Zell am See-Kaprun Cable Car | Zell am See

The Zell am See-Kaprun Cable Car network is a popular and scenic way to explore the stunning mountains and glaciers of the Zell am See-Kaprun region in Austria. With multiple cable cars serving different areas, this transport system provides visitors access to some of the most beautiful and sought-after destinations in the Alps, including Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, Schmittenhöhe Mountain, and other stunning Alpine viewpoints.

Key Cable Cars and Areas

The Zell am See-Kaprun area is served by several major cable cars, each offering access to a unique part of the region. Here are the most notable ones:

1. Kitzsteinhorn Glacier Cable Car

• Location: This cable car connects the valley station in Kaprun to the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, the highest point in the region.
• Altitude: The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier reaches an impressive altitude of 3,203 meters (10,511 feet).
• Experience: The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier cable car system includes several stages, beginning with the Gletscherjet gondolas that take visitors up to the Alpine Center at around 2,450 meters. From here, you can continue further up to the summit station.
• Activities:
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: The glacier is a popular winter destination, offering year-round skiing and snowboarding.
  • Hiking: In summer, the glacier is accessible for hiking and mountaineering, with trails providing breathtaking views of the surrounding Alpine peaks.
  • Ice Arena and Gipfelwelt 3000: The Gipfelwelt 3000 is a visitor center located at the summit, offering panoramic views, an ice palace, and interactive exhibits about the region’s geology and nature.

2. Schmittenhöhe Cable Car

• Location: The Schmittenhöhe cable car connects the town of Zell am See to the top of Schmittenhöhe Mountain.
• Altitude: The summit of Schmittenhöhe is at 1,965 meters (6,447 feet).
• Experience: The Schmittenhöhe cable car includes multiple gondolas, such as the Zell am See-Schmittenhöhe lift and the Schmittenhöhebahn, offering a comfortable ride to the top of the mountain.
• Activities:
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Schmittenhöhe is a renowned winter sports destination, with a variety of slopes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
  • Hiking: In summer, the mountain offers hiking trails with views of Lake Zell, as well as alpine meadows, rocky terrain, and lush forests.
  • Panoramic Views: From the top, visitors can enjoy stunning views of Lake Zell, the Hohe Tauern National Park, and the surrounding Alpine peaks. The panoramic platform at the summit is a highlight for many visitors.

3. Maiskogel Cable Car

• Location: The Maiskogel Cable Car serves the Maiskogel Mountain, which is part of the Kaprun ski area and located just below the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier.
• Altitude: The summit of Maiskogel is at 1,440 meters (4,724 feet), making it more accessible than Kitzsteinhorn for families and those looking for a more leisurely experience.
• Experience: The Maiskogel cable car has been updated with modern gondolas and provides an easy ride up to the mountain’s top.
• Activities:
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Maiskogel is a family-friendly ski area, ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers.
  • Summer Activities: In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the views of the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier.
  • Views of Kaprun: The cable car offers stunning views of Kaprun and the surrounding valleys, especially from the Panorama Alm, a mountain hut where visitors can relax and enjoy regional cuisine.

4. Zell am See - Schmittenhöhe – Kaprun Ski Area

• This cable car network combines the Schmittenhöhe and Kaprun areas to create one of the largest interconnected ski regions in Austria, with lifts and slopes serving skiers from both sides of the valley.
• Activities:
  • Visitors can ski or snowboard between the Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn regions, taking advantage of the extensive slopes and varied terrain for all levels.
  • The area also offers opportunities for snowshoeing, winter hiking, and cross-country skiing.

Cable Car Passes and Ticketing

• The Zell am See-Kaprun region offers various ski passes and multi-day tickets that provide access to the cable cars. These passes allow visitors to travel between the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, Schmittenhöhe, and Maiskogel areas.
• Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card: For summer visitors, the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card provides discounted or free access to many cable cars, as well as additional attractions in the region such as museums, pools, and nature excursions.
• Single Ride Tickets: For those who are only interested in taking a single ride up one of the cable cars, individual tickets can be purchased for each lift.

Best Time to Visit

• Winter (December to March): This is the prime season for skiing and snowboarding, with all the cable cars running to provide access to the slopes. The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier offers year-round snow, making it an excellent destination for winter sports.
• Summer (June to September): In the summer months, the cable cars remain open for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the stunning mountain views. The warmer weather makes this an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.
• Autumn: Early autumn offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists and beautiful fall foliage. This is also a great time to enjoy the panoramic views without the crowds.

Why Visit the Zell am See-Kaprun Cable Car System?

• Panoramic Views: The main draw of the Zell am See-Kaprun Cable Car network is the incredible, panoramic views. Whether it’s the sparkling waters of Lake Zell, the towering Alpine peaks, or the iconic Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, the cable cars provide access to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Austria.
• Year-Round Access: The cable car system offers year-round access to the mountains, making it a great destination for both winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers who enjoy hiking, sightseeing, or simply experiencing the stunning Alpine environment.
• Convenience: The cable cars provide an easy way to access the mountains without needing to hike or drive up winding mountain roads. This makes it possible for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the beauty of the Zell am See-Kaprun region.

The Zell am See-Kaprun Cable Car system is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful landscapes of Austria’s Hohe Tauern National Park and experience the incredible views from the Alps. Whether you’re looking for skiing, hiking, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, the cable cars offer convenient access to some of the most scenic spots in the region.