Winter in the Ybbstal Alps has far more to offer than just perfectly groomed ski slopes. Snow-covered forests, tranquil valleys and glistening winter landscapes provide the perfect setting for enjoyable and varied experiences.
Whether on a leisurely winter walk, a thrilling toboggan run or a cross-country ski tour through the tranquil countryside – away from the slopes, the mountains reveal the many facets of winter.
Short, easy walks and longer routes offer ideal opportunities for quick breaks and extended winter hikes. Snow-covered forests, sweeping views and the special tranquillity of the cold season accompany you every step of the way.
With snowshoes on, the trails lead deeper into the snow-covered winter landscape. Mysterious forests, open meadows and pristine snowfields make every tour a special experience of nature.
Signposted snowshoe trails around Lackenhof am Ötscher and on the Hochkar offer varied tours through the tranquil mountain world.
Whether classic or skating style: the cross-country trails in the Ybbstal Alps wind through tranquil winter landscapes and lead to spots with stunning views. A large cross-country skiing centre in Lackenhof, with a network of around 29 kilometres of trails, is complemented by smaller cross-country skiing areas in Lunz am See, Göstling an der Ybbs, Ybbsitz and on the Hochkar.
When there is sufficient snow, a variety of routes await, ranging from leisurely loops to challenging runs. Equipment hire is also available in Lackenhof, on the Hochkar and in Prolling near Ybbsitz.
accompanied by crisp winter air and breathtaking views: downhill skiing and ski touring combine physical exercise with the special feeling of conquering the mountain under your own steam.
The Ybbstal Alps offer a selection of options and signposted routes for this. Different regulations apply depending on the area.
Checking the latest information and conditions is therefore an essential part of good tour planning and ensures a relaxed start to your winter mountain adventure.
Sledging brings some action to a winter’s day. In Lackenhof, there are two groomed sledging slopes available: the Teichwiese in the village centre and the Ötscherwiese near the cross-country skiing training centre. Disc sledges, cone sledges and toboggans can be hired directly in Lackenhof.
In Göstling an der Ybbs, the Ziegenalm toboggan run – around one kilometre long – ensures a thrilling descent. Another tobogganing slope is situated at Maiszinken in Lunz am See.
Operations depend on snow conditions and, in some cases, on the running of the ski lifts.
When freezing temperatures persist, LakeLunz transforms into an impressive natural ice rink. However, there is no official
authorisation to skate on the lake; you enter at your own risk. It is therefore essential to take the current ice and weather conditions into account.
The ice rink in Waidhofen an der Ybbs offers a more weather-independent option. An artificial ice rink, music, a buffet, skating aids and ice skate hire ensure a varied and enjoyable time on the ice.
