Gliding through the winter forest - cross-country skiing in Altenberg
Cross-country skiing
Pure cross-country skiing awaits you in the Altenberg vacation region: on an extensive network of approx. 80 kilometers (classic & skating) you will find trails of all levels of difficulty - from leisurely circular trails to challenging tours. Numerous ski trails invite you to go on a quiet, nature-loving discovery tour at weekends and when the snow conditions are good. Starting points such as the central cross-country ski trail parking lot in Zinnwald-Georgenfeld make it easy - and groomed trails guarantee the best skiing fun.
Our circular trails
Our ski trails
Our tip for all winter sports fans
- Trail and piste reports, snow conditions, ski lift opening times, etc.
- Park and weather information
- Tips from the Altenberg vacation region
- Opening hours of tourist facilities
- Important information
You can conveniently download our daily news as a PDF, whether at home or on the move.
What is the difference between a cross-country ski trail and a ski hiking trail?
A ski hiking trail exists if it is recognizable and passable as a trail and is also clearly signposted and shown on maps. As a rule, a ski trail is only groomed if the demand for use is very high and the operator has the opportunity to do so.
Visitors are not entitled to this.
A look behind the scenes of cross-country ski trail preparation
"You don't make a cross-country ski trail in five minutes. You first compact the snow with the chain. There are two different options here. At the beginning of the season, you start with a rubber track. This is particularly suitable for lower snow depths. If there is sufficient snow cover, the aluminum track is used later. This is followed by the tiller, which can penetrate up to 8 cm deep into the snow. However, the deeper the tiller goes, the longer it takes for the snow to freeze again. This shreds and distributes the snow to create a base surface. You can then use the finisher board to start preparing the final track. It creates the many small grooves, which are a particularly good surface for skaters. The track plate (with ripper) is then lowered to complete the track. This creates the familiar double track in the snow.
The art of a perfect trail needs to be learned. It requires good instruction in the equipment, calmness and a certain eye for detail. In addition, the interaction between skier, machine, weather, snow type and temperature must be right. Deciding how and when to do what depends on the individual factors and is a real challenge, as the snow and weather are different every day. Ultimately, however, it comes down to experience and practice over several years."
Voluntary cross-country ski trail contribution
It is possible to pay a voluntary cross-country ski trail contribution at the Altenberg Tourist Information Office. This contribution is used to provide you with freshly groomed cross-country ski trails and ski hiking trails every day.
Without all the (volunteer) cross-country bully and snowmobile drivers, who provide us with 1A trails year after year, sliding on the boards would not be possible. A huge thank you for this great work and of course to all the other helpers, such as the volunteer fire departments and the colleagues from the Biathlon Sparkassen-Arena who are always on hand with help and advice.
We wish you an unforgettable winter vacation in the Altenberg vacation region.
1. consideration for others
All cross-country skiers must behave in such a way that they do not endanger or harm others.
2. signaling, running direction and running technique
Markings and signals (signs) must be observed. On cross-country ski trails and pistes, you must ski in the direction and using the technique indicated.
3. choice of track and piste
On double and multiple tracks, you must ski in the right-hand track. Cross-country skiers in groups must ski one behind the other in the right-hand lane. In free technique, skiers must ski on the right-hand side of the piste.
4. overtaking
Overtaking is permitted on the right or left. The runner in front does not have to give way, but should do so if it is safe to do so.
5. oncoming traffic
In the event of encounters, everyone must give way to the right. The descending cross-country skier has priority.
6. pole guidance
Poles must be held close to the body when overtaking, being overtaken and during encounters.
7. adapting your speed to the conditions
All cross-country skiers must adapt their speed and behavior to their ability, the terrain conditions, traffic density and visibility, especially on downhill stretches. They must maintain a sufficient safety distance from the skier in front. If necessary, they must drop down to prevent a collision.
8. keeping the trails and pistes clear
Anyone who stops must leave the trail/piste. A fallen cross-country skier must clear the trail/piste as quickly as possible.
9. assistance
In the event of an accident, everyone is obliged to provide assistance.
10. duty of identification
Everyone, whether witness or participant, whether responsible or not, must provide their personal details in the event of an accident.
Source: www.stiftung.ski



