sölden is one of the main glacier resorts in Tyrol, providing the option of summer skiing later in the year. The resort typically transitions to spring season mode with a reduced ski area and tickets until early May.
Ischgl
Don't be fooled by Ischgl's modest resort height and lack of a glacier. You'll spend most of your day above the mid-stations, and Ischgl offers the greatest extent of skiing above 2000m in Austria. This means you can rely on excellent snow cover until closing time in early May. Ischgl also typically hosts a superstar act for its Top Of The Mountain Concert to round off the season.
Lech
Lech usually remains open until April 22, offering late-season skiing options.
Obertauern
Located in the province of Salzburg at an altitude of 1750m, Obertauern plans to stay open through to May 1.
Stubai Glacier
The Stubai glacier ski area operates year-round, carrying on through the summer on some of the highest slopes in the country, depending on snow conditions.
Kaprun
The glaciers above Kaprun stay open well into the spring, given good snow conditions.
Pitztal Glacier
Tirol's highest glacier, the Pitztal Glacier, offers guaranteed snow from early December to late April across 41km of groomed runs.
Dachstein Glacier
Accessible by an impressive cable car ride, the Dachstein Glacier provides active glacier enthusiasts with various adventures, including climbing, hiking, cross-country skiing, and ski touring.
Hintertux Glacier
The Hintertux Glacier offers over 60km of natural snow runs for all levels of difficulty, ranging from powder and spring snow slopes to challenging mogul runs.
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Spring skiing conditions
Spring skiing in Austria can be a great experience, with longer days, warmer temperatures, and softer snow. The spring skiing season in Austria usually starts in April and can last until early May or even July, depending on the resort and snow conditions. Some resorts close for the season in late April, while others remain open through the spring and even into the summer.
One of the key advantages of spring skiing is the warmer weather. The days are longer, and the sun shines brighter, making it more enjoyable to ski in a t-shirt or light jacket. The warmer temperatures also mean that the snow becomes softer, creating a different skiing experience from the crisp winter conditions. The snow quality in spring can vary, with some resorts receiving fresh snowfall, while others may have wetter and slushier conditions. However, with the right snow management techniques, resorts can maintain good ski conditions well into the spring.
Spring skiing in Austria offers a range of options, from high-altitude glacier resorts to lower-lying non-glacial areas. Obergurgl, located at an altitude of just under 2000 metres, is a popular choice for spring skiing. The resort usually stays open until late April and offers excellent snow conditions, even during poor snow years. Sölden, another well-known glacier resort in Tyrol, provides skiing opportunities until the end of April and sometimes even into May. Lech, with a planned closing date of April 22, and Ischgl, known for its early May closing and the Top Of The Mountain Concert, are also great options for spring skiing.
For those seeking a unique experience, the Stubai Glacier ski area is worth considering. With slopes located at some of the country's highest altitudes, this resort often remains open through the summer. The Pitztal Glacier in Tirol, guaranteed to have snow from early December to late April, offers 41 km of groomed runs and a panoramic view from the Wildspitzbahn cable car. The Hintertux Glacier is another excellent option, providing over 60 km of natural snow runs for all skill levels.
Spring skiing in Austria offers a mix of reliable snow conditions, longer days, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're visiting a glacier resort or a non-glacial area, there are plenty of options to enjoy the slopes during this time of year. However, it is always advisable to check the latest snow reports and resort information before planning your trip, as conditions can vary from year to year.
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Skiing with children
When it comes to skiing with children in Austria in April, there are a few key things to consider. The month offers the opportunity to enjoy the slopes with your family, taking advantage of the generally milder spring weather. Here are some tips to make the most of your family ski holiday:
Firstly, April is a great time to find quieter slopes and shorter queues. This is beneficial for families as it means less time waiting in line and more time skiing together. The days are also longer, which gives you more flexibility with your schedule. You can take breaks when needed without feeling rushed to fit everything in during daylight hours. The weather is usually milder, which is ideal for children who might feel the cold more acutely. Do keep an eye on the weather forecast though, as April can bring variable conditions, and be prepared for all weather eventualities.
Choosing the right resort is crucial. Some Austrian resorts are better suited to family skiing than others, offering dedicated beginner areas, ski schools with English-speaking instructors, and activities tailored for children. Look for resorts with a good selection of gentle, wide-open slopes that are ideal for beginners and intermediates. Some resorts offer special deals for families, including discounted lift passes and rental equipment for children. Check out places like Obergurgl, which is high-altitude and boasts a long season, ensuring good snow conditions in April. Alternatively, consider Sölden, which has a great ski school and plenty of family-friendly runs, or Zell am See, which offers a beautiful setting and a good balance of ski and non-ski activities.
It is important to prioritize comfort and convenience when skiing with children. Opt for accommodation that is close to the slopes or, even better, ski-in/ski-out, to minimize the hassle of getting to and from the slopes each day. Self-catering apartments can be a good option, offering the flexibility to prepare meals for fussy eaters, although some resorts do offer family-friendly restaurants with kids' menus. Make sure you pack appropriately, too, with plenty of layers to keep the kids warm, and don't forget sunscreen and lip balm for sun protection.
Finally, consider enrolling your children in ski school. This is a great way for them to learn or improve their skiing skills in a safe and fun environment. Ski schools in Austria often have excellent instructors who can cater to different ability levels. The social aspect of ski school also gives children the chance to make friends and have fun while learning. Many resorts offer kids' clubs or childcare facilities, too, giving parents some time to themselves to explore the mountain or simply relax.
April skiing in Austria with your family can be a wonderful experience, offering the chance to create lasting memories. With careful planning and consideration, you can ensure everyone has a fun and enjoyable holiday.
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Après-ski activities
Austria is renowned for its après-ski activities, with tourists flocking to the country specifically for its après-ski scene. The season usually lasts from the official end of winter in early April to July, when it transitions to summer mode and skiing is closed.
Après-ski in Austria involves lively parties, drinking, dining, and dancing after a day of skiing or snowboarding. The country's bars and clubs cater to this by booking artists that match the musical preferences of their audience, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere. Music and drinks are significant contributors to the experience. Popular drinks include hot beverages like mulled wine, hot chocolate with rum, and Schnapps, as well as beer, cocktails, and shots like Jägerbombs.
The dress code is also part of the unique atmosphere, with participants keeping their ski clothing, goggles, thick jackets, and pants on during the festivities.
There are several types of venues to enjoy après-ski in Austria:
- Ski huts or ski bars: These can be found in numerous ski resorts, including Obertauern, Schladming, and Kitzbühel & Kirchberg (KitzSki).
- Umbrella bars: These are located near the slopes and, in good weather, the 'umbrella' folds down so you can sit in the sun. They are found in ski resorts like Zillertal Arena, Ski Juwel, and Wildkogel Arena.
- Terraces: You can also experience après-ski on a terrace on the slopes, such as the sun terrace of the Sonnendeck in the Mountain Lodge.
- Clubs and discos: For those who want to dance the night away, there are clubs and discos in resorts like St. Anton, where Mooserwirt and Krazy Kanguruh are known for their wild parties.
- Upmarket resorts: For a more sophisticated experience, resorts like Lech offer fine dining and lighter, fruitier drinks. The Fux Bar is a sophisticated spot for wine, cigar, and jazz enthusiasts.
Best Resorts for Après-ski
- St. Anton: Known for its wild parties, St. Anton has two of the finest après-ski drinking spots, Mooserwirt and Krazy Kanguruh, located opposite each other.
- Lech: For a more upmarket experience, Lech offers fine dining and lighter, fruitier drinks. The Fux Bar is a sophisticated spot for wine, cigar, and jazz lovers.
- Soll: Soll is known for its wild nights at the Whisky-Muhle disco. It's also part of the 9 gondola-linked villages of the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser Brixental, offering a drinking pilgrimage.
- Zell: In Zell, music wafts from bar to bar in the afternoon, bringing you closer to the locals and their lifestyle. Start your afternoon at the Sportstuberl, a Keller-style tavern with bartenders in lederhosen.
- Ischgl: Ischgl is a well-known party hotspot that hosts the legendary Opening Week Festival with headlining acts like Mariah Carey.
- Obergurgl: This resort is known for its reliable spring skiing conditions and lively atmosphere.
- Sölden: Sölden is a glacier resort that offers summer skiing and a livelier atmosphere than its neighbour Obergurgl. It hosts the two-day Electric Mountain Festival in early April.
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Lift passes and seasons
The best way to save money on lift passes is to purchase them in advance. Many resorts offer special deals on their websites, including discounts on lift tickets, lodging, and retail. It is also worth considering early bird lift tickets for the best prices during the peak ski season. Late-season lift tickets are also usually cheaper, and you can often find good snow conditions in April at higher-altitude resorts.
The official end of the winter season in Austria is April 8, after which the lift passes move into a spring period lasting from April to July. Some resorts, such as the Stubai glacier ski area, remain open through the summer, depending on snow conditions.
Obergurgl, a non-glacier resort, is usually open until late April. The Sölden glacier resort in Tyrol offers summer skiing and is typically open until May 4. The ski area in Obertauern, located at an altitude of 1750m, plans to stay open until May 1. The Kitzsteinhorn glacier resort, located at 3,000m, is also an option for skiing in April.
The Pitztal Glacier in Tyrol is the highest glacier in the region, offering guaranteed snow from early December to late April across 41km of groomed runs. The Mölltal Glacier in Carinthia is another option, with guaranteed snow up to 3,122m and impeccably groomed pistes.
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Frequently asked questions
Skiing in Austria in April is considered late-season skiing. While the official end of winter is April 8, ski resorts offer spring skiing from April to July.
Some ski resorts that are known for late-season skiing in Austria include Obergurgl, Sölden, Lech, Ischgl, Obertauern, and Kaprun.
Snow conditions in April can vary depending on the resort and the specific year. For example, in late April 2007, Obergurgl experienced one of the poorest snow years in the Alps, but they still had skiable conditions.
Yes, there are several glacier ski areas in Austria that offer late-season skiing, including the Stubai Glacier, Pitztal Glacier, Dachstein Glacier, and Hintertux Glacier. These areas often have snow conditions that last into the spring or even summer.
Yes, some resorts offer family-friendly options, such as the kids' slope in the beginner area at Sommerbergalm, which has snow tunnels, steep turns, and wave tracks. The Nature Ice Palace is also a fascinating natural spectacle with huge icicles and bizarre ice formations.
