In the Kitzsteinhorn glacier area, not all parts of the mountain are snowy and frozen, so there are also playgrounds for children and hiking trails. Of course, it might snow on the summit even in summer, but if the weather is nice, you can go on wonderful trails in the heart of nature.
One of the popular attractions in the glacier area is the viewing platform called Gipfelwelt 3000. This viewing platform is located at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters above sea level.
In this article, you can read about 3 fun attractions for the whole family in the glacier area. To reach them, you will need to ascend to the mountain’s summit using the cable cars.
Gipfelwelt 3000 Viewing Platforms
If you want to see the Salzburgerland region from above, these viewing platforms are the best for it. At the top of the Kitzsteinhorn mountain, there are two viewing platforms that jut out a few meters from the mountain’s surface. One platform is called Top of Salzburg and the other is the Nationalpark Gallery. These viewing platforms are the highest in the Salzburgerland region, located at an altitude of 3,029 meters above sea level. From this point, you can see dozens of snowy mountain peaks and, of course, look out to the summit of the formidable Grossglockner mountain.
You can easily reach the viewing platform using the cable cars that operate even in the summer. Keep in mind that the ascent to the summit platform involves riding 3 different cable cars and a special alpine lift. Navigating the site is very easy, and with the ticket you purchase at the valley station, you can go all the way to the top. Be aware that it takes about 45 minutes from the valley to reach the summit.
When you reach the top, you can, of course, enjoy the view from the observation decks or stop for a light meal at the on-site restaurant. The restaurant offers excellent views without the cold wind. If you want to learn about the ambitious project of conquering the summit and about the nature in the area, there is a small museum located inside the tunnel that leads to the Nationalpark Gallery viewing platform.
This is the view you can see from these platforms:
If you plan to go to the viewing platform, it’s a good idea to check the visibility conditions on that day, so you don’t go up for nothing. You can check the forecast and see the webcams broadcasting from the summit.
Alpine Playgrounds for Children
At the Gletschermühle restaurant complex, at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level, there is an experiential play area for children. The children can jump, slide, and swing while you sit at the restaurant, enjoying a hot coffee and the beautiful view. Of course, the restaurant is right next to the playground, so you can always keep an eye on the children.
Another playground is located at Langwiedboden on the way to the mountain summit. This playground has various wooden structures and water games. The children can play in the stream water and on the various equipment while you sit in the designated seating areas set up nearby.
The playgrounds are open from July to mid-September (depending on weather conditions).
Summer Snow Sledding – The Ice Arena
If your children feel like playing in the snow, you can do so right at the top of the glacier. You can borrow sleds for free and slide quickly down the slope, or build a snowman and have a snowball fight. It’s hard to imagine that this is summer in Austria, but that’s the beauty of the Alps!
Additional Essential Information for Visiting the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier
Information on Cable Car Operations
Prices for ascent and descent by cable car to the Top of Salzburg viewing platform:
- Adult: €57.50
- Youth (16-18): €43
- Child (6-15): €28.50
Please note: If you arrive after 11:30 AM, there is a possibility of a discount of about €5 per ticket.
There is a €2 deposit for the ticket. When you return to the valley station, there is a machine for returning the tickets and getting the deposit back.
More information on cable car prices
Address: Kesselfallstraße 60, 5710 Kaprun
Map:
Other Attractions in the Kitzsteinhorn Area
The Kitzsteinhorn glacier is surrounded by a variety of fun and highly recommended attractions. With a short drive, you can visit 5 other particularly enjoyable attractions.
- The Kitzsteinhorn mountain is also connected to the Maiskogel mountain, where you’ll find the thrilling mountain coaster and a nature park for the whole family. Maiskogel is a 10-minute drive from the glacier area. You can read more in our detailed article about this mountain.
- The famous Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs are located right next to the cable car station for the glacier summit. It’s a good idea to combine these places if you are planning a trip to the area.
- Another place located a 10-minute drive away is the Sigmund Thun Gorge, a great place for a walk in nature on a stunningly beautiful trail.
- If you’ve hiked enough and the hot sun has made you want to cool off in cold mountain water, you can pop over to Lake Zell near Zell am See and refresh yourself in its clear waters. The lake is about a 25-minute drive away.
- For those who prefer warm water, a great option is to drive just 20 minutes from the glacier’s cable car base station to the modern spa located near the town of Kaprun. This spa is called Tauern Spa and is considered one of the most modern in Austria.
