Slope closure for ski tourers

Ski touring is strictly prohibited on all our ski slopes. This ban applies at all times, both during the day and at night.

This ban is necessary in order to:

  • ensure the safety of our skiing guests on the slopes,
  • protect our skiing guests from unusual hazards caused by ski tourers,
  • protect our employees working on the ski slopes outside regular operating hours, and
  • protect ski tourers from the dangers associated with snowmaking and slope-grooming operations at night. These activities pose a risk to life.

Contrary to a common misconception, there is no general right for ski tourers to use ski slopes.

The right of public access under the Austrian Forestry Act does not apply to ski slopes located in forest areas.

Groomed ski slopes are not considered untouched alpine wasteland. This is also the position of the Austrian Alpine Club, as stated in its magazine “Bergauf”, issue 05/2011. Therefore, the regulations governing public access to mountainous areas do not apply either.

Experience has shown that ski tourers ascending ski slopes can create considerable hazards, particularly on narrow sections, at blind or poorly visible points, and during periods of heavy skier traffic. As the operator responsible for the slopes, we are therefore obliged to prohibit ski tourers from using them in order to protect our skiing guests. As holders of easement rights and/or landowners, we are also legally entitled to impose this restriction.

Please note that the ban on ski tourers using our slopes must be observed. Anyone who violates this ban may be subject to legal or administrative action, including:

  • legal proceedings for interference with possession and/or injunctive relief,
  • criminal prosecution in the event of an accident, particularly in cases involving bodily injury, and
  • penalties under the Salzburg State Security Act, including fines of up to EUR 500.00. If the fine cannot be collected, a substitute custodial sentence of up to one week may be imposed.

For the reasons outlined above, we ask you to observe the ski touring ban on our ski slopes for your own safety and for the safety of our skiing guests.

The only exceptions to the general ski touring ban are areas that are expressly designated, marked and signposted for ski tourers. These areas may only be used during the operating times stated on the relevant signs.