Schladming - Planai - Hochwurzen Piste Map

The terrain of Schladming – Planai – Hochwurzen is centred on two main mountains that are fully linked by lifts and pistes, creating a seamless skiing experience. Planai rises directly above the town and forms the core of the network, while Hochwurzen extends the skiable area eastwards with a slightly quieter, more traditional feel. Together, they offer a balanced mix of open slopes, forest-lined runs, and high-altitude ridges with wide views across the Ennstal valley.

Planai is known for its broad, well-prepared pistes that are ideal for cruising. The upper mountain features long red runs that maintain consistent gradients, making them popular with intermediate and advanced skiers. Several high-speed six-seater and eight-person chairlifts, along with gondolas, ensure efficient access to the main ski zones. The area also hosts key race sections used during international competitions, adding a sense of sporting heritage to everyday skiing.

Hochwurzen provides a contrasting experience, with more undulating terrain and a strong emphasis on natural contours. Many pistes here flow through wooded sections, offering shelter on windy or snowy days. The mountain is also home to a popular evening skiing area, with well-lit slopes extending into the evening hours during peak season. This makes Hochwurzen particularly appealing for visitors looking to extend their ski day.

Beginners are well catered for on the lower slopes of Planai and near the Hochwurzen base, where gentle blue pistes and modern surface lifts create a comfortable learning environment. Dedicated practice zones, ski schools, and family areas allow new skiers to progress confidently before moving onto longer descents. These areas are carefully separated from faster traffic, helping to maintain a relaxed atmosphere.

Intermediate skiers benefit from the resort’s strong emphasis on red pistes, which account for a significant portion of the terrain. These runs connect most major lift stations and form the backbone of the ski area. Many offer sustained length without becoming overly steep, making them suitable for improving technique and enjoying longer cruising sessions. The resort’s 29 per cent intermediate and 63 per cent advanced distribution reflects this focus on confident recreational skiing.

Advanced and expert skiers will find challenging sections on steeper faces and race-oriented pistes, particularly on Planai. Short but demanding black runs, combined with technical red pistes, provide opportunities to test edge control and endurance. A dedicated terrain park area includes rails, pipes, and freestyle features, adding variety for snowboarders and freestyle skiers. With views of the Dachstein range and open alpine landscapes, the terrain delivers both technical interest and impressive scenery.