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Hahnenkamm

4.8
·158 reviews·Kitzbuhel, Austria

Legendary Austrian peak famed for the treacherous Streif ski race and stunning alpine vistas, offering adventure year-round.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-January

Hahnenkamm Races buzz

CrowdHigh
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Hahnenkamm - Image 1

Hahnenkamm

Best Time

Mid-January

Hahnenkamm Races buzz

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Legendary Austrian peak famed for the treacherous Streif ski race and stunning alpine vistas, offering adventure year-round.

4.8
(158 reviews)

"The Hahnenkamm is a mountain in Europe, directly southwest of Kitzbühel in the Kitzbühel Alps of Austria."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Race Tickets Early

Hahnenkamm races sell out fast! Book tickets months in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:

Dress Warmly in Winter

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Layers are key for staying comfortable during winter visits. :cloud:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Streif Downhill Course

The Streif Downhill Course

Hahnenkamm Mountain

The legendary Streif: the most demanding downhill ski course in the world. Feel the adrenaline!

Hahnenkamm Summit Views

Hahnenkamm Summit Views

Hahnenkamm Summit

Panoramic views of the Kitzbühel Alps and Wilder Kaiser Massif. Breathtaking!

Kitzbühel Town Atmosphere

Kitzbühel Town Atmosphere

Kitzbühel

Charming alpine town buzzing with energy, especially during race week. Experience Austrian hospitality.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Hahnenkamm Races

The Hahnenkamm races draw massive crowds. If you're visiting for the event, book accommodation and tickets months in advance. Expect higher prices and significant crowds, especially on race days. Consider visiting just before or after the main event for a more relaxed experience.

Summer vs. Winter: What to Expect

Hahnenkamm transforms from a world-renowned ski mecca to a hiker's paradise in summer. While the famous Streif downhill course is a must-see for ski enthusiasts, summer offers stunning alpine vistas and challenging hikes. Pack layers for both seasons, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

Best Times

When
Mid-January
Why
Hahnenkamm Races buzz
Crowd
High
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Hiking & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Early April
Why
Late season skiing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Kitzbühel 2024 @hahnenkammrennen #hkr2024 #wintersport #hahnenkammrennen
@aditotoro
176.8K likes • 1.1M views

Book Race Tickets Early

Hahnenkamm races sell out fast! Book tickets months in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:

Dress Warmly in Winter

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Layers are key for staying comfortable during winter visits. :cloud:

@xtinequinn
15.3K likes • 422K views
One of many challenging sections climbing up and down over the crazy towers of Hahnenkamm between Reichenspitze (3303m) and Wildgerlosspitze (3280m). I had seen this ridge four years ago when climbing Reichenspitze and wondered if it was possible. A forum thread said it’s a V, but you barely find any info about the climb on the internet, so we just decided to go pioneering a bit and tried it. We w...
germanadventurer
8K likes • 459.3K views

Consider Off-Peak for Skiing

Skiing during the Hahnenkamm races means huge crowds. Visit just before or after for better slopes. :snow_cloud:

Hike to the Summit

In summer, hike from Kitzbühel to the summit for amazing views. Cable car down is an option! :hiking_boot:

The Hahnenkamm is one of the most famous and challenging ski races in the world. It takes place annually in Kitzbühel, Austria, and is part of the Alpine Ski World Cup. The highlight of the event is the Streif—a legendary downhill course known for its extreme difficulty, steep slopes, jumps, icy terrain, and speeds reaching up to 90 mph (145 km/h). Winning here is a huge honor for any skier—it’s ...
fluorinated.crack
919 likes • 14K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Race Tickets Early

Hahnenkamm races sell out fast! Book tickets months in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:

Dress Warmly in Winter

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Layers are key for staying comfortable during winter visits. :cloud:

Consider Off-Peak for Skiing

Skiing during the Hahnenkamm races means huge crowds. Visit just before or after for better slopes. :snow_cloud:

Hike to the Summit

In summer, hike from Kitzbühel to the summit for amazing views. Cable car down is an option! :hiking_boot:

Budget for Race Week

Visiting during the Hahnenkamm races can be expensive. Be prepared for higher costs for everything. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(158 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning alpine scenery and the thrilling atmosphere of the Hahnenkamm races. The challenging Streif course is a major draw for ski enthusiasts. However, the extreme popularity, especially during race week, leads to significant crowds and high costs, which can detract from the experience for some.

"How lucky to strike the exact dew days in early April to hit the slopes!! AAA location, will be back !"

Marko Martinoli

"The Hahnenkamm is a mountain in Europe, directly southwest of Kitzbühel in the Kitzbühel Alps of Austria. The elevation of its summit is 1,712 metres (5,617 ft) above sea level. The Hahnenkamm (German: rooster's comb) is part of the ski resort of Kitzbühel, and hosts an annual World Cup alpine ski race, the 'Hahnenkammrennen'. The most famous slope on the Hahnenkamm is the classic downhill course, the Streif (streak, or stripe), which is regarded as the most demanding race course on the World Cup circuit. The course features highly technical, 'fall-away' turns (reverse bank), many with limited visibility. It also contains several flat gliding sections, immediately preceded by difficult turns, placing a premium on both technical and gliding skills. A run on the mountain's northeast face, the Streif course, is mostly in the shade in January. It is usually overcast and coupled with fog, the result being 'flat' lighting which compounds the course's difficulty. The 'Hahnenkammrennen' are the annual races, held since 1931 and a fixture of the men's World Cup since its inception in the 1967 season. The races were originally held in March, and sometimes in early February (1949 & 1951). Beginning in 1953, the races at Kitzbühel have been held in mid to late January, often the week following the Lauberhorn in Wengen, Switzerland, another classic downhill. Since 1959, the race has been broadcast on Austrian television."

Ngo Hai Anh

"Thats what a great trip to hahnenkamm
To Day Whit My wife .
Brillant track from kaiserhof hotel to the top"

Lars Christian Stæhr Wolff (Wolffe)

What People Like

Spectacular mountain views
Thrilling race atmosphere
Challenging ski runs

What People Dislike

Extreme crowds during races
High prices
Icy conditions on Streif

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Hahnenkamm is by flying into Innsbruck Airport (INN) or Munich Airport (MUC) and then taking a train or bus to Kitzbühel. From Kitzbühel town, you can access the Hahnenkamm mountain via cable car or by hiking. Many visitors arrive during the Hahnenkamm races, so expect increased travel times and potential traffic congestion. Instagram

Yes, there are parking facilities available in Kitzbühel, especially near the cable car stations. However, during the Hahnenkamm races, parking can be extremely limited and expensive. It's advisable to use public transport or arrange for shuttle services if attending the event. Instagram

Absolutely! Kitzbühel is well-connected by train, and from the town, you can take local buses or the Hahnenkammbahn cable car to ascend the mountain. This is a popular and convenient option, especially during peak seasons. Instagram

Kitzbühel is a walkable town, and for getting up the mountain, the Hahnenkammbahn cable car is the primary mode of transport. During the Hahnenkamm races, shuttle services are often available to manage the influx of visitors. Instagram

While there aren't direct routes to the summit itself, major cities like Innsbruck and Munich offer train connections to Kitzbühel. From there, you'll need to utilize local transport to reach the Hahnenkamm mountain. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary depending on the season and event. For the Hahnenkamm races, tickets can be quite expensive and sell out quickly. During the summer, access to hiking trails is generally free, but cable car rides will have a fee. Instagram

Tickets for the Hahnenkamm races are best purchased directly from the official Hahnenkammrennen website or authorized ticket vendors well in advance. They are known to sell out rapidly. Instagram

Yes, there are typically various ticket options, including general admission for viewing areas and potentially VIP packages. The specific offerings can change annually, so check the official race website for details. Instagram

The Hahnenkammbahn cable car typically operates daily during the ski season and summer months. Operating hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the KitzSki website for the most up-to-date schedule. Instagram

While the Streif is a professional race course, parts of it are accessible to advanced skiers during the ski season when conditions permit. However, it's extremely challenging and not recommended for beginners. Instagram

🎫 ⛷️ Skiing & Winter Sports

Hahnenkamm is world-renowned for hosting the Hahnenkammrennen, one of the most challenging and prestigious alpine ski races, featuring the infamous Streif downhill course. TikTokInstagram

While KitzSki resort offers a wide range of slopes for all levels, the Hahnenkamm mountain itself, particularly the Streif, is extremely difficult and best suited for expert skiers. Beginners should stick to designated easier runs within the resort. Instagram

January typically brings cold temperatures and snow to Hahnenkamm, making it ideal for skiing. However, the Streif course can be icy and challenging due to its shaded location and variable weather. Instagram

During the Hahnenkamm downhill race, skiers can reach speeds of up to 90 mph (145 km/h) on the Streif course. Instagram

KitzSki boasts 233km of ski runs, including a good mix of blue, red, and black slopes, catering to all skill levels. Instagram

🎫 ☀️ Summer Activities

In summer, Hahnenkamm is a fantastic destination for hiking. You can hike to the summit for incredible views, or even walk down the Streif course. The surrounding Kitzbühel Alps offer numerous trails for all fitness levels. Instagram

Yes, in the summer, you can hike down the Streif course. It's a unique experience to walk the path of the world's most challenging ski run. Instagram

The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Kitzbühel Alps and the majestic Wilder Kaiser Massif. It's a rewarding experience after a hike or cable car ride. Instagram

Yes, there are typically mountain huts and restaurants at or near the Hahnenkamm summit where you can enjoy refreshments and local cuisine while taking in the views. Instagram

Many hiking trails around Hahnenkamm are suitable for families, with varying difficulty levels. The cable car also provides easy access to higher altitudes for those who prefer not to hike the entire way. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. During the races, the finish area and challenging sections of the Streif provide dramatic action shots. The charming town of Kitzbühel also offers picturesque scenes. TikTokInstagram

Photographing the Hahnenkamm races can be challenging due to crowds and the speed of the athletes. Capturing the intensity of the Streif requires good positioning and quick reflexes. TikTokInstagram

For winter, a wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for capturing race action from a distance. In summer, a versatile zoom lens can cover both landscapes and closer details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:

Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, during the Hahnenkamm races, there might be specific restrictions in certain zones for safety or media rights. Always be mindful of your surroundings. Instagram

For summit views, early morning or late afternoon 'golden hour' offers the best light. During the races, midday can be harsh, but the dramatic lighting on the Streif can also be compelling. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hahnenkamm offers a mixed bag for families. While the KitzSki resort has plenty of beginner-friendly slopes and ski schools for children during winter,Instagram the Hahnenkamm mountain itself, especially the Streif, is strictly for advanced skiers. During the Hahnenkamm races, the crowds can be overwhelming for young children. Reddit

In summer, hiking to the summit or taking the cable car up provides stunning views accessible to most families. There are also gentler walking paths around Kitzbühel. Consider focusing on the broader KitzSki area for skiing and exploring the charming town of Kitzbühel for a more family-friendly experience. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting Hahnenkamm during the Hahnenkamm races is generally not a budget-friendly endeavor. Accommodation and event tickets are significantly more expensive during this peak period. Instagram To save money, consider visiting outside of race week, perhaps in the shoulder seasons like early April for late-season skiing or during the summer for hiking. Instagram

Opting for self-catering accommodation or staying in nearby towns with better transport links can also help manage costs. Utilizing public transport for getting around Kitzbühel and to the mountain is usually more economical than relying on taxis or private transfers. Instagram

💑 Couples

Hahnenkamm offers a romantic alpine escape for couples. In winter, enjoy cozy evenings in Kitzbühel after a day on the slopes, perhaps even catching a glimpse of the thrilling Hahnenkamm races for an added dose of excitement. Instagram The charming town provides a picturesque backdrop for romantic strolls. Instagram

Summer presents an opportunity for scenic hikes together, with breathtaking views from the summit providing a perfect setting for shared moments. Enjoying a meal at a mountain hut with panoramic vistas is another delightful experience. Instagram Whether seeking adventure on the slopes or tranquility in nature, Hahnenkamm offers a memorable getaway for couples.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Infamous Streif: A Legend in Skiing

The Streif is more than just a ski slope; it's a legend. Known globally as the most demanding downhill course in the World Cup circuit, it tests the limits of even the most elite skiers. Its notorious sections include the Mausefalle (Mousetrap), a terrifyingly steep drop, and the Hausbergkante, a sharp, icy turn that has sent many racers tumbling. The course's combination of extreme gradients, icy patches, and high speeds makes it a true test of courage and skill. TikTokInstagram

During the Hahnenkammrennen, the atmosphere surrounding the Streif is electric. Spectators line the course, creating an unforgettable spectacle. The race is often held in mid-to-late January, with variable weather conditions like fog and flat lighting adding to the challenge. Instagram Even in summer, walking down the Streif offers a unique perspective on the sheer scale and difficulty of this iconic track. Instagram

While the Streif is the star, the Hahnenkamm mountain itself offers a vast ski area, KitzSki, with 233km of runs suitable for all levels. However, the Streif remains the ultimate challenge and a symbol of alpine skiing prowess. Instagram

Experiencing the Hahnenkamm Races

Attending the Hahnenkamm races in Kitzbühel is an experience like no other, but it requires careful planning. The event draws massive crowds, transforming the charming town into a hub of winter sports enthusiasts. InstagramReddit If you're aiming to witness the legendary Streif downhill, booking accommodation and tickets months in advance is crucial, as they sell out rapidly. Instagram

Be prepared for a significant influx of visitors, which means higher prices for accommodation, food, and drinks. Instagram Lift lines can also be longer than usual, and slopes may be more crowded. Reddit However, many visitors find the electrifying atmosphere and the thrill of watching world-class athletes compete on such a challenging course to be well worth the crowds and cost. TikTok

For those seeking a slightly less intense experience, consider visiting Kitzbühel the week before or after the main race events. You can still enjoy the winter wonderland and the excellent skiing at KitzSki without the peak race-day congestion. Instagram

Summer Adventures on Hahnenkamm

When the snow melts, Hahnenkamm transforms into a hiker's paradise. The mountain offers stunning alpine vistas and a network of trails catering to various fitness levels. A popular summer activity is hiking from Kitzbühel town to the Hahnenkamm summit. This challenging trek rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Kitzbühel Alps and the dramatic Wilder Kaiser Massif. Instagram

For a unique perspective, you can even hike down the Streif course in summer. It’s an incredible way to appreciate the sheer scale and steepness of the world-famous ski run. Alternatively, you can take the Hahnenkammbahn cable car up and enjoy a leisurely walk down. Instagram Mountain huts and restaurants near the summit offer a chance to rest, refuel, and soak in the magnificent scenery. Instagram

Summer at Hahnenkamm is perfect for those who love the outdoors and want to experience the Austrian Alps in a different light. It’s a great alternative for those who might find the winter race crowds overwhelming, offering a more serene yet equally spectacular mountain experience. Instagram

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