Woman and child in orange car on summer bobsled track, cable car and mountains in background.
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Summer toboggan runs and Alpine coasters in Austria
Adrenaline, mountain panoramas, and family adventures

From a thrilling adrenaline rush to a leisurely ride down the valley: on the summer toboggan run, you'll experience Austria's mountains from a whole new perspective.

Summer toboggan runs in Austria turn the journey back down the mountain into an adventure. Winding through alpine meadows, forests and mountain scenery, the tracks race downhill through tunnels, over dips and around fast turns, often accompanied by impressive views.

Whether running in a trough or on rails, classic summer toboggan runs and modern alpine coasters offer different riding experiences but the same level of fun. Some tracks wind downhill for kilometres, while others feature banked turns, spirals or even themed worlds along the way.

Whether as a family outing, after a hike or as the perfect end to a day in the mountains, a ride on a summer toboggan run is sure to be a highlight.

Discover summer toboggan runs

Did you know? 
In many parts of Austria, summer toboggan runs are an integral part of the mountain experience. Whilst early facilities usually consisted of concrete or metal chutes, rail-guided systems were introduced over time. Today, the range extends from classic chute runs to modern Alpine coasters.

Summer toboggan runs in Austria: Trough or rails

Alpine coaster in Austria: Mountain rollercoaster

Tips & information

Useful things to know before your ride

Whether it's your first time or you're already a tobogganing enthusiast, a few practical tips can help you plan your day with ease.

Opening times: Most summer toboggan runs operate from spring to autumn, while many alpine coasters are open in winter as well.

Operating conditions: Classic trough-based runs usually operate only in dry weather. Many alpine coasters are designed for all-weather use, so light rain is generally not an issue.

Children: Children can usually ride as passengers from the age of three. Depending on the attraction and minimum height requirements, they may be allowed to ride alone from around seven or eight years old.

Getting to the start: The starting point is typically reached by cable car or lift, often making it easy to combine a ride with a hike or a visit to a playground.

Speed: On classic summer toboggan runs, you control the speed yourself. Alpine coasters limit the speed automatically, usually to between 40 and 45 km/h.

Tip: Check opening times and ride regulations with the operator before your visit, and allow a little extra time. One ride is rarely enough.

Safety tips for toboggan fun

Keep your distance

Only set off once the rider ahead has a safe lead.

Braking

Brake in good time and adjust your speed to the track conditions.

Follow instructions

Pay attention to signs and follow the guidance of staff at all times.

Be considerate

Stay alert and watch out for other riders.

Children

Accompany children in line with the attraction's safety requirements.

While riding

Keep your hands and feet inside the sled throughout the ride.

FAQs

Classic summer toboggan runs usually descend the mountain in a trough, with riders controlling their own speed. Alpine coasters run on rails and often feature additional elements such as spirals, jumps and dips. Their speed is automatically limited for added safety.

Children can usually ride as passengers from around the age of three. Depending on the attraction and minimum height requirements, they are generally allowed to ride on their own from the age of seven or eight. Exact age and height restrictions vary between operators.

Speeds vary from one attraction to another. On classic trough-based runs, riders control their own speed. Alpine coasters are typically limited to around 40 to 45 km/h, depending on the installation.

Classic summer toboggan runs often operate only in dry weather. Many alpine coasters are designed for all-weather use and remain open in light rain. Conditions vary between attractions, so it is best to check directly with the operator before your visit.

Many alpine coasters operate throughout the year. Opening times may vary depending on weather conditions, snow cover and maintenance work.

Austria offers a wide range of options, from classic summer toboggan runs such as the Grünberg-Flitzer in Gmunden, Upper Austria, and the Ossiach Summer Toboggan Run in Carinthia to spectacular alpine coasters including the Alpine Coaster Imst in Tirol and the Rittisberg Coaster in Ramsau, Styria.

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