Streif (downhill course) - Image 1
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Streif

4.7
·1k reviews·Kitzbühel, Austria

The legendary Streif in Kitzbühel, home to the world's most dangerous downhill ski race. Experience extreme slopes and breathtaking Alpine views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clear skies, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Streif (downhill course) - Image 1

Streif

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clear skies, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The legendary Streif in Kitzbühel, home to the world's most dangerous downhill ski race. Experience extreme slopes and breathtaking Alpine views.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Holy cow! You see the descent from the FIS race on tv but when you are actually standing there, you see that steep descent at the starting house."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The terrain can be steep and uneven, even off-season. Good grip is essential for exploring.

📸 Capture the views

The panoramic vistas are as impressive as the ski course itself. Don't forget your camera!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Starting House

The Starting House

Top of the Streif

Stand where legends begin their terrifying descent. Feel the immense steepness and imagine the courage it takes.

Fabio Wibmer's Bike Run

Fabio Wibmer's Bike Run

The entire Streif course

Witness the impossible! Fabio Wibmer's mountain bike descent on snow and ice is a viral sensation.

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Various viewpoints along the Streif

Breathtaking vistas of the Alps, including the Wild Kaiser range, offer a stunning contrast to the course's intensity.

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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for the Extreme

The Streif is not for the faint of heart. Even off-season, its legendary steepness is palpable. If visiting during ski season, expect extreme conditions and world-class athletes. For non-skiers, the starting house offers a glimpse into the danger and history.

Off-Season Access & Views

Outside of the Hahnenkamm Races, the Streif is accessible for hiking and biking. While you won't experience the full thrill of the ski descent, the panoramic views from the starting house and surrounding areas are breathtaking. Check for any ongoing maintenance before your visit.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Autumn
Why
Mild weather, scenic hikes
Crowd
Medium
When
During Hahnenkamm Races (Jan)
Why
Witness elite skiing action
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

no skis, no problem 🫡 🚵‍♀️ @Fabio Wibmer #mountainbiking #mtb #mtblife #TheStreif
@redbullbike
100.9K likes • 2M views

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The terrain can be steep and uneven, even off-season. Good grip is essential for exploring. Reddit

📸 Capture the views

The panoramic vistas are as impressive as the ski course itself. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

he took the ultimate shortcut 😏 🚲: @wibmerfabio #redbull #givesyouwiiings #energydrink #MTB #wintersports #streif
@redbull
36.7K likes • 961.2K views
„THE STREIF“ Video out now now ❄️🔥😎 You know where to find it 🤝
@wibmerfabio
34.2K likes • 913.7K views

🚗 Free parking with lift

If you plan to use the lifts, parking is free and convenient. Reddit

🚲 Bike tires matter!

For extreme bike runs like Fabio Wibmer's, specialized spike tires are crucial for traction. TikTok

now that's how you do it 🫡 ⛷️: James Crawford #redbull #givesyouwiiings #energydrink #streif #skiing
@redbull
33.5K likes • 1.4M views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The terrain can be steep and uneven, even off-season. Good grip is essential for exploring. Reddit

📸 Capture the views

The panoramic vistas are as impressive as the ski course itself. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

🚗 Free parking with lift

If you plan to use the lifts, parking is free and convenient. Reddit

🚲 Bike tires matter!

For extreme bike runs like Fabio Wibmer's, specialized spike tires are crucial for traction. TikTok

⚠️ Respect the danger

Even watching, the steepness is intimidating. Remember the extreme risks for racers. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently awestruck by the sheer scale and legendary status of the Streif, especially the starting house and the incredible views. Many are impressed by the bravery of the racers and the extreme nature of the course. Some find the lift cabins a bit cramped, and off-season visits might encounter renovation work.

"Good lifts. They have a very good Parkingplace and free if you use the lift. Dogs are free as well :) everything works well and fast. The paths on top are very well maintained and nice to walk on. The only slight negative is the liftcabin feel a bit cramped."

Geert Minderhoud

"The house where the legendary downhill race THE STREIF starts. You can visit and see the history of the race. Fantastic views towards the mountain range of Wild Kaiser"

George Kontogouris

"Holy cow! You see the descent from the FIS race on tv but when you are actually standing there, you see that steep descent at the starting house. These racers are crazy people. Impressed!
Too bad it was in renovation/renewing construction, so we couldn't visit the famous start house."

Claudio Kuenzler

What People Like

Legendary starting house
Breathtaking mountain views
History of the race

What People Dislike

Cramped lift cabins
Renovation construction

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Streif is part of the Kitzbühel ski area. You can reach Kitzbühel by train or car. From the town, you can access the ski lifts that lead towards the starting house of the Streif. If you're visiting off-season, you can often drive closer to the starting area or hike up. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. If you plan to use the ski lifts, parking is often free. For those visiting the starting house area, there are parking facilities, though they might be paid during peak season. Reddit

Absolutely! You can visit the starting house and walk parts of the course (when not groomed for skiing) to appreciate its scale and history. The views from the top are spectacular year-round. Instagram

During winter, skiing or snowboarding is the primary way. In summer, hiking and mountain biking are popular. The starting house area is accessible by foot or car for most of the year. TikTok

Access to the starting house and some viewing platforms can be challenging due to the steep terrain. While lifts can help, it's best to check specific accessibility information for the season you plan to visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

If you are skiing or using the lifts, your ski pass will grant you access. To simply visit the starting house area without skiing, there might be a small fee or it could be free depending on the season and specific access points. Reddit

The Streif ski piste is open during the ski season, typically from December to April. The starting house and surrounding areas are generally accessible year-round, though specific facilities might have seasonal hours. Instagram

If you're skiing, you'll need a ski pass, which varies in price. Visiting the starting house area without skiing is often free or has a minimal charge. Check the official Kitzbühel tourism website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Tickets for the Hahnenkamm Races, including the Streif downhill, are highly sought after and sell out quickly. You'll need to purchase them well in advance through official channels. TikTok

While official guided tours specifically of the Streif might be limited, local guides or Kitzbühel tourism offices may offer insights into the history and significance of the racecourse. Reddit

🎫 ⛷️ On-Snow Experience

Absolutely not. The Streif is one of the most challenging and dangerous downhill ski runs in the world, reserved for elite professional skiers. Beginners should stick to designated beginner slopes. Reddit

It features extreme gradients, icy conditions, massive jumps, and treacherous terrain. Sections like the Mausefalle (Mousetrap) and Hausbergkante are legendary for their difficulty. Reddit

During the ski season, the Streif is open to the public, but only for very advanced skiers. It's crucial to be aware of your skill level and the conditions. TikTok

The most famous sections include the Mausefalle (steepest part), Steilhang, Gschöss, Karer, and the Zielschuss (finish straight). Each presents unique challenges. Reddit

Modern netting, padded barriers, and extensive safety crews are present. Despite these, the course remains incredibly dangerous, as evidenced by occasional crashes. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The starting house offers a dramatic perspective. The viewpoints overlooking the Mausefalle and the finish line provide iconic shots. The panoramic mountain scenery from the top is also a must-capture. Instagram

Yes, spectators are encouraged to take photos, but be mindful of other attendees and safety regulations. Professional photography often requires accreditation. TikTok

A camera with good zoom capabilities is helpful to capture athletes from a distance. For landscapes, a wide-angle lens is ideal. Even a smartphone can capture stunning images of the scenery. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial use or drone photography may require special permits. Always check local regulations. TikTok

Mornings often offer clearer light and fewer crowds. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for the mountain landscapes. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are cafes and restaurants in the Kitzbühel ski area, some located near the top or bottom of the Streif. These offer traditional Austrian cuisine and refreshments. Reddit

You'll find hearty Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Kaiserschmarrn, and various local specialties. Many places offer great views along with their meals. Reddit

Yes, numerous food and drink stands are set up around the racecourse and in the town of Kitzbühel during the event. Expect typical event food and beverages. TikTok

Kitzbühel is a high-end resort town, so dining can be on the pricier side, especially at establishments with prime locations or views. However, you can find more reasonably priced options, particularly in cafes or smaller eateries. Reddit

For general visits, bringing your own snacks and water is usually fine. During the races, there might be restrictions on what you can bring into spectator areas. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Streif itself is far too dangerous for children to ski, families can still enjoy the Kitzbühel area. The starting house offers a chance for older children to see where the legendary race begins and appreciate the scale of the challenge. The panoramic views from the top are also a hit with all ages. Instagram

Consider visiting during the summer months when the area is more accessible for gentle hikes. Many of the ski lifts operate, providing easy access to higher viewpoints without the need for skiing. Look for family-friendly cafes in Kitzbühel for a pleasant break. Reddit

🚵 Extreme Sports Enthusiasts

For adrenaline junkies, the Streif is a pilgrimage site. Witnessing the Hahnenkamm Races is an unparalleled experience, but even off-season, the sheer scale of the course is awe-inspiring. The viral Fabio Wibmer bike run is a testament to the extreme potential of this legendary slope. TikTok+1

If you're a skilled mountain biker, you might be inspired by Wibmer's feat, but remember the specialized equipment and extreme caution required. For skiers, tackling the Streif during the season is the ultimate test of skill and bravery. Always assess conditions and your own abilities realistically. Reddit

📸 Photographers & View Seekers

The Streif offers incredible photographic opportunities, from the dramatic starting house to the sweeping Alpine vistas. Capture the raw power of the course and the breathtaking scenery. Instagram

During the races, you can get dynamic shots of the athletes in action, though access might be restricted. Off-season, focus on the landscape and the imposing structure of the course itself. Early mornings often provide the best light for landscape photography. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Streif

The Streif in Kitzbühel, Austria, is more than just a ski piste; it's a legend in the world of alpine skiing. Home to the annual Hahnenkamm Races, it's renowned as one of the most challenging and dangerous downhill courses globally. The race has been held since 1931, attracting the world's best skiers who test their mettle against its brutal gradients, icy patches, and terrifying jumps. Winning here is considered the pinnacle of a ski racer's career. Reddit

Even when not hosting the race, the Streif is a formidable challenge for expert skiers. Its infamous sections, such as the Mausefalle (Mousetrap), Steilhang, and Hausbergkante, are etched into skiing folklore. The sheer steepness, often exceeding 80% gradient in places, combined with unpredictable snow conditions, demands exceptional skill, courage, and physical strength. Reddit

Beyond the race, the Streif's starting house offers a tangible connection to this legendary status. Visitors can stand at the top, gazing down the intimidating slope, and appreciate the immense bravery of the athletes who tackle it. The surrounding mountain scenery provides a breathtaking backdrop, making it a significant landmark even for non-skiers. Instagram

Extreme Mountain Biking on the Streif

In a feat that defied expectations, Fabio Wibmer successfully rode his mountain bike down the Streif, transforming the legendary ski slope into an extreme biking course. This incredible feat, documented in viral videos, showcased the adaptability of the terrain and the sheer audacity of the athlete. Wibmer utilized specially designed spike tires to gain traction on the icy and snowy surface, a critical element for his survival and success. TikTok

The bike run involved navigating the same treacherous sections that challenge skiers, including steep drops and icy traverses. Wibmer's ability to control his bike at high speeds on such a perilous surface was astonishing, with one jump covering an impressive 35.6 meters. The video of his descent became a sensation, highlighting the extreme sports potential of the Streif beyond its traditional use. TikTok

This extraordinary bike descent not only entertained millions but also underscored the unique challenges and possibilities of the Streif. It demonstrated that with the right equipment and skill, even a world-famous ski run can be conquered by other extreme sports enthusiasts, pushing the boundaries of what's considered possible. TikTok

Visiting the Streif: Practicalities and Perspectives

For those planning a visit, understanding the Streif's accessibility is key. Outside the Hahnenkamm Races, the area is generally open for exploration. Visitors can access the starting house to grasp the scale of the challenge. The views from the top are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Alps, including the Wild Kaiser mountain range. Instagram

Reddit users often share practical tips, emphasizing the need for sturdy footwear due to the steep and sometimes uneven terrain, even when not covered in snow. They also highlight the convenience of free parking if you plan to use the ski lifts. While the Streif is a thrilling spectacle, it's crucial to remember its inherent danger; even watching can be intimidating, and it's certainly not a place for inexperienced skiers. Reddit+1

During the Hahnenkamm Races, the atmosphere is electric, but crowds are immense. For a more serene experience, visiting during the off-season allows for a more personal appreciation of the course's grandeur and history. Regardless of when you visit, the Streif offers a powerful glimpse into the world of extreme alpine sports. TikTok

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