Ski Arlberg: Austria's Largest Connected Ski Area Boasts 305km of Groomed Slopes
Ski Arlberg, Austria's largest connected ski area, boasts an impressive 305 kilometers of groomed slopes and 200 kilometers of freeride terrain, spread over 50 square kilometers. The region's history in winter sports dates back to the 1884 opening of the Arlberg Railway, making it more accessible for enthusiasts.
The 'White Ring', a legendary 22-kilometer ski circuit within Ski Arlberg, features a total elevation change of 5,500 meters. The current record for the 'White Ring Race', launched in 2005/06 to celebrate the route's 50th anniversary, stands at around 44 minutes and 10 seconds, held by Markus Weiskopf. Beyond the main areas, Ski Arlberg includes smaller ski resorts in the Lechtal valley, such as Jöchlspitze, Stanzach ski lifts, Gföllberg lift, Knittel ski lifts, and Sonnenkopf resort.
The ski area offers extensive infrastructure, including Funslope am Galzig, Stanton Park, Rendl Race, and a natural toboggan run. The longest descent in Ski Arlberg is 'The White Rush', a nine-kilometer route dropping 1,350 meters. The regions were fully connected in 2016/17 with the construction of the Flexenbahn gondola, creating three main sections: Ski Arlberg East, Ski Arlberg West, and Snow World Warth-Schröcken. The highest point in the ski area is the Valluga summit, reaching 2,811 meters.
Ski Arlberg's extensive terrain, legendary routes like the 'White Ring', and impressive infrastructure make it a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Despite the 'White Ring Race' being launched in 2005/06, information on subsequent winners could not be found.