Information
Landmark: Maiskogel MountainCity: Zell am See
Country: Austria
Continent: Europe
Maiskogel Mountain, Zell am See, Austria, Europe
Overview
Maiskogel Mountain, with its gentle slopes and wide trails, sits in Kaprun, right in the heart of Austria’s Zell am See-Kaprun region.It’s part of the sprawling Zell am See-Kaprun Ski Area, drawing skiers in winter and hikers in summer, when the trails smell of pine and fresh mountain air.Perched at a comfortable height and offering plenty to do, Maiskogel welcomes families, first-timers, and anyone who prefers a gentler taste of the Alps-like a quiet slope where you can hear the snow crunch under your boots.Maiskogel Mountain tops out at 1,440 meters (4,724 feet), its grassy slopes sitting just beneath the icy sweep of the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, a perfect starting point for roaming the Zell am See-Kaprun region.You can reach the mountain quickly from Kaprun, the little valley town at its base.In winter, Maiskogel draws skiers and snowboarders of every skill level, though it’s the gentle slopes that make beginners and families smile most.First.For beginners and families, Maiskogel’s gentle slopes are perfect-wide, forgiving runs where kids can wobble down their first hill with a smile.The mountain has gentle beginner runs and a few wide practice areas where you can hear the crunch of fresh snow under your boots.Ski schools here teach kids and adults alike, with both group and private lessons for newcomers.If you’re ready for more, Maiskogel’s red slopes give intermediate skiers and snowboarders plenty of room to sharpen their skills.Families with young children will also find it a welcoming, fun spot to spend the day.The Maisiflitzer is an alpine coaster that sends kids and adults swooping down snowy curves, a thrilling ride for anyone brave enough to hop on.Race down the mountain for an adrenaline rush, with crisp alpine air in your face and sweeping views all around.For a slower pace, follow the marked winter hiking trails on Maiskogel, perfect for soaking in the quiet snow.Strap on snowshoes and wander through soft, untouched drifts, exploring the stillness at your own rhythm.When summer arrives, the mountain shifts into a lively playground, packed with outdoor adventures for every kind of traveler.One.The mountain’s got trails for everyone, from gentle strolls through wildflower-filled alpine meadows to steep climbs that take you into the thin, crisp air higher up.A favorite hike takes you up the mountain trail to the Schmittenhöhe, while from the top of nearby Maiskogel you can see the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier gleaming in the sun, Lake Zell spread out below, and the green sweep of the Zell am See valley; Maiskogel’s winding trails also draw plenty of mountain bikers.In this region, you’ll find a web of mountain bike trails for every rider, whether you’re just starting out or chasing steep, technical runs.In summer, the Maiskogel Cable Car carries you and your bike up the slope so you can race the wind back to the valley.And if you’re after a bird’s-eye view, paragliding from Maiskogel’s peak lets you drift high above the rolling green hills.Soar above the Zell am See–Kaprun region for sweeping views of its bright blue lake and rugged peaks, then hop on the Maiskogel Cable Car-the easiest way up the mountain and a smooth, scenic ride from Kaprun to the summit.In recent years, the gondola’s been upgraded, making the ride up smooth, quick, and comfortable.It’s perfect for families, offering a relaxed way to reach Maiskogel’s summit, where the air feels crisp and the views seem endless.From the top, you can spot the glassy sweep of Lake Zell against green slopes, the snow-bright Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, and the rugged peaks of Hohe Tauern National Park stretching into the distance.Once there, wander into a cozy mountain hut or a sunlit restaurant terrace, order a plate of warm Austrian dumplings, and take in the scenery.After a long hike or a day on the slopes, these spots are perfect for kicking back-maybe with a warm drink in hand.Maiskogel is in the middle of a facelift, adding new lifts and sleek, modern facilities to make visits smoother and the list of activities longer.If you’re here for skiing, snowboarding, or other winter sports, aim for December through March, when the slopes are blanketed in fresh snow.The mountain makes a great winter getaway for families, with snow-covered slopes perfect for play.Come summer, from June to September, Maiskogel turns into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and soaring over the valleys on a paraglider.In summer, the Maiskogel Cable Car whisks visitors to the mountaintop, where the air smells faintly of pine; come early autumn, cooler days and bursts of gold and crimson in the forests and meadows make the trip just as inviting.Maiskogel is also one of the most family-friendly spots in the Zell am See–Kaprun area.Maiskogel’s gentle slopes, kid-friendly fun like the winding Maisiflitzer ride, and easygoing activities make it a top pick for families.You can ski fresh powder, hike lush trails, tackle mountain bike routes, or simply take in the sweeping view of Lake Zell, the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, and the rugged Hohe Tauern peaks.Whether in summer or winter, it’s a place that captures the best of the Zell am See–Kaprun region.
