Freeride paradise: Ischgl and Kappl

Last updated on 26.11.2019

The Paznaun region is just perfect for freeriders. From extreme terrain, to easy powder flow; in Ischgl and Kappl, powder addicts will find the right terrain to suit any conditions. And without any long ascents either – straight from the ski lift. In January 2020, Kappl is also set to be the venue for two super special freeride events.

With two destinations – Ischgl and Kappl – the Paznaun region is a real gold mine for freeriders who are looking for the best powder runs. Wide slopes, fun summits and troughs. Plenty of space. And there is plenty of snow too, thanks to an altitude level above 2000 metres and special geographic location. Good to know – even days after the last snowfall there are still pristine powder runs to be found, just a little way up.

Ischgl: Powder gem in the Paznaun
Freeriders and powder fans get to choose from a variety of descents and freeride tours in Ischgl. And all this really close to the ski lifts. The spectrum ranges from steep couloirs for experts to flat powder fields, for instance around the Piz Val Grondabahn, which even less experienced freeriders can tackle. Anyone who wants to play it safe, or experience a relaxing day on the best off-piste runs, ought to head out with an experienced guide from Ischgl ski school who has knowledge of the region. All information available at www.ischgl.com.

Kappl: Powder with the pros
Anyone who would like to have a go at the terrain which features in the international freeride event Open Faces and the Freeride Junior World Championship, will find the perfect playground in Kappl, and with easy access too. Almost all of the free ride runs start from the mountain stations of the Alblittkopf and Alblittbahn cable cars. The highlight are the slopes of the Quellspitze. It is there that this winter the OPEN FACES events will once again take place between 10th and 12th January 2020. Spectators get the best views of the runs and the riders from the public area on piste 8. Between 28th and 31st January, the Freeride Junior World Championships will also be held in Kappl, when the best 14 to 17 year-old riders will do battle for the World Championship title. And the Dutch will also be selecting their best athletes in Kappl, as part of the Dutch Freeride Championships between 7th and 13th March. Tip – the walk via the ridge and skiing on the Quellspitze slope should only be attempted when avalanche conditions are totally safe. Information about the current avalanche warning level, snow levels and temperature are available on an information board at the Diasbahn mountain station.

Events in Kappl at a glance:

10th – 12th January 2020 FREERIDE OPEN FACES CONTEST
3-Star Qualifier Freeride World Tour
2-Star Junior Freeride Contest

28th – 31st January 2020 FREERIDE JUNIOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

7th – 13th March 2020 DUTCH FREERIDE CHAMPIONSHIPS

More information available at: www.kappl.com and www.open-faces.com.