Last season, I explored some incredible alpine terrain across the Tyrol Alps. Each tour had its own character — from long, committing summits to technical ridge climbs — but what they all shared was breathtaking scenery, challenging ascents, and unforgettable powder descents. Here are my 5 favourite ski tours of the season and why they made it to the top of my list.
1️⃣ Hochwilde (3,461 m) – Ötztal Alps
Route: Ski Touring from Obergurgl
Stats: ↗ 1,885 m | 📏 30 km | ⏱ 9–10 h (long day tour, optional 2-day with overnight)
Difficulty: Moderate skiing & alpine; glacier & crampons required
Why I Loved It:
Hochwilde was my number one tour of the season. After a week of fresh snow, we were greeted with deep powder, endless views, and a stunning final ridge. Long and demanding, it had everything I love about ski mountaineering: effort, solitude, and reward.
Pro Tip: Split it into two days with an overnight at Langtalereckhütte for a more relaxed pace and stunning sunset views.
2️⃣ Gsallkopf (3,277 m) – Ötztal Alps
Route: Day Tour from Kaunerberg
Stats: ↗ 1,700 m | 📏 20 km | ⏱ 5–6 h ascent
Difficulty: Moderate to hard skiing; technical ridge & couloir sections; glacier travel & crampons mandatory
Why I Loved It:
Gsallkopf is pure alpine intensity. A steep couloir, exposed north ridge, and final summit ridge demanded focus, but the payoff was unforgettable. Every turn on the descent reminded me why challenging tours stick with you.
Start at Kaunerberg, follow a toboggan run, and enter a remote valley via a 1 km tunnel.
Pro Tip: Only for experienced ski tourers — ice axe and solid alpine skills are essential.
3️⃣ Hochstubaihütte (3,170 m) – Stubai Alps
Route: 2-day Ski Tour via Wütenkarsattel
Stats: ↗ 1,700 m | 📏 15 km | ⏱ 5–6 h ascent
Difficulty: Easy to moderate skiing; short alpine section with glacier travel
Why I Loved It:
Hochstubaihütte is all about atmosphere. A long approach through quiet valleys, a short steep passage at Wütenkarsattel, and an exposed winter room with a sunset view made this tour unforgettable. It’s perfect if you want a balanced mix of effort and relaxation.
Pro Tip: Spend the night to enjoy sunrise photography and a relaxed descent the next day.
4️⃣ Olperer (3,476 m) – Zillertal Alps
Route: 2-day Classic via Olpererhütte
Stats: ↗ 1,800 m | 📏 16–18 km | ⏱ 5–6 h summit day
Difficulty: Easy to moderate skiing; glacier travel recommended
Why I Loved It:
Olperer is a perfect example of an endurance-focused tour. Gentle glacier terrain, steady ascent, and a panoramic summit make it one of the most rewarding classic alpine tours.
Route Highlights:
Day 1: Ascend to Olpererhütte, enjoy a quiet winter room and evening glow.
Day 2: Summit ascent via upper glacier; final meters may require crampons depending on conditions.
Pro Tip: Timing matters — overnight at Olpererhütte ensures optimal snow and lighter traffic.
5️⃣ Ruderhofspitze (3,473 m) – Stubai Alps
Route: Summit from winter room base (2-day tour)
Stats: ↗ 1,350 m ascent (day 2) | ↘ 2,000 m descent | technical ridge & glacier travel
Difficulty: Moderate to technical; crampons & ice axe mandatory
Why I Loved It:
Ruderhofspitze is demanding but incredibly rewarding. Combining a quiet winter room, a secondary summit on day 1, and a high alpine main summit on day 2 made it a highlight of the season. The final ridge offers panoramic views and a true alpine challenge.
Final Thoughts & What’s Next 🌨️
This season reminded me why I do this — ski touring isn’t just about summits or turns, it’s about moments that take your breath away, the quiet of a winter room, the feel of fresh powder under your skis, and the endless mountain views that stay with you long after the descent.
These five tours are just a glimpse of what I love about the Alps. I’m slowly putting together a full ski touring guide, sharing more stories, tips, and personal experiences from my seasons out there. For those who choose to support my work, detailed GPX tracks will be available — a little thank-you to the people who help me keep exploring, skiing, and sharing these adventures.
I hope these stories inspire you to get out there, find your own favourite peaks, and discover why the mountains have a way of sticking with you.