Cross-country skiing on the Seiser Alm

Heaven on earth for cross-country skiing in South Tyrol

Anyone who comes to the Seiser Alm for cross-country skiing will find a true winter paradise. The 80 kilometres of sun-kissed trails at an altitude between 1,800 and 2,200 metres are double or quadruple tracked and prepared to an excellent standard. Whether skating or classic style, beginner or pro, children or adults – the perfect trail awaits everyone. You ski exclusively on natural snow, with the breathtaking Dolomites panorama featuring Langkofel, Plattkofel and the Schlern constantly in view. Cross-country skiing also allows you to discover the untouched, tranquil areas of the Seiser Alm, such as Hartl and Joch. These Alpine pastures can only be reached in winter via the cross-country trails; no ski runs or winter hiking paths lead there. It is pure idyll for all who appreciate peace and nature.

Access to the Seiser Alm/Val Gardena trail network

How do I get to the cross-country ski trails?

To access the cross-country ski region, take the Seiser Alm Aerial Cablewayup to the top station. From there, you can reach the Ritsch cross-country centre via the connecting trail Compatsch–Ritsch or by taking the Almbus 11. All other trails start from the centre in Ritsch. The Val Gardena/Gröden cross-country area is connected to the Seiser Alm network and can be used with the same ticket. Moreover, the Seiser Alm/Val Gardena cross-country skiing region is part of Dolomiti NordicSki, the largest cross-country skiing carousel in Europe.

Trail map Seiser Alm/Val Gardena Trail map Dolomiti NordicSki

Teams from around the world train on the Seiser Alm

A training paradise for elite athletes

Even elite athletes appreciate the Seiser Alm’s unique advantages. The low-oxygen mountain air is one of the key reasons why cross-country skiing in South Tyrol is so appealing to them. Various teams and national squads – from Norway, Finland, Sweden, the USA, Russia and Italy – regularly come to the Seiser Alm to complete altitude and endurance training.

Two people are cross-country skiing on the Seiser Alm

Cross-country skiing under a full moon

Moonlight Classic

There is something special about the full moon at the end of January/ beginning of February: professionals and amateur cross-country skiers meet at the Seiser Alm for the Moonlight Classic, a cross-country race at moonlight. Participants can choose from two routes, a long and a short route: The long route is 30 km long and demanding, while the short route is 15 km long and rather easy. Start and goal of both races is Compatsch. Only classic diagonal style is allowed during the race.

How to behave on the trails

Consideration: You show consideration for other skiers and ensure your behaviour does not endanger or harm anyone.
Signs & markings: You follow signs, respect closures and adhere to the indicated direction and technique.
Track & piste choice: On double or multiple tracks, you ski on the right-hand track; this applies to groups as well. The right side of the slope is for skating.

Overtaking: You may overtake on either side. The skier being overtaken decides whether and when they can move aside safely.
Oncoming traffic: When meeting others, both parties move to the right. Skiers descending have right of way.
Pole handling: When overtaking, being overtaken or meeting others, you hold your poles close to your body to avoid obstructing anyone.
Speed: You adapt your speed to the conditions and keep a safe distance. If a collision threatens, you drop down to avoid danger.
Keeping trails & slopes clear: If you stop, you step out of the track/slope to keep it clear. The same applies if you fall.