Sledding and sun in Oberperfuss

In Tyrol, it's not winter without snow, and especially not without Rodel, the classic and traditional wooden toboggan. If you've never experienced the thrill of a downhill run on a Rodel, the Rangger Köpfl ski area in Oberperfuss is absolutely perfect for getting started. And even if you are a die-hard toboggan runner, you won't get bored on the Rangger Köpfl.

One of the longest runs in the region

At 9.3 km in total length, the Oberperfuss toboggan run is one of the longest in all of Tyrol. It is divided into three sections, all of which can be reached comfortably by gondola!

The little one of the house and I parked a few meters from the entrance to the lifts, in the village of Oberperfuss, which can be quickly reached by car from Innsbruck in only 15 to 20 minutes, or by transport. We brought the toboggan from home, but it can be rented either in front of the ticket office or at the first intermediate station. The first section was closed that day, due to poor snowfall at low altitude, but the other two had really good conditions. We took the three gondolas all the way up to the top of Rangger Köpfl mountain, at an elevation of 2,000 m, and were literally enchanted by the magnificent view of the snow-capped mountains and the Inn River valley. A true spectacle!

The first part of the toboggan run is a joy to behold: just snow, sunshine, turquoise sky and peace. Truly rejuvenating after a busy week! Suitable even for beginners and the timid, in several sections it is almost flat, to the point where we had to walk a few meters. After about 2 km we arrived in the woods, and met the first hut where it is possible to take a break: Rosskogelhütte. We continued on, and shortly afterwards the first section of the trail ends.

Arriving at the middle station between the Peter Anich II and III gondolas, we could not help but take a break at the Sulzstich hut, which is about a hundred meters below, has a small playground and is completely sunny at lunchtime (this is January). Suitably refreshed, we continued through the woods on the second section of the toboggan run to the midway station where there is the Stiglreith hut, a playground and a small magic carpet for skiing beginners. For those who are willing and energetic, it is, of course, possible to go down the slope several times! We enjoyed some more sunshine at the playground and returned to the valley by gondola.

Useful information

The Rangger Köpfl ski area can be reached from Innsbruck via the highway in the direction of Bregenz, exiting at Kematen and following the signs for Oberperfuss. Ample free parking is provided. Both in the valley, right in front of the ticket office, and at the first intermediate station (at Sport Haider) sleds can be rented for €10. The toboggans are two-seater.

Sledding on the slope requires a few tricks regarding equipment: you need snow gear, including gloves (which you'll need to assist with turning turns!), ski goggles, possibly a helmet, and above all, warm, durable snow boots (your feet are your brake and your steering wheel!).

For the die-hards, every Tuesday and Friday you can sled at night on the lighted slope, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.!