Piste Overview
Blue
23 km (59%)
Red
14 km (36%)
Black
2 km (5%)
Ski Route
18 km
Total: 39 km
Lift System
Gondolas
Chairlifts
T-Bar Lifts
Aerial Trams
Total: 22 lifts
Slope Map
Resort Review
The Stubai Glacier is a high-alpine glacier ski resort with 65 km of slopes and 26 lifts—renowned for its reliable snow conditions, freestyle offering (Stubai Zoo), and well-organised family areas.
Advantages
- Exceptionally snow-reliable, high-alpine glacier ski area with wide carving runs and a solid base depth (65 km, approx. 1,750–3,210 m).
- An above-average freestyle offering, with the Stubai Zoo a destination in its own right.
- Family zones are spacious, clearly separated, and well organised (BIG Family at Gamsgarten).
Disadvantages
- Weather-exposed above the tree line: wind and flat light can affect the skiing experience—and at times operations—more strongly than in forested resorts.
- The piste offering is more mid-sized; very sporty skiers will “ski it out” faster than the truly vast mega-resorts.
- Après-ski is available, but more in pockets—this is not a dedicated party destination.
Glacier altitude instead of forest charm: very snow-sure, but exposed to the weather
The Stubai Glacier is Austria’s largest glacier ski area and plays to its strengths across a huge altitude range of around 1,750–3,210 m. That means excellent snow reliability and long, usable winter-sports conditions—at the same time, much of the ski area lies above the tree line. In wind, fog, or “flat light,” the terrain can quickly feel more demanding, and individual sectors may be restricted due to the weather.
With 65 km of pistes (mainly blue/red) plus ski routes, the area is big enough for several days, yet still compact enough to ski “in the flow” without long transfers.
Modern main lift arteries: fast uphill, few detours during the ski day
Comfort starts right with the access lift: the 3S Eisgratbahn takes you from the valley into the central ski area in a short time and is considered highly wind-stable. Up top, the sectors are laid out so that varied circuits (including the well-known glacier circuit around the Schaufelspitze) are easy to plan.
What makes a ski day here especially pleasant:
- Many wide, consistent glacier slopes – ideal for clean carving.
- Clear piste logic with good transitions between the main areas.
- Sporty extras such as a steeper “test” run and a longer descent option via ski routes (only advisable for advanced skiers).
Stubai Zoo: freestyle as a true core offering (with lines for several levels)
The Stubai Zoo isn’t just “a park on the side,” but a central reason many freestylers head to the Stubai Glacier specifically. The setup sits high on the glacier and offers multiple lines with features ranging from beginner to pro level.
Handy for mixed groups: while some ride the park, others have classic, wide pistes right next door—without losing sight of each other.
Powder Department: freeride with structure, but true alpine demands
Freeriding at the Stubai Glacier is visibly well organized (including freeride info, an avalanche transceiver check, and designated runs with digital orientation). The terrain is high-alpine and offers plenty of room after fresh snowfall—but it requires a solid assessment of avalanche conditions, visibility, and glacier/terrain hazards.
A good approach for many: use ski routes as a more “controlled” introduction, and for true off-piste plans rely on local know-how (e.g., a guide).
BIG Family at Gamsgarten: separate learning zones, short distances, lots of support
Families get a very strong, clearly structured setup at the Stubai Glacier: large practice areas (including the BIG Family Ski Camp), conveyor belts/magic carpets, and gentle slopes that are spatially separated from fast-moving traffic. Add family-friendly meeting points, ski school options, and extra fun elements such as fun slope variants.
Après-ski more selective: meeting points on the mountain and in the valley instead of a party strip
Après-ski exists, but it’s not the area’s defining character. Typically there are one or two established spots (up in the Gamsgarten area and down at the valley station). Anyone looking for an uninterrupted “party mile” will find stronger alternatives in Tyrol; if you like things sociable after skiing but not constantly loud, you’ll feel right at home here.
Top of Tyrol & the Stubai Valley around it: great additions for rest days and non-ski days
A reliable change of pace within the ski area is the “Top of Tyrol” viewing platform (reachable on foot from the top station). For additional activities, it’s worth looking to the Stubai Valley: winter hiking and tobogganing options are well represented in the region. Note: an ice grotto that was promoted in the past is currently listed as permanently closed.
Detailed Ratings
With **65 km of slopes** and **26 lift systems**, the Stubai Glacier is a mid-sized, very high-altitude ski area with a focus on wide blue and red runs. The modern main lift network ensures comfort; the downside is its susceptibility to weather above the tree line.
The **Stubai Zoo** is one of the best-known snowparks in the Alps: multiple lines, a high-altitude location, and a setup that appeals to both advanced riders and ambitious park enthusiasts. Complete beginners are best off starting out on easier lines first, or getting going with some guidance.
Freeriding has a clear, well-organized framework with the **Powder Department** (information, checkpoints, documented runs). The terrain is high-alpine and can be magnificent, but it demands experience, good visibility, and rigorous safety management.
Families will find a wealth of infrastructure at Gamsgarten: large practice areas, magic carpets, short distances, and extra fun features. Thanks to the spatial separation of the learning zones, the area remains easy to manage and well supervised despite its size.
Après-ski is centred around a handful of clear, well-defined meeting spots on the slopes and at the valley station. That’s enough for a sociable wind-down, but it’s not a place people book primarily for the nightlife.
With **Top of Tyrol**, there’s a striking highlight right in the ski area. Beyond that, the Stubai Valley offers great alternatives such as winter hiking and sledding—overall a solid choice, even if it’s not as urban as classic “ski & shopping” destinations.