This year we go back to Krippenstein for a 3 day “free-riders’ paradise” trip. After all we want to give people time to explore this fantastic Austrian resort of the Dachstein region southwest of Salzburg. At first sight the piste map does not look that impressive with only 3 cable cars, and a couple of runs are marked, but that is exactly what makes it so desirable. Huge, wild, untouched terrain – just what we are looking for!

From the top of Krippenstein (2100 m), you can expect an 11 km-long run down for 1500 m of vertical, and 30 km of alternative off-piste routes... hence the long weekend. The terrain is demanding and you will probably feel every single muscle in your body, that’s the price to pay, don’t worry you can always jump in the sauna to relax your tired legs after an adventurous day.

Of course the non-freeriders are welcome too. The bus will take them to the nearby ski resort of Dachstein-West which covers an extensive area for beginners and intermediate skiers, with some 36 lifts and numerous blue, red (and black) runs over Gosau-Russbach-Zwieselalm, and even the opportunity to freeride between the pistes.

As in previous years, we will have 1 day with local guides in Krippenstein for expert freeriders as well as those looking for an introduction to off-piste skiing, or 1 day with instructors for those heading to Dachstein-West.

Our accommodation is again in the valley at the BSFZ (Bundessport- und Freizeitzentrum) in Obertauern, which includes a sauna and a bar, also has a screen to watch pictures and movies from the day.  

Hopefully the table football will be working – I’m sure there’s an open match to be finished – just to give your arms a bit of a workout, the winner usually receive beers!