Cross-country trails ranging from easy to difficult

In the Olympic region of Leutasch-Seefeld-Scharnitz, cross-country skiing enthusiasts have access to around 300 kilometres of perfectly groomed trails. But which trails are suitable for whom? Host Christian Wandl explains the clear system of colours and signage.

Hello Christian, what do the trail colours mean?

In Tyrol, all cross-country trails that carry the state's seal of approval use a uniform marking system. This is based on the markings used for ski slopes, meaning that blue stands for easy trails, red for medium-difficulty trails and black for difficult trails. Now you probably want to know what the designations mean. How easy is easy and what does difficult mean? This is precisely defined:

• The blue-marked, easy trails are perfect for beginners and children who are trying cross-country skiing for the first time. The blue trails are flat with a maximum gradient of ten per cent. In addition, the downhill sections are visible from start to finish, and there are no bends or particular challenges. The blue trails are also ideal for leisurely cross-country skiers. Here you can enjoy the natural surroundings while exercising at a leisurely pace. Incidentally, around 90 per cent of the trails in the wide Leutasch Valley are ideal for beginners.
• Cross-country skiers should already have some experience before tackling the red, moderately difficult trails. These routes lead up and down undulating terrain; gradients of up to 20 per cent are a physical challenge. Short sections can also be a little steeper, and classic trails also include curves. You should therefore be confident on your cross-country skis before tackling a red trail.
• Black trails should really only be attempted by those who are very athletic and experienced. The ascents and descents exceed 20 per cent. True experts will find a few particularly challenging black trails in Leutasch, the highlight being, of course, the World Championship trail. Biathletes are also in exactly the right place here!

Where are the signs and what do they say?
Signs or poles in the respective colour are always mounted to the right of the trail and no more than 500 metres apart. Appropriate signs are of course also posted at intersections and junctions to facilitate orientation. You can also see whether the trail is groomed for classic skiing and/or prepared for skating. Most kilometres of trails are suitable for both styles. Each sign shows the name of the trail, the number, the distance in kilometres and the alpine emergency number.

What does the orange marking mean and what other information is there?
In Tyrol, ski touring trails are marked with orange paint. These are not used for cross-country skiing, but for alpine skiing. Furthermore, ski touring trails are not groomed like cross-country trails. However, it is important to note that all marked trails, whether cross-country or ski touring, are protected against avalanches. This is particularly important to know, as the danger of avalanches is very real in alpine areas. Using safe trails protects not only yourself, but also all mountain rescuers who may need to come to your aid in an emergency.

However, there are other dangers such as very steep gradients, road crossings or closures. These are marked with black and yellow signs and corresponding symbols, as you would expect to see on a ski slope. They are just as important and binding as road signs!

Can your guests access the cross-country ski trail directly in front of the Leutascherhof?
Yes, it starts 200 metres from our front door! Cross-country skiers can explore the whole of Leutasch from here. As a special treat, the cross-country ski pass is included in the price for stays of one week or more. 
We also offer free skiing technique training, waxing courses and guided cross-country skiing tours. As you know, cross-country skiing is our passion and we are happy to share this passion with our guests.

From mid-November to early April, all signs point to cross-country skiing in Leutasch: Send your non-binding holiday enquiry now!