Whether you call it sledding, rodeln, or simply flying down the mountain on a wooden sled, this timeless activity is a must-try for visitors of all ages.
Tobogganing in Obertauern is more than just a downhill ride – it’s an experience. Picture winding tracks through snowy forests, laughter echoing across the mountains, and the thrill of racing under the stars on an illuminated night run.
If you’re planning a trip to Obertauern, here’s why a toboggan ride deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Why Tobogganing in Obertauern?
Tobogganing has been part of alpine culture for generations, and in Obertauern it feels especially magical. Unlike skiing or snowboarding, you don’t need special skills or training – just hop on a sled and let gravity do the work. That makes it one of the most accessible winter activities for visitors of all ages.
What makes tobogganing here stand out is the atmosphere. The tracks wind through snowy forests and mountain meadows, offering stunning views during the day and a sparkling, festive vibe at night. The runs are long enough to give you a real thrill, but still safe and manageable for beginners and families.
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline kick, a fun evening activity after skiing, or a family-friendly adventure away from the slopes, Obertauern’s toboggan runs deliver the perfect mix of excitement and alpine charm.
Toboggan Runs in Obertauern
Obertauern may be best known for its ski slopes, but its two toboggan runs prove that sledding can be just as thrilling – and often a lot less serious.
Whether you’re racing friends, laughing with family, or simply enjoying a different way down the mountain, these tracks promise winter fun from start to finish.
Gnadenalm Toboggan Run
If you want classic winter fun with zero hassle, the Gnadenalm toboggan run is the place to be. It’s a 1.5 km natural sledding track, winding through snowy meadows and forests that look straight out of a Christmas card.
And when the sun goes down, the fun doesn’t have to stop. Obertauern may be famous for its night skiing, but you can also swap skis for a sled and race down the floodlit track for a different kind of thrill.
The best part? You don’t even have to drag your sled uphill. Simply hop on the Skidoo snowmobile taxi, which zips you straight to the start of the track. For a small fee, you get the full alpine “rollercoaster” experience without the sweat. Of course, you can also hike up if you’d rather earn your descent.
Once at the top, all that’s left is to grab your sled, push off, and let gravity do the rest. You’ll fly around curves, laugh your way through the straights, and probably end up racing whoever’s next to you. And when you reach the bottom, you can head straight into the Gnadenalm hut for a warm drink and hearty Austrian food before doing it all over again.
Practical info:
- Length: 1.5 km natural track
- Opening hours: Daily, 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Toboggan rental: €9 per sled
- Ascent options: On foot or via Skidoo snowmobile taxi
- Toboggan taxi price: €8 per person per ride, €5 per person for children up to 5 years old
Südwienerhütte Toboggan Run
If you’re up for more of an adventure, head to the Südwienerhütte toboggan run. This track stretches a full 5 km, making it the longest sledding route in Obertauern and a great option if you’re looking for a ride that lasts more than just a few minutes.
Unlike Gnadenalm, there’s no Skidoo to whisk you to the top. You’ll start with a scenic winter hike of about 1 to 1.5 hours, winding through snowy forests before reaching the start of the run. The effort is rewarded with an exciting descent filled with long straights and twisting curves where you can pick up serious speed.
One important note: the Südwienerhütte itself is currently closed, so there’s no hut service at the top. Be sure to bring your own snacks, water, and anything you might want before the ride down. If you’d prefer a hassle-free adventure, our Experience Concierge team can help you organize the full excursion, including sled rental and local transfers. Since the track isn’t illuminated, plan your outing during daylight hours only.
It’s a wilder, more back-to-nature experience compared to Gnadenalm – perfect if you like your tobogganing with a side of adventure.
Practical info:
- Length: 5 km natural track
- Opening hours: Only during the day (no floodlights – plan to go before dark)
- Access: On foot (approx. 1–1.5 hour winter hike) – no lift or taxi service
- Hut: Südwienerhütte is currently closed – no food/drink service available at the top
- Rental: Sleds available locally in Obertauern (approx. €5–10) – not at the hut itself
- Difficulty: Longer and faster than Gnadenalm, better for adventurous adults and older kids
- What to bring: Warm clothing, sturdy winter boots, gloves, snacks, water
Together, these two tracks offer the best of both worlds: the easy-access, family-friendly glow of Gnadenalm and the sporty, adventure-filled thrill of Südwienerhütte. No matter which one you choose (or if you try both), you’ll leave with flushed cheeks, sore belly from laughing, and memories that beat any après-ski party.
Combine Tobogganing with Other Winter Fun
Tobogganing is just the start – Gnadenalm and Obertauern are packed with other winter adventures that show off the mountains in different ways.
You can slip under a blanket and enjoy the snowy landscape on a horse-drawn sleigh ride, or strap on a pair of snowshoes and head out across peaceful alpine trails at your own pace. For something a little quirkier, try snow biking, a playful twist on mountain biking that lets you cruise over snow-covered slopes.
The area is also known for its excellent cross-country skiing, with trails that begin right at Gnadenalm and lead you through stunning high-altitude scenery. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, Obertauern is one of the few places where you can try snow kiting, letting the wind carry you across open snowy plateaus for an adrenaline-filled ride.
Each of these activities offers a different way to experience winter in Obertauern – and they’re easy to combine with tobogganing for a holiday that’s as active, varied, and unforgettable as you want it to be.
Your Next Alpine Adventure Starts on a Sled
Tobogganing in Obertauern proves that some of the best winter memories are made off the ski slopes.
With the floodlit Gnadenalm run, you can race under the stars without any effort thanks to the Skidoo taxi, while the Südwienerhütte track offers a wilder adventure for those who don’t mind earning their ride with a scenic hike.
Don’t just ski Obertauern – sled it too.
