Visiting Austria's Hintertux Glacier: A Year-Round Paradise for Skiing and Hiking

Imagine skiing on pristine snow in the middle of summer or hiking across vibrant alpine meadows right next to ancient, glistening ice. The Hintertux Glacier is a stunning natural wonder and Austria’s only year-round ski resort, offering adventures 365 days a year. This unique destination captivates both winter sports enthusiasts and summer hikers with its breathtaking, high-altitude landscape.

Reaching heights of 3,250 meters, the glacier provides perfectly groomed, snow-sure runs throughout the year, making it a training ground for international ski teams. In winter, it connects with other resorts to form the vast Ski & Glacier World Zillertal 3000.

During summer, while skiers enjoy the upper slopes, the surrounding area transforms into a green paradise with 350 km of marked hiking trails that weave through picturesque meadows and offer stunning panoramic views. Beyond the slopes and trails, visitors can explore unique natural attractions like the Nature’s Ice Palace, a walkable crevasse deep inside the glacier, and the Spannagel Cave, the largest cave system in the Central Alps.

Getting There: Your Journey to the “Eternal Ice”

Location

The Hintertux Glacier is located at the top of the Tuxertal, a side valley of the Zillertal in the Austrian state of Tyrol.

By Car

The drive to Hintertux is a scenic experience, whether through lush summer meadows or snow-covered winter landscapes.

From Innsbruck: The journey is about 87-95 km and takes approximately 1.5 hours. Take the A12 motorway to the Zillertal exit and continue on the B169 road.
From Munich: The drive is around 175-186 km and takes about 2 to 2.5 hours in normal traffic. The route typically goes via Kufstein, Wörgl, and then into the Zillertal valley.
From Salzburg: The trip takes roughly 2.5 hours by car. The route involves taking the A12 motorway and exiting at Zillertal.

Ample free outdoor and indoor parking is available directly at the valley station for day use.

By Public Transport

For a sustainable and convenient option, the regional public transport system is excellent.

Train to Jenbach: Take a train from major cities like Innsbruck or Salzburg to Jenbach station.
Zillertalbahn Railway: From Jenbach, transfer to the Zillertalbahn railway for a scenic 50-minute ride to Mayrhofen.
Bus to Hintertux: From Mayrhofen, the public bus (Route 4104) will take you up the valley to the Hintertux Glacier.

Accommodation

A wide range of lodging is available throughout the valley. For the most direct access to the lifts, consider staying in Hintertux itself, where several hotels are ski-in/ski-out. The nearby villages of Finkenberg, Lanersbach, and the livelier town of Mayrhofen also offer excellent hotel and apartment options, all connected by a reliable bus service.

Skiing & Snowboarding: A Winter Wonderland, Any Time of Year

As Austria’s only year-round ski area, Hintertux Glacier offers a winter wonderland 365 days a year. Its high altitude guarantees snow and provides slopes for all abilities, from gentle beginner runs to challenging off-piste routes.

Year-Round Operation

Thanks to its high altitude reaching up to 3,250 meters, the Hintertux Glacier provides expertly groomed pistes and reliable snow conditions throughout the year. While recent climate changes have sometimes forced closures in the hottest summer months, it still boasts the longest ski season in Austria.

Pistes for All Levels

The resort caters to every skier and snowboarder with up to 64 km of slopes.

Beginners: Gentle slopes are available at the Sommerbergalm, perfect for first-timers. The resort has numerous ski schools to help new skiers gain confidence.
Intermediates: The majority of the runs are intermediate, offering wide, perfectly groomed cruisers with stunning panoramic views.
Advanced & Off-Piste: For experts, there are challenging black runs and numerous unprepared ski routes. For safety, especially on unmarked freeride routes, it is crucial to check avalanche danger levels and consider hiring a local guide.

Betterpark Hintertux

Considered one of Europe’s top freestyle parks, Betterpark Hintertux is located at 3,200 meters and attracts both pros and amateurs. It typically opens from April to July and again from September to December, featuring various lines, jumps, and a constantly changing jib setup. The season often kicks off with the Hintertux Park Opening in early October.

Ski Rental & Schools

Multiple ski and snowboard rental shops are located at the base station and in the nearby villages, offering a wide selection of modern equipment. Numerous ski schools provide lessons for all ages and abilities, from beginner courses to advanced off-piste guiding.

Best Times to Ski

Autumn (Sep–Nov): Ideal for an early start to the season with excellent snow conditions on the glacier and fewer crowds.
Winter (Dec–Apr): The glacier becomes part of the expansive Ski & Glacier World Zillertal 3000, offering access to 206 km of slopes with a single pass.
Spring (Apr–May): Known as the best time by many, offering sunny “sunshine skiing” on powder snow combined with pleasant temperatures.
Summer (Jun–Aug): A unique experience with up to 20 km of skiable pistes, perfect for morning ski sessions before enjoying other alpine activities.

Hiking & Glacier Adventures: Explore Beyond the Slopes

The Hintertux Glacier offers a wealth of activities for adventurers who want to explore beyond the ski slopes. From breathtaking panoramic views to underground ice and marble caves, there is plenty to discover all year round.

Panoramic Views

An absolute highlight is the Panorama Terrace at 3,250 meters, located at the top station of the Glacier bus 3 lifts.

From this wheelchair-accessible viewing platform, you can enjoy a stunning and extensive panorama that stretches from the Zugspitze to the Dolomites and the Großglockner.
It is an excellent way for everyone, including those with strollers, to experience high-altitude Alpine views without demanding physical exertion.

Summer Hiking Trails

The area offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels, set against a spectacular backdrop of mountains, waterfalls, and alpine meadows.

Difficulty levels: Ranging from easy, scenic walks to challenging high-alpine treks, there is a route for every hiker.
Flora and fauna: Keep an eye out for diverse alpine flora blooming in the meadows during the warmer months. With some luck, you might also spot some of the local wildlife.
Themed trails: Special trails, like the one that follows the Tuxbach river, often include fun-filled learning stations about the area’s nature, making them great for families. Another path leads along breathtaking waterfalls that are fed by the glacier’s meltwater.

Nature’s Ice Palace

Just a short walk from the top station of the Gletscherbus 3 is the entrance to the Natural Ice Palace (Natur Eis Palast).

Unique exploration: Discovered in 2007, this natural wonder is a walkable crevasse deep inside the glacier.
Ice formations: On guided tours, visitors can marvel at magical ice stalactites, giant sparkling ice crystals, frozen waterfalls, and an underground glacier lake.
Subglacial boat tour: Some tours even offer a unique opportunity to take a boat trip on the glacial lake, deep beneath the ski slope.
Constant temperature: The temperature inside is a constant 0°C, so warm clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended.

Spannagel Cave

For a different kind of underground adventure, visit the Spannagel Cave, located near the Spannagelhaus.

Geological history: This is the largest marble cave in the Central Alps and Europe’s highest accessible show cave.
Guided tours: Guided tours take you through about 500 meters of the 10-kilometer cave system, revealing interesting geological features like colored marble, crystals, and calc-sinter formations.
Cave museum: A small museum inside the cave showcases artifacts found within the mountain’s interior.

Activities for Non-Skiers

The Hintertux area offers plenty to do for those not interested in skiing or snowboarding.

Snowshoeing: In winter, you can enjoy guided snowshoeing tours through the serene, snow-covered landscapes.
Paragliding: Get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning valley with a tandem paragliding flight. Several operators in the area offer this unforgettable experience.
Mountain Biking: In summer, the valley becomes a mountain biker’s paradise with numerous signposted routes suitable for all skill levels. E-bikes are also available for rent.

Best Times to Hike

Summer (June–September): This is the ideal time for most high-alpine hiking, with warm weather and the full extent of the trail network open.
Autumn (September–October): The autumn season offers a special experience, with golden larches creating a vibrant display of color, crisp air, and fewer crowds.

Must-Do Experiences & Tips

Ride the Glacier Buses

The journey to the top is an experience in itself. From the base station at 1,500m, the three “Gletscherbus” gondolas transport you up the mountain, offering progressively more spectacular, panoramic views of the Zillertal Alps.

Enjoy a Meal with a View

Take a break at one of the mountain restaurants, such as the panoramic Tuxer Fernerhaus at 2,660m or the more traditional Gletscherhütte at 3,075m. The large sun terraces are the perfect spot to soak in the stunning mountain scenery while enjoying a hearty Tyrolean meal.

Dress in Layers

High-altitude weather can change rapidly. Wear layers, following the three-layer system: a moisture-wicking base, an insulating mid-layer, and a protective outer shell. This allows you to adjust to the temperature, which can vary significantly between the valley and the summit.

Acclimatize to the Altitude

With the summit at 3,250m, it’s wise to take it easy on your first day to allow your body to adjust to the thinner air. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid over-exertion.

Check Conditions Before You Go

Whether you’re skiing or hiking, always check the weather forecast and confirm piste or trail openings. Conditions can change quickly, and the official Hintertux Glacier website provides up-to-date information.

Consider the Zillertal Superskipass or Zillertal Activcard

Zillertal Superskipass: If visiting during the winter season (early December to late April), this pass offers access to all 202 km of slopes in the Zillertal 3000 ski area, which includes the Hintertux Glacier.
Zillertal Activcard: Available for consecutive days from late May to late October, this card offers benefits for summer visitors. It includes one daily ascent and descent on selected lifts (including the Hintertuxer Gletscherbahn), free entry to outdoor swimming pools, and discounts at numerous partner businesses. For those planning multiple activities, the savings can be significant.

The Hintertux Glacier is a year-round spectacle of nature, offering a rare blend of icy adventure and alpine beauty 365 days a year. Its dual personality makes it a truly unique destination for any traveler.

Whether you are carving down pristine ski slopes in summer, hiking through lush meadows in autumn, or exploring the magical depths of the Nature’s Ice Palace, Hintertux delivers unforgettable experiences.

The combination of world-class, year-round winter sports with breathtaking natural wonders like the Spannagel Cave and panoramic summit views creates a destination that fascinates in every season. For a journey that combines the thrill of adventure with the profound beauty of the high Alps, the Hintertux Glacier is an unparalleled choice.

Visiting Austria’s Hintertux Glacier: A Year-Round Paradise for Skiing and Hiking