Behind the lift the fun starts: Freeriding insider tip Ischgl
Last updated on 03.12.2020
From extreme terrain to easy Powder-Flow – in Ischgl freeriders in search of a pristine powder make a find no less than 22 times, completely without climbing. Snow thanks to optimal altitude included.
In Ischgl, freeriders don’t need to go on long hikes or strenuous climbs to get to pristine terrain. Of 38 varied powder runs, no less than 22 can be reached completely without climbing. Getting off the lift and taking a single turn is usually enough here to enjoy swinging down the powder snow untroubled, away from the groomed pistes. What makes up Ischgl as a Freeride-Destination? Wide slopes. Playful crests and hollows. Plenty of space. And thanks to an altitude of over 2,000 m and the special geographical location, enough fresh snow. A further plus: Even days after the last snowfall, pristine draws and downhill runs can be found here, accessible directly from the ski area. Be it off-piste runs or freeride tours – from steep couloirs for experts all the way to flat powder fields for less experienced freeriders, here all can be found. Those who want to play it safe, discover secret local gems or experience the best off-piste runs in all snow conditions, grab a local guide from the Ischgl ski school. Where beginners and pros can leave their finest powder lines in the snow without climbing?
Five powder runs without climb for every level
Easy: Panoramic powder-skiing on “Nederberg” Piz Val Gronda
A possible entry point to the Ischgl backcountry is provided by the Piz Val Grondabahn, which takes winter sports fans up to 2,812 metres. There, untouched powder snow runs across wide slopes and playful crests open up directly from the upper terminus all the way into Fimba as well as across almost 900 m elevation drop to the Gampenalp. The easy “Nederberg” downhill run with some 750 m elevation drop starts right at the upper terminus of the Piz Val Grondabahn and takes freeriders across wide slopes down into Fimba. Here, suddenly right in the heart of backcountry without climbing and the peaceful nature can be enjoyed. The way back to the ski area leads along the ski route of Heidelberger Hut. Panoramic views across all of Fimba included.
Medium: Across wide freeriding slopes through the “Lange Wand”
Starting at Greitspitze or upper terminus of Lange Wandbahn, the “Lange Wand“ route greets freeriders with a playful powder field in gently broken terrain across 720 m elevation drop. On the extensive north-west facing slope, rated as medium-difficult, there is never a shortage of opportunities for finding own lines through pristine terrain.
Medium: A visit to Gamsgarten
A beautiful powder downhill run through varied terrain can be found at “Gamsgarten”. Starting at Palinkopf, the medium-difficult route leads down 880 m elevation drop into Fimba. The north to north-westerly exposed slopes guarantee fresh lines in pristine powder, even days after the last snowfall.
Medium: Under observation on the “Höllkar Seite”
Getting to the steep and very sweeping face of this medium-difficult downhill run (approx. 300 mda) with an average of 28 degrees drop, doesn’t take much effort. The fun starts right at the first turn of Piste No. 32. From the more or less exposed ridge, the entire edge can be seen, letting everyone choose their optimal line. But beware: Winter sports fans riding on the Höllkarbahn chairlift can watch every move up close.
Difficult: “Velillrinnen“ for steady nerves
The difficult “Velillrinnen” can be reached without climbing directly from Piste No. 4. The downhill distance varies between 250 and 400 m elevation drop. Careful: These runs are not for beginners or the faint-hearted! Good freeriders, however, will find endless fun here in up to 40 degrees steep terrain.
Further information on www.ischgl.com/en.