Winter in Kleinwalsertal: 7 Activities We're Already Looking Forward To

The first snow is settling on the peaks, the crisp mountain air makes you want to get moving, and anticipation for the winter season is building throughout the valley. The Kleinwalsertal is a winter paradise for anyone who enjoys being outdoors—whether you’re hitting the slopes, gliding along a cross-country trail, or taking a leisurely stroll on a winter hiking trail.

One Swing at a Time Toward Winter Bliss 1. Skiing

When the first freshly groomed slopes beckon, there’s no stopping many people. Skiing is simply part of winter in the Kleinwalsertal. In the Oberstdorf-Kleinwalsertal cross-border ski region, more than 130 kilometers of slopes, over 70 runs, and 48 lifts await you. Whether you’re looking for leisurely runs, challenging turns, or your first attempts on skis - there are options for every skill level.

What makes it especially beautiful: the mountain scenery is always part of the experience. As you ride the lift up, breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks unfold before you. And for those who love to try new things, the ski area also offers a variety of fun parks, including the Crystal Family Snowparks.

For us, skiing in the Kleinwalsertal means fresh mountain air, exercise, and that special feeling when you nail your first turn of the season.

Tip: Starting in the 2026/27 winter season, the new Walmendingerhornbahn will take you even faster and more comfortably to an altitude of nearly 2,000 meters!

Discover the Joy of Skiing

Step by step through the snowy landscape 2. Winter Hiking

Sometimes you don’t need skis to fully experience winter. Winter hiking is a bit more low-key - and that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. The snow crunches under your feet, the air is crisp, and the snow-covered landscape reveals its particularly serene side.

In the Kleinwalsertal, more than 50 kilometers of groomed winter hiking trails are waiting to be discovered. They lead through the villages in the valley, along the Breitach River, or up to high-altitude trails with spectacular views. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a longer hike, the winter hiking trails offer a variety of ways to experience nature at your own pace.

Our tip: The winter loop trail on the Gottesacker, at just under 2,000 meters above sea level, is the highest winter hiking trail. The trail is accessible via the Ifen Cable Car and leads from the mountain station along the groomed panoramic loop trail. Don’t forget: Just stop for a moment, take a deep breath, and enjoy the silence!

Winterwandern

On the Road to Recovery 3. Cross-country skiing

If you’re looking to combine exercise and relaxation on your winter vacation, you should try cross-country skiing. On narrow skis, you’ll glide through the snow-covered landscape, find your rhythm, and leave the stresses of everyday life behind, one step at a time.

The Kleinwalsertal offers around 50 kilometers of cross-country trails. The trails feature both classic and skating styles and vary in difficulty - ideal for beginners as well as experienced cross-country skiers. Among the well-known trails are the Schwendeloipe in Riezlern, the Steinbockloipe in Mittelberg, and the Schwarzwasserloipe in Wäldele.

What makes it especially appealing is that the trails lead you through quiet winter landscapes. As you carve your own path, snow-covered forests and impressive mountain views accompany you. Cross-country skiing is a full-body workout, but also a wonderful way to find peace and quiet outdoors.

Never been on cross-country skis before? No problem: lessons and rental options in the valley make it easy to get started.

Out on the cross-country ski trail

Make Way for Winter Fun 4. Tobogganing

A toboggan run and a sled make for a whole lot of fun—sometimes that’s all it takes for a truly great winter day. Tobogganing is a blast for kids and adults alike.

In the Kleinwalsertal, several tobogganing options await you. There are a total of six toboggan runs, as well as the Allgäu Coaster. On some runs, lifts or magic carpets make the climb easier. If you don’t bring your own sled, you can rent one at sports shops in the valley.

Whether with family, friends, or just on a whim: sledding gets you moving, is fun, and brings back a little bit of childhood.

Tip: Check our mountain sports report in advance to see which sledding hills are open and what the conditions are like on-site. Then nothing will stand in the way of your winter fun.

Tobogganing for All Ages

Spins, first steps, and lots of fun 5. Ice Skating

Skates instead of skis - you can also enjoy winter wonderfully on the ice in the Kleinwalsertal. At the ice rink in Riezlern, you can take your first steps, practice elegant turns, or simply skate a few laps. If you’re already confident on your skates, you can put your skills to the test and pick up the pace.

Ice skating is especially enjoyable because it’s so easy to fit into a winter day. Whether with friends, as a family outing, or as a little change of pace after a day on the slopes: a few laps on the ice provide some exercise and put you in a good mood.

Skates can be rented on-site - so you don’t necessarily have to bring your own gear.

And who knows - maybe you’ll master a new spin this winter?

Ice Skating

Discover the Quiet Side of Winter 6. Snowshoe Hike

Away from the slopes and groomed trails, a winter world all its own awaits. With snowshoes, you can experience the snow-covered mountain landscape in a particularly immersive way. Every step takes you deeper into nature - past snow-covered trees, quiet valleys, and impressive rock formations.

Our experience-shop offers guided snowshoe tours where you’ll hike through wintry landscapes with experienced guides who’ll share fascinating insights. One tour, for example, leads from the Auenhütte toward the Schwarzwassertal valley and Melköde. Along the way, you’ll discover a varied landscape featuring boulders and the Schwarzwasserbach stream.

Snowshoeing is an experience for anyone who enjoys experiencing winter mindfully and at a leisurely pace. It’s important to respect nature: Stay on designated trails and observe wildlife quiet zones as well as forest and wildlife conservation areas. The code of conduct from our “Natur Bewusst Erleben” initiative provides guidance on this.

Snowshoe Tours at the Adventure Shop

Winding Down a Winter Day 7. Après-Ski

A perfect winter day deserves a festive ending. After your last runs on the slopes, a winter hike, or a day in the snow, the Kleinwalsertal offers the perfect opportunity to get together, listen to music, and toast to the beautiful moments.

A regular gathering spot is the Schneemanntreff every Tuesday at the town square in Riezlern: Live music and DJ sets set the mood, and food and drinks are available.

Whether it’s live DJs at the Plattform Kleinwalsertal right next to the Kanzelwandbahn in Riezlern, winter events at the Auenhütte near the Ifen valley station, or the Feuerzangenbowle at the ice rink - in the Kleinwalsertal, there are many atmospheric ways to wind down a winter day.

Events in the Kleinwalsertal Valley

A Winter Full of Possibilities

The Kleinwalsertal shows just how varied a winter vacation can be. Take your first turns on the slopes, enjoy the peace and quiet on winter hiking trails, find your own rhythm on the cross-country ski trails, or share a laugh while tobogganing and ice skating - every day can bring a new winter adventure.

And as the day slowly comes to a close, cozy places to stop for a bite and convivial après-ski moments await. It’s precisely this blend of activity, nature, and shared experiences that makes winter in the Kleinwalsertal so special.

We’re already looking forward to the crunch of snow under our shoes, crisp mountain air, and many unforgettable winter moments. So, are you ready for winter?