Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort Launches Digital Pass and Expands Slopes for a Better Ski Experience in 2025/26

Published on December 11, 2025

Schmittenhöhe Ski Resort in Zell am See, Austria, has officially launched its 2025/26 winter season, introducing a host of innovative new features aimed at enhancing the skiing experience for all guests. With a strong focus on digital convenience, family-friendliness, and sustainability, Schmittenhöhe is once again setting new standards for alpine tourism in Austria.

This season marks an exciting evolution for the Schmittenhöhe ski resort, with significant upgrades to both its infrastructure and guest experience. Among the most notable updates is the introduction of a 100% digital ski pass, which makes navigating the resort easier and more convenient than ever before. Other key innovations include expanded slopes, new beginner areas, family-oriented activities, and a variety of sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing the resort’s environmental footprint.

Digital Ski Pass: A Pioneering Step for Schmittenhöhe

Schmittenhöhe has partnered with the ALPIN CARD ticket network to become one of the first regions in the Alps to offer fully digital ski passes. Skiers and snowboarders can now purchase their tickets online or at the ticket counters and load them directly onto their smartphones. With Bluetooth-enabled functionality, the digital passes allow guests to pass through turnstiles without the need for a physical keycard. This new system reduces waiting times, increases convenience, and contributes to sustainability by cutting down on plastic use. The introduction of SKIDATA’s BLE technology ensures smooth operation, even during peak times.

This upgrade is part of Schmittenhöhe’s broader efforts to enhance the visitor experience while addressing the challenges of managing complex itineraries with numerous route and fare combinations. The digital pass makes booking simpler and provides a seamless skiing experience, benefiting both individual travelers and families.

Expanded Slopes and More Space on the Mountain

As part of a larger quality improvement initiative, Schmittenhöhe has expanded the Tannwald run, which is one of the resort’s most popular slopes. The first section of this expansion, completed in time for the 2025/26 winter season, provides more space for skiers and snowboarders, eliminating bottlenecks and improving safety on the slopes. Guests can now enjoy a smoother ride down the mountain, with more room for carving and freestyle activities. This work will continue in the coming years, ensuring the ski resort can accommodate more visitors without compromising on the quality of the experience.

Additionally, the resort has introduced a new beginner area designed to offer comfortable, safe skiing for those just starting their journey on the slopes. The “Schmidolin’s Magic Carpet”, a covered conveyor belt, provides a gentle introduction to skiing, allowing first-time skiers to easily reach the top of the beginner slope.

Family-Friendly Skiing: A Focus on Young Travelers

Schmittenhöhe continues to position itself as one of Austria’s most family-friendly ski destinations. The resort offers a range of family-oriented activities, including the Schmidolin’s Dragon Park, Kidsslope, and Funslope XXL Austria’s longest fun slope. These features are designed for young visitors and families, with interactive games and playful slopes that make skiing fun for children. The resort is committed to making skiing enjoyable for all ages, and the Funslope XXL adds an exciting element of adventure for kids and adults alike.

For families seeking dining and relaxation options, the Areit 1400 Children’s Restaurant provides a comfortable, child-friendly space with a buffet at child height, offering healthy and freshly prepared meals that cater to young tastes. While the children are enjoying their meals, parents can unwind in the nearby AreitAlm or AreitLounge with culinary offerings that feature local specialties and international dishes.

Embracing Sustainability on the Slopes

Schmittenhöhe is also committed to reducing its environmental impact through sustainability initiatives. The resort has been EMAS validated for 10 years, making it a pioneering force in sustainable alpine tourism. The resort is powered by 100% renewable electricity, and it has earned the Austrian Ecolabel for three of its restaurants. These efforts reflect Schmittenhöhe’s broader goal of reducing its carbon footprint while continuing to provide world-class service to its visitors.

The resort is also dedicated to sustainability in its waste management, water-saving initiatives, and the use of local products in its food and beverage offerings. Schmittenhöhe’s commitment to sustainable tourism not only benefits the environment but also provides guests with the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Austrian Alps in a responsible and eco-friendly way.

A Cultural and Event-Driven Experience: “Schmitten Sound – Mountain. Music. Emotion.”

In addition to skiing, Schmittenhöhe offers an expanded event concept, “Schmitten Sound – Mountain. Music. Emotion.” This initiative introduces live music performances, including acts like Die Draufgänger, Die Mountain Crew, and Die Jungen Zillertaler, as well as international DJs such as VIMA and Chris Armada. These performances take place across the mountain—from mountain huts and restaurants to open-air stages. The New Year’s Eve party at 2,000 meters is one of the most anticipated events, adding a lively atmosphere to the festive season.

Looking to the Future: Growth and Innovation at Schmittenhöhe

With its continued investment in sustainable practices, family-oriented experiences, and innovative ski offerings, Schmittenhöhe remains a leader in alpine tourism. The resort’s commitment to improving the skiing experience and maintaining environmental responsibility will ensure that it remains one of the top ski destinations in Austria and Europe.