Hochkönig Card

Trail running on the Hochkönig
in alpine terrain

Whether road, forest path or alpine trail, you can actually run anywhere with a little training. At the peak of emotions, however, there is a particularly sporty way to conquer the alpine regions. Trail running on the Hochkönig takes you over hill and dale on tricky terrain.

Steep paths, steep inclines and extremely narrow trails pose challenges even for experienced running professionals, but reward them with fantastic views. The Hochkönig is considered a top trail running destination with an abundance of running laps as well as some of the most popular competitions in the country.

Trail running on the Hochkönig in alpine terrain

The unique aura of the Hochkönig trails

However, before heading out onto open terrain, it is worth taking a look at the standard slope rules. These apply to all winter sports enthusiasts on groomed slopes, are based on mutual consideration, and ensure greater safety for everyone. Please note the following points, among others:

  • Check your equipment and warm up before starting.
  • Helmets are mandatory until the age of 15. In general, all winter sports enthusiasts should wear helmets, as they can save lives.
  • Mutual consideration is a must. Your driving style must not endanger others.
  • Adapt your driving style and speed to your own abilities.
  • When overtaking, always keep your distance and choose a lane that does not endanger other winter sports enthusiasts.
  • Anyone ascending or descending on foot must do so exclusively at the edge of the slope.
  • Never stop in places with poor visibility and, if you fall, move away from the danger zone as quickly as possible.
  • In the event of an accident, everyone is obliged to provide assistance. Witnesses and those involved are required to provide identification.
  • It is essential to pay attention to markings and signals.

The avalanche report

However, if winter adventures lie off-piste, then a little more preparation time is needed. Freeriders and ski tourers in particular need to prepare more extensively for their day in the Alps. On the one hand, signs, notices, and information on site—for example, at lift stations—must be observed carefully. On the other hand, it is essential to read the avalanche report carefully. It provides detailed information on the current avalanche risk, analyzes the snow situation, and points out other danger areas. Among other things, it contains the following information:

  • General data on the weather and its impact on the avalanche situation
  • The composition of the snowpack with indications of possible weak layers
  • The precise assessment based on the five-point scale valid throughout Europe (low to very high)
  • Information on regional characteristics and specific avalanche risks
  • Recommendations for behavior and trends for the further development of the avalanche situation

The current avalanche report can be viewed at lawine.salzburg.at.

The right avalanche safety equipment

Regardless of the current warning level, which must be observed at all times, all winter sports enthusiasts should carry avalanche safety equipment when skiing off-piste. This ensures that you are prepared in the event of an accident, can minimize the impact, and guide rescuers to your location more quickly. Basic equipment includes:

  • Avalanche transceiver: The avalanche transceiver is worn close to the body so that it can be activated in an emergency and sends signals to a locator device.
  • Shovel: It is sturdy and not too heavy, so that you can dig quickly if necessary.
  • Probe: Avalanche probes are absolutely essential for locating buried victims.
  • Airbag backpack: Avalanche backpacks can reduce the depth of burial or even prevent burial altogether. It is essential to test the mechanism so that it can be deployed quickly in an emergency.
  • First aid kits: Emergency equipment treats minor wounds, stabilizes injuries, and makes transport easier.
  • Maps: Whether printed out, as a GPS tracker and altimeter, or on your smartphone—orientation aids are a must.
  • Inform: Not equipment per se, but still important—always let your family, friends, or host know where you plan to be and when.

Important: Test your equipment before you set off! Many places have their own training areas and courses where you can familiarize yourself with avalanche safety equipment.

Safety always comes first, both on and off the slopes. We recommend that you always check the latest avalanche report at the start of the day. We will be happy to provide you with tips for safe, leisurely slopes and exciting tours at the Sonnenhof. We look forward to your winter visit and will be happy to receive your non-binding inquiry.

Copyright photos: unsplash.com/angelbalashev & unsplash.com/vbk_media

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