Current avalanche conditions

The avalanche conditions in Grossarl and Hüttschlag are a key factor for all winter sports—for skiers and snowboarders on the slopes as well as for ski tourers, freeriders, and winter hikers. The current avalanche danger is assessed daily by the Salzburg Avalanche Warning Service, which publishes the avalanche report every day at 5:00 p.m.

For visitors and locals alike, this report provides an objective basis for accurately assessing the snowpack, potential danger zones, and personal risk. The information also helps in adjusting tours appropriately, identifying safe areas, and recognizing warning signs early on.

At the same time, it is important to note: Avalanche safety is guaranteed on open, controlled slopes in Grossarltal. Conditions become dangerous outside of secured areas—here, the daily avalanche situation plays a decisive role.

The current avalanche conditions are described using the European Avalanche Danger Scale (1 to 5). It is based on three key factors:

• Stability of the snowpack (e.g., weak layers, drift snow packs)
• Frequency of unstable areas in the terrain
• Potential size of an avalanche

Each danger level is accompanied by clear recommendations for behavior, which are described in detail in the official Salzburg Avalanche Report.

Safe tour planning always starts with checking the avalanche report. It takes into account:

• the current danger level
• avalanche conditions (e.g., fresh snow, drift snow, gliding snow)
• snowpack and snowpack structure
• slope gradient and aspect
• weather, wind, and temperature trends
• on-site observations (e.g., “thud” sounds, cracks, fresh drift snow)
• Information from the Grossarl / Grossarltal area
• Current information from the ski patrol or mountain rescue

Anyone planning off-piste tours must be able to assess the slope gradient: Slopes of 30 degrees or more are considered avalanche-prone. Critical amounts of fresh snow, wind, and rising temperatures are important parameters for risk assessment.


In the event of a high avalanche risk, it is recommended that you:

• opt for flatter routes
• start your tour early
• choose a route based on its exposure
• stay on secured slopes if in doubt

The following also applies to skiers and snowboarders in the ski resort:

• Strictly observe closures, warnings, and slope markings.
• Uncontrolled freeride areas should only be accessed by those with appropriate experience and complete emergency equipment.

Fresh Snow
Freshly fallen snow often bonds poorly with the old snowpack. There is an increased risk until the fresh snow has settled.

Drift Snow
Wind transports snow and deposits it in hollows, gullies, and behind terrain edges. These drifts are often unstable and difficult to detect.

Old Snow
Weak layers in old snow can remain active for a long time. They lead to unexpected and sometimes large slab avalanches.

Crevasses
Clearly visible crevasses indicate areas of high stress. Slopes below such crevasses should be avoided.

Wet snow
Rain or rising temperatures cause the snowpack to lose its strength. Wet snow avalanches are particularly common in the spring.

Safe winter backcountry travel requires thorough preparation, appropriate gear, and a keen eye for warning signs. By accurately assessing risks in the terrain and acting quickly in an emergency, you can prevent avalanche accidents—or save lives.

You must carry this emergency equipment with you:

• Avalanche transceiver (batteries fully charged?)
• Shovel
• Probe
• Avalanche airbag (optional)
• First aid kit
• Thermal clothing
• Touring map, digital navigation
• Fully charged cell phone
• Bivouac sack

Before every tour:

1. Self-check
2. Group check
3. Range check


Only a functioning avalanche transceiver system enables a successful rescue of a fellow skier.

Avalanche accidents occur particularly frequently on slopes with:

• A gradient steeper than 30°
• Convex terrain features
• Wind drifts
• A thin snowpack over a hard base

Additional strain (e.g., multiple people on the slope at the same time) significantly increases the risk.

The following are considered warning signs:

• fresh cracks
• “boom” sounds
• settlement
• recent avalanches
• drift snow accumulations

Anyone who notices such signs should immediately adjust their route or turn back.

1. Assess the situation
2. Call 140 (Großarl or Hüttschlag Mountain Rescue)
3. Begin rescuing your companion
4. Locate the buried person (avalanche transceiver → probe → shovel)
5. Administer first aid

Speed is crucial: Every minute counts.

The Grossarltal-Dorfgastein ski area is continuously monitored and inspected.

The following applies to all guests:

• Avalanche safety is guaranteed on open slopes.
• Please strictly observe closures and warnings.
• Never ski on the edges of slopes, off-piste areas, or freeride zones without emergency equipment.
• After fresh snowfall and wind, some areas are particularly hazardous—be sure to follow the instructions of the ski patrol.

The ski patrol communicates hazardous conditions clearly and promptly.

Salzburg avalanche warning service
Website: lawine.salzburg.at
Hotline: +43 (0) 662 / 80422170

Grossarl and Hüttschlag mountain rescue
Emergency number: 140

Local tourist offices and the ski patrol and rescue services in the Großarl Valley also provide advice and up-to-date information.