Freeriding in Kappl & See
The best freeride spots in Kappl & See
Fresh snow in the Tyrolean Paznaun valley means: It’s time to go freeriding! In Kappl & See, the season stretches from the first substantial snowfalls of winter well into spring.
What makes freeriding in Kappl so appealing: It is not one of the giants of the freeride scene, which means plenty of space, short approaches and powder slopes that often stay untracked for longer than elsewhere. There is a reason freeriders have nicknamed the ski area “Kapplaska”.
Freeriding in See offers plenty of variety for different ability levels too. Around Rotpleiskopf, beginners will find open terrain with good visibility and marked ski routes, while Medrigkopf and Istalanz step things up a level. Around Gratli and Zeinis, gullies, rocks, woodland sections and pillow lines create technically demanding terrain for highly experienced freeriders.
Tip: If you are new to the area, it is best to explore the terrain for the first time with a local guide.
Freeriding in Kappl & See at a glance
- Season: from the first snowfalls until well into spring
- Kappl: short approaches, plenty of space and lines for all levels
- See: direct lift access, varied freeride terrain and a wide choice of lines
- For beginners: Stay close to the slopes or choose marked ski routes, ideally with a guide!
- Essential equipment: avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe
- Also recommended: avalanche airbag backpack
- Highlights: international freeride events in Kappl & See
Freeriding in Kappl
Where the slopes end, the powder begins: Kappl combines short approaches with lines for a range of ability levels. From newcomers to experienced freeriders, there is plenty of powder to enjoy in the Paznaun valley.
- Hausberg: This beginner-friendly line starts at Alblitt mountain station (2,290 m) and covers around 350 metres of descent, with a maximum gradient of 35°.
- Alblittkopf: This Kappl freeride classic comes with excellent views. It starts at the highest point in the ski area (2,640 m). The line covers around 400 metres of descent, with gradients mostly between 30 and 35° and short sections of up to 40°. It is a top choice for experienced freeriders.
- Rauchbach: Wide-open terrain with plenty of room for long turns, around 500 metres of descent and gradients of up to 35°. This line is rated medium in difficulty.
Freeriding in See
A variety of freeride terrain for all levels awaits around the lake. Particularly handy: the areas are directly accessible via the mountain cable cars – no long ascents are required.
- Rotpleiskopf: Clearly signposted ski routes around the Versingbahn, ideal for beginners and first guided tours.
- Medrigkopf & Istalanz: More challenging descents, including the Steinbock route and attractive firn descents in spring. Caution: Drift snow and snow drifts – be aware of avalanche conditions!
- Gratli & Zeinis: Rocks, gullies, forest sections and pillow lines for experienced freeriders and technically demanding runs.
Heading off-piste
Only head off-piste with a complete set of safety equipment: an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe are essential, and an avalanche airbag backpack is also strongly recommended. Before setting off, the freeride checkpoint at Diasbahn cable car in Kappl provides information on the current avalanche danger level, snow depth and temperature. Right next to it, you can check your avalanche transceiver at the transceiver checkpoint.
Freeriding is a team activity: Everyone in the group should remain within sight and calling distance, and routes and stopping points are best agreed in advance. On exposed slopes or challenging sections, riders should descend one at a time rather than together. This makes it easier to keep track of the group and respond quickly in an emergency.
Every second counts in an avalanche: Call the emergency services (140 for mountain rescue or 112 for the European emergency number), begin companion rescue using the avalanche transceiver and always keep your own safety in mind. It is therefore worth practising with your transceiver before your first freeride descent, for example at the transceiver checkpoint by Diasbahn cable car.
Anyone unfamiliar with the terrain or heading beyond the marked slopes for the first time should go with an experienced ski guide. Local guides know the region inside out, can judge the conditions on the day and choose routes that suit the weather, snow and the group’s ability. This makes freeriding safer, more relaxed and often even more enjoyable.
Frequently asked questions about freeriding in Kappl & See
In Kappl, Hausberg, Alblittkopf and Rauchbach offer three designated freeride lines for different ability levels. In See, the marked routes around Rotpleiskopf are particularly suitable for newcomers to freeriding, while Medrigkopf offers more demanding terrain for advanced riders. Highly experienced freeriders will find particularly challenging lines around Gratli.
Yes. Local ski guides and ski schools offer guided freeride tours around the Kappl & See ski area. Courses for other off-piste activities are also available to book.
Freeriding takes place in open, unsecured terrain away from the marked slopes, so complete safety equipment and careful risk assessment are essential. The freeride checkpoint at Diasbahn cable car in Kappl provides information on current avalanche conditions, while bookable ski guides can help with risk assessment and route choice.
