Ski openings are always something of a gamble. Even in a world of the ubiquitous snow cannon, nothing beats the feel of fresh snow under ski or board and the sight of distant snow-drenched peaks. Traditionally, Obergurgl is one of the very first, non-glacier ski areas in the Alps to open its slopes. With this comes the risk of opening with white strips of snow, intersecting the frozen granite. Finishing the 2018/19 season with mind-blowing snow depths in April, the coming season is following in the same vein with superb Autumn snow conditions in Obergurgl and Tirol generally.
Next week will see the early opening of Axamer Lizum above Innsbruck, the opening being brought forward by a week due to the impressive snowfall. And in the neighbouring valley, Kühtai is set to open at the end of the month. In the west of Austria, the Arlberg has seen plenty of snow and the ski opening at the end of November should deliver some fantastic conditions.
More snow is forecast for tomorrow and Sunday, so for those looking to get on the snow this weekend, the sunshine of Saturday may produce the finest of November riding. Christmas markets in Innsbruck Old Town are set to open tomorrow as well – forget any concept of autumn, winter is truly here.
Obergugl slopes during the 14th November ski opening:
