Snow Biking in Obertauern: An Unforgettable Winter Experience

Still undecided? The basics of snow biking are surprisingly easy to master, and the feeling of freedom and fun kicks in from the very first turns. If you’re ready to try something new this winter, snow biking could be the perfect choice. Read on to discover where you can experience it in Obertauern.

Snow Biking: A New Dimension of Adrenaline on Snow

Obertauern is known as one of the snowiest destinations in Austria, so it comes as no surprise that snow biking has become a real hit here. Snow biking introduces a completely new dimension of adrenaline on snow. It combines the comfort of a full-suspension mountain bike with skis instead of wheels, offering a fresh perspective on descending snowy slopes.

There are two types of snow bikes: seated and standing. While the names clearly hint at the difference, the key lies in the riding style. The seated snow bike is the more classic and stable option, featuring two small skis in place of wheels. Thanks to its stability, it is especially popular with beginners and anyone looking for a safe and comfortable ride on groomed slopes.

The standing snow bike, on the other hand, is ridden exactly as the name suggests – standing up, without a seat. With a frame, handlebars and a single ski, it offers greater freedom of movement and agility, but also requires more skill. This makes it a favourite among experienced riders, freestyle enthusiasts and anyone seeking a more dynamic, adrenaline-fuelled ride. In short, the seated snow bike delivers stability and ease, while the standing version opens the door to faster reactions and a more active experience on snowy terrain.

Mastering turns and braking are the key skills, and although they may sound challenging, they are learned much faster than you might expect.

Why is Snow Biking Suitable Even for Non-skiers?

If you’re not a fan of skiing or have never had the chance to try it, Obertauern still offers plenty of winter fun. Snowy turns, drifting, excitement and adrenaline all come together, and with professional snow biking instruction, this activity can be learned in a safe and controlled way.

High speed isn’t essential, which makes snow biking an ideal way to explore the beauty of perfectly groomed ski slopes at your own pace. While the basic techniques are easy to pick up, mastering the ride on the piste does require strength and coordination. Don’t be discouraged, though – once you try this winter sport, you’ll almost certainly want to come back for more.

Unlike skiing, snow biking offers spectacular views and access to parts of the resort that are often hard to reach on skis, along with the unique feeling of being among a small group of people who have experienced this still relatively undiscovered winter activity.

Tours take place on the slopes of the Obertauern ski area, with clear organisation tailored to guests with no prior experience. The instructors are specially trained for this activity, further enhancing both safety and the overall quality of the experience.

Snow Biking in Obertauern

Although Obertauern is best known as a ski resort, snow biking has been gaining increasing popularity in recent years. In Obertauern, there is a ski school where you can learn how to ride a snow bike. The Koch Ski School has been operating since 1947, and its head instructor, Hermann Koch, is one of the pioneers of snow biking in Austria and beyond.

During a snow biking course, participants learn the basics of turning and braking, as well as how to use the equipment on gondolas and chairlifts. Best of all, no prior skiing or snowboarding experience is needed. Hermann Koch has set four Guinness World Records with his snow bike, one of the most notable being in 2013, when he and a fellow snow biker explored 33 ski resorts across three federal states in just three days. His most recent record was set in 2016, when he completed 25 full rotations on a snow bike.

In addition to courses, guided daytime tours are also available, offering further familiarisation with the equipment and safe descents down the slopes under expert supervision. Among the most special experiences are the evening tours, with the famous Moonlight Tour standing out as a highlight, including a break at a mountain hut.

Course and Guided Tour Information:

Basic Course

• Duration: 2 hours
• Includes: instruction in riding techniques and snow bike rental
• Price: from €89

*After the course, the snow bike remains available to participants for the rest of the day.

Guided Tour

• Duration: approx. 4 hours
• Includes: a short practice session followed by a guided tour of the ski area with an instructor
• Route: Tauern Circuit (adapted to the participants’ skill level)
• Group size: minimum of 5 participants
• Price: approx. €429

*Equipment rental is included in the price.

Another fun fact that might inspire you to try this adrenaline-filled sport is that The Beatles gave it a go while filming HELP! in Obertauern back in 1965. And if you’re lucky enough, you might even find yourself riding a snow bike through the slopes alongside world record holder Hermann Koch himself. Good luck!

Winter in Obertauern Brings Unforgettable Experiences

Whether you choose skiing, snowboarding, snow biking or simply a leisurely walk through the snow, Obertauern will win you over with its atmosphere and a wide range of activities for all generations. Located at an altitude of 1,630 metres, one of Austria’s highest ski resorts is renowned for its reliable snow conditions, excellent slopes, ski schools and a variety of winter experiences.

Valamar’s Snow Experience Concierge is available to assist you with booking activities in Obertauern. From choosing a ski school to reserving your snow bike session, the team will make sure everything is arranged before your winter adventure begins.

All that’s left for you to do is enjoy everything Obertauern has to offer. And if you’re looking for adrenaline, the chance to learn new skills and plenty of fun, a snow biking adventure is waiting for you. One thing is certain – choosing Obertauern as your next winter destination is a decision you won’t regret.