Ski touring in the Zillertal in December: Discover the best routes

Winter in the Zillertal starts early – especially for ski tourers who want to explore the snow-covered mountains beyond the groomed slopes. December already offers plenty of options: from easy south-facing tours to classic alpine routes with guaranteed panoramic views. The following guide provides specific tour suggestions with detailed information such as elevation gain, ascent times, difficulty, and safety in early winter. Whether you're a beginner or looking for a challenging glacier route, there's a suitable ski tour for everyone here.

Table of contents

• Why ski touring in the Zillertal in December?
• Top ski tours in the Zillertal for beginners
• The best ski tours for advanced skiers
• Challenging routes for experts
• Equipment and safety in December
• Comparison: Which tour suits you best?
• Avoiding Mistakes & Pro Tips
• FAQ – Frequently asked questions about ski touring in the Zillertal in December
• Conclusion

Why ski touring in the Zillertal in December?

Snow conditions and tour start

From the beginning of December, tours in the Zillertal valley are often quite possible from around 1,500–1,800 meters. Particularly in the Tux and Zillertal Alps, heavy snowfall occurs early, making tours like the one to the Pfaffenbichl (starting point: Hochfügen, 1,470 m) easily doable. Important: The snowpack can still be unstable in the first few weeks – the issue of old snow is a concern. Nevertheless, December is an ideal month to embark on your first ski tours after the summer break – with caution and preparation.

Advantages of the pre-season

In December, the crowds are manageable: you'll rarely encounter large groups and can usually enjoy untouched slopes. Classics like the Rastkogel or the Marchkopf are still relatively quiet in early winter. This month also offers clear advantages for training: harder snow, often good visibility, and excellent conditions on south-facing slopes. The more tranquil atmosphere makes tours in the Zillertal particularly rewarding at this time of year.

Safety in early winter

The biggest risk in December is the early winter snowpack. Often, a thin layer of old snow lies beneath the surface, providing a base for new snowfall – perfect for avalanches. Changes during the day (e.g., a sudden drop in temperature or wind) can also spontaneously increase the risk. Therefore, it's essential to stay informed about the current conditions, carry complete safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, probe, shovel), and choose tours appropriate to your skill level.

• Fresh snow cover and untouched slopes
• Low tourist traffic
• Easily accessible starting points thanks to reliable snow conditions in the high mountains
• Ideal training conditions before the peak season

Top ski tours in the Zillertal for beginners

Pfaffenbichl – South-facing slope tour with an early start

One of the most popular beginner tours in the Zillertal is the Pfaffenbichl . The tour starts at the Hochfügen parking lot (approx. 1,470 m) and leads up south-facing slopes to about 2,100 m. Thanks to its moderate ascent (600–700 m) and short hiking time (2–2.5 hours), the Pfaffenbichl is ideal as a first tour in December. The southern exposure often ensures stable conditions and good spring snow conditions early in the season.

Hüttenkogel – easy winter tour from Schlegeis reservoir

For those venturing further into the upper Zillertal valley, the Hüttenkogel (2,350 m) is highly recommended. The route begins at the Schlegeis Reservoir , which is not directly accessible by car in winter – an approach via the toll road is necessary. With 650 meters of elevation gain and a 2–2.5 hour ascent, the tour offers ample opportunity to build fitness, along with a fantastic panoramic view of the lower Zillertal glacier region. Despite the slightly longer start, this tour is ideal for anyone wanting to experience their first ski tour away from the crowds.

tour	Elevation gain	Length of time	Starting point	Avalanche safety
Pfaffenbichl	600–700 hm	2–2.5 h	Hochfügen	high
Hüttenkogel	650 m	2–2.5 h	Schlegeis reservoir	medium

The best ski tours for advanced skiers

Rastkogel – a classic for December

The Rastkogel (2,762 m) is considered an ideal classic ski tour for advanced skiers. The approach is usually via Innerpenken near Hippach . The south-facing ascent, with approximately 1,200 meters of elevation gain (ascent time: 4–5 hours), is often easily accessible as early as December. At the top, you'll find open slopes with spectacular views across the Tux Alps. Those who start early benefit from stable conditions and a quieter route.

Gilfert or Marchkopf – variety of options in the Tux Alps

Both the Gilfert (2,506 m) and the Marchkopf (2,499 m) offer varied terrain and different access options. The Gilfert ascent starts from either Weerberg or Hochfügen and involves an elevation gain of approximately 1,200–1,300 meters. The Marchkopf (starting point: Hochfügen) is somewhat shorter at around 1,000 meters. Both tours offer wide hollows and gentler slopes with excellent downhill skiing – perfect for experienced and fit ski tourers.

Wanglspitze & Kreuzjoch – in the ski area with advantages for the ascent

The Wanglspitze (2,420 m) and the Kreuzjoch (2,558 m) start near the Tux-Vorderlanersbach and Finkenberg ski resorts, respectively . Here, easy accessibility is combined with open, varied terrain. When snow conditions in the valley are low, these are perfect options for enjoying ski touring. With 1,000–1,200 meters of elevation gain and approximately 3.5–4.5 hours of ascent each, both tours offer a challenging and stable route.

tour	Elevation gain	Length of time	Starting point	Frequency	Season start
Rastkogel	1,200 m	4–5 h	Hippach – Innerpenken	medium	December
Gilfert	1,200–1,300 m	4–5 h	Weerberg/Hochfügen	high	December
Marchkopf	1,000 m	3–4 h	Hochfügen	high	December
Torhelm	1,100–1,300 m	4–5 h	Stilluptal	low	December
Wanglspitze	1,000–1,100 hm	3–4 h	Vorderlanersbach	medium	December
Kreuzjoch	1,000–1,200 m	3.5–4.5 h	Finkenberg	small amount	December

Challenging routes for experts

Ahornspitze – a classic Zillertal hike with 1500 meters of elevation gain

The Ahornspitze, at almost 3,000 meters high, is one of the most spectacular ski tours in the valley. Starting from Ginzling, the route ascends 1,500 meters in altitude over a 6-7 hour climb to one of the region's most beautiful panoramic peaks. The long approach demands good physical condition and experience. In good conditions in December, an early ascent is worthwhile, offering unobstructed views across the main Alpine ridge.

Wild Krimmlerin – high-alpine glacier proximity

The Wilde Krimmlerin , a true expert tour starting in Krimml (via the Wildgerlos Valley) with glacier contact, takes you to altitudes of over 3,000 meters. With 1,550 meters of elevation gain and a 6-7 hour ascent, the challenging terrain demands alpine experience, rope techniques, and the utmost avalanche awareness. An early start, stable conditions, and perfect navigation are essential for a safe and enjoyable high-alpine adventure.

• Only in stable weather and avalanche conditions
• Glacier contact requires rope and knowledge
• Plan your tour early and allow for extra time.

Equipment and safety in December

Essential equipment in early winter

December demands a complete emergency and safety kit. Crampons, in particular, should be standard equipment early on – hard snow or icy sections are typical. A bivouac sack and first-aid kit should also be included on every tour. Warm gloves and insulating clothing are equally essential.

• Touring skis & skins
• crampons
• Avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe
• First aid kit + bivouac sack
• Weather protection, warm backup
• Glacier goggles, sunscreen

Safety tips at a glance

• Check the current avalanche situation
• Never go alone
• Beware of old snow in December
• Only start in safe weather conditions.
• Regular training with avalanche transceivers