430 kilometers of lightness on two narrow skis

Cross-country skiing at the foot of the Dachstein

With 220 kilometers of trails in total, Ramsau am Dachstein promises perfect XCing experiences for casual skiers as well as top-flight athletes. 125 kilometers are intended for classic cross-country skiing, 95 km for skating technique – with the trails freshly maintained daily. The towering Dachstein massif dominates the landscape magnificently. Most of the trails afford glorious views of the mighty south face of this, the highest mountain in Styria. Though you only rise above it all, quite literally, when you finally stand atop the Dachstein glacier. Here, at 2700 meters above sea level, not only will you discover the highest cross-country trail in the region, but also the longest glacier trail in the entire world.

New in winter 2022/23: alpine trail “Rittisberg 1500” on the Rittisberg

Construction of the new Rittisberg combination lift will also result in expansion of the cross-country skiing opportunities in Ramsau am Dachstein. As of this coming winter, the alpine trail, known as the “Höhenloipe”, will be accessible using the new combo lift. A 5.5 km loop, it links the area between the mountain terminal and the summit cross. The trail has been intentionally designed to treat skiers to views of the Dachstein massif, the Ramsau plateau and the peaks of the Schladminger Tauern along the way. Meanwhile, an additional track is being created right next to it specifically for winter hikers and snowshoers. The XC trail/winter hiking track can be used to reach mountain huts on the Rittisberg:

The Sonnenalm, Halseralm and Rösteralm greet guests with a selection of regional delicacies and a warm fire in the hearth.

Trending: Guest Biathlon

For those who have never stood on cross-country skis before or experienced the joys of gliding smoothly across the glistening snow, Schladming-Dachstein is most definitely the place to be. To get your personal XCing happiness off to a wonderful start, five cross-country schools offer perfectly tailored instruction. Courses that are not restricted to cross-country newbies. “Pros” also receive valuable tips for finetuning their technique. For added World Cup flavor, we most definitely suggest the Guest Biathlon, one of the absolute hottest trends in the region. In the biathlon stadium located in Ramsau am Dachstein, you have a great opportunity to try this fascinating sport for yourself. Under the watchful eyes of experienced coaches, you can put your marksmanship to the test as you learn correct breathing and shooting techniques.

Attractive “valley trails”

In addition to Ramsau am Dachstein, there is much for cross-country fans to discover in the region’s other communities as well. The “valley trails”, which range in difficulty from laid-back tours to exciting challenges for ambitious skiers, add the perfect finishing touches to the XCing opportunities in Schladming-Dachstein. The Kristallloipe in Untertal is particularly impressive, leading you alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Untertalbach. Whenever the weather conditions in the depths of winter cooperate, ice crystals also form there that are many centimeters across. For its part, the Spechtensee Loipe is very idyllic, taking you around a remote moorland lake close to Wörschachwald. If you are looking for a restful, recuperative experience during your cross-country expeditions, the trails in Donnersbachwald will definitely be “just what the doctor ordered”.

Trail Kilometers Ramsau am Dachstein / Schladming-Dachstein Region

In total: 220km / up to 430 km

Classic: 125 km / 255 km

Skating: 95 km / 165 km