Schmittenhöhe Mountain | Zell am See

Schmittenhöhe is a prominent mountain in the Salzburg Alps, near the town of Zell am See, Austria. It is renowned for its stunning panoramic views, excellent skiing opportunities in winter, and hiking routes in summer. Standing at 1,965 meters (6,447 feet), Schmittenhöhe offers year-round recreation and spectacular vistas of Lake Zell, the surrounding Alpine peaks, and even as far as the Hohe Tauern and Kitzbühel Alps.

Geography and Features

• Elevation: Schmittenhöhe rises to an altitude of 1,965 meters (6,447 feet).
• Panoramic Views: From the summit, visitors are treated to sweeping views of Lake Zell and the surrounding Alpine landscapes, including the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier and peaks like Grossglockner, Austria's highest mountain.
• Location: The mountain is situated above the town of Zell am See, easily accessible by both cable cars and hiking paths.

Winter Activities

Schmittenhöhe is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, particularly those interested in skiing and snowboarding.

Skiing & Snowboarding:

• Ski Resort: Schmittenhöhe is part of the larger Zell am See-Kaprun ski area, which offers around 77 kilometers (48 miles) of slopes for skiers and snowboarders.
• Runs: The mountain features slopes for all levels of skiers, from beginners to advanced, and is well-equipped with modern ski lifts.
• Snowboarding: A snow park with jumps and halfpipes caters to snowboarders.
• Freeride Areas: There are also designated off-piste zones for freeriders seeking a more adventurous experience.

Cross-Country Skiing:

• Schmittenhöhe is connected to cross-country skiing trails that wind through beautiful Alpine scenery, perfect for those who prefer a slower pace.

Winter Hiking:

• The area has dedicated winter hiking trails, which offer a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy the snow-covered landscape.

Summer Activities

In summer, Schmittenhöhe transforms into a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, and nature enthusiasts.

Hiking:

• Hiking Trails: Schmittenhöhe offers over 20 kilometers (12 miles) of well-marked hiking trails that cater to different levels, from casual walkers to more experienced hikers.
• Panoramic Trails: Some popular hikes lead visitors along ridgelines offering breathtaking views of Lake Zell, the Hohe Tauern, and other surrounding mountains.
• Summit Hikes: For those seeking a more challenging route, the summit of Schmittenhöhe is accessible via several hiking paths that provide a rewarding experience.

Mountain Biking:

• Biking Trails: The mountain is also a hub for mountain biking, with trails designed for varying levels of difficulty. The Schmittenhöhe Bike Park offers challenging terrain for bikers, including technical descents.

Alpine Flora and Fauna:

• Summer hikes often reveal the rich biodiversity of the area. Hikers can spot a variety of Alpine flowers, wildlife, and breathtaking views of glaciers and valleys.

Paragliding:

• Schmittenhöhe is a popular location for paragliding, offering breathtaking aerial views of the lake and mountains below.

Cable Cars and Accessibility

• Schmittenhöhebahn:
  • The Schmittenhöhe Cable Car is the primary way for visitors to reach the summit of the mountain. The ride takes visitors from Zell am See to the top of Schmittenhöhe in a matter of minutes, providing spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
• Panorama Lift: The Panorama Lift is another option that takes visitors up to the summit with additional stops for scenic views along the way.

Panoramic Views and Viewing Platforms

One of the highlights of Schmittenhöhe is the array of viewing platforms along the mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas.

• Lake Zell: The lake is visible from numerous vantage points, offering a striking contrast to the Alpine backdrop.
• Glacier Views: On clear days, visitors can see the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier and the Grossglockner massif, Austria’s highest peak.
• Hohe Tauern National Park: Schmittenhöhe is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Hohe Tauern National Park, known for its stunning mountain landscapes, glaciers, and pristine lakes.

Schmittenhöhe Summit

At the top of Schmittenhöhe, visitors can enjoy:

• Restaurants and Alpine Huts: These offer traditional Austrian cuisine and refreshments, perfect for a relaxing break after a day of activities. Some mountain huts provide stunning views while serving local specialties like Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake) and Tyrolean Speck (smoked ham).
• Observation Decks: Platforms at the summit allow for spectacular views of the Alps and the surrounding region.

Cultural and Seasonal Events

• Schmittenhöhe Summer Festival: A popular event featuring outdoor activities, music, and local food, typically held during the summer months.
• Winter Events: During the ski season, Schmittenhöhe hosts events such as après-ski parties and snow festivals.

Best Time to Visit

• Winter (December to April): Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
• Summer (May to October): Perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the Alpine flora and fauna.
• Autumn and Spring: These seasons offer quieter experiences and beautiful changes in the landscape, with colorful autumn foliage or spring wildflowers.

How to Reach Schmittenhöhe

• By Train: Zell am See is well-connected by train to Salzburg and other major cities in Austria. From Zell am See, a short bus or taxi ride will take you to the cable car station.
• By Car: Schmittenhöhe is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available at the cable car station.

Nearby Attractions

• Lake Zell: A short distance from the mountain, offering opportunities for boating, swimming, and scenic walks.
• Kitzsteinhorn Glacier: A nearby glacier and ski area for year-round skiing and hiking.
• Kaprun: The nearby town of Kaprun offers access to the Kaprun High Alpine Reservoirs, a stunning engineering feat in the region.

Schmittenhöhe is a versatile destination that offers spectacular experiences in both winter and summer, making it a must-visit location for anyone in the Zell am See region. Whether you're into skiing, hiking, or simply taking in panoramic mountain views, Schmittenhöhe provides a perfect Alpine adventure.