Ski Pitztal Glacier

Skiing on the roof of Austria.

Pitztal Glacier overview

The Pitztal Glacier is served by the resort of Mandarfen. The villages is a serene alpine outpost, the last stop in the Pitztal Valley in Tyrol, Austria. It is a picturesque winter retreat. Situated at the base of the Pitztal Glacier and beneath Tyrol’s highest peak, the Wildspitze (3,774 meters).

The village serves as a gateway to the Pitztal Glacier and Rifflsee ski areas. Beyond skiing, Mandarfen offers a range of winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, tobogganing, and ice climbing, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the valley’s natural beauty.

Pitztal Glacier skiing

The Pitztal Glacier offers high-altitude terrain and reliable snow conditions. As the country’s highest ski area, reaching elevations up to 3440m, it offers guaranteed snow from September through May, making it one of the most snow-sure resorts in Europe. The glacier features 40km of groomed pistes, predominantly wide and intermediate-level, which are also suitable for beginners due to their gentle gradients. 

For those seeking more adventure, the resort offers 30 kilometers of ski routes and ample off-piste opportunities, catering to freeriders and ski tourers alike.  The X Park adds to the diversity with features like a fun park, family cross, and speed check areas, appealing to freestyle enthusiasts. 

Access to the top of the glacier is via the Wildspitzbahn cable car, Austria’s highest lift, which transports visitors to the summit where they can enjoy panoramic views and visit the Café 3440, the country’s highest coffee house. 

Next to the glacier, the Rifflsee ski area complements the experience with additional varied terrain, and both areas are connected, allowing seamless exploration with a single ski pass.