12. March 2023 & 13. January 2024
It was a Saturday, and after everyone checked in on each other following our skiing session, we decided to try a less extreme activity: the Toboggan Run. Thanks to Yna for the suggestion! What followed was a fun, scenic, and truly memorable experience in the snow.
The View from Glungezer
Upon reaching Tulfes and ascending to the top of Glungezer, I was amazed by how everything was snow-capped—the houses, the pine trees, the entire village. From afar, you can catch glimpses of Innsbruck and its neighboring areas.
The panorama is a true healer for the soul, as if a postcard has come to life—a moving photograph frozen in time. While the peaks above may appear almost black and white, the valleys below burst with vibrant, lively colors.
Getting There
If you’re heading to Tulfes, be sure to bring your camera—you’ll be treated to stunning views of the valley.
Option 1: Bus Line 540
- Route: Board Bus 540 at Innsbruck Olympiaworld and ride to the Glungezerbahn valley station in Tulfes.
- Travel Time: Approximately 22–23 minutes
- Schedule: About once every hour
- Fare: Around €3–6
- Operator: VVT (Verkehrsverbund Tirol)
Option 2: Bus Line 4134
- Route: Catch Bus 4134 from Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to the Glungezerbahn station in Tulfes.
- Travel Time: Around 30–40 minutes
- Schedule: Departures every 30 minutes
- Fare: Often free for skiers—keep your ski pass handy
- Tip: Fares are free for holders of the Tirol Monatticket
For real-time schedules and additional details, check the VVT website or the ÖBB app. On our first visit, we were able to get a fare refund at the Glungezerbahn station—worth asking if you’ve already paid.
Driving: Parking is available at the valley station; check locally for fees and availability if you plan to drive.
Costs and Tickets
- Lift Ticket: €28 per person (includes: 2 hours for the for the toboggan lift)
- Sled Rental (Adults): €10
- Session: We only did a half-day, but multiple runs are possible.
Note: Prices are subject to change. Check the official Glungezerbahn website for the latest rates.
Facilities and Rentals
- Restrooms: Available
- Restaurants: Available at the valley station
- Ski Rentals: At the valley station; availability at the top station may vary
- Sled Rentals: Available
- Parking: Available; check fees locally
What to Wear and Bring
From my ski experience, here’s what worked best:
- Gloves: Water-resistant; knitted gloves aren’t enough
- Layering & Pants: Moisture-wicking base layer, warm mid-layer, water-repellent jacket
- Sunglasses or Goggles: Protect against snow glare
- Boots or Winter Shoes: Waterproof and sturdy for walking and sliding
- Socks: Thick and warm
- Snacks & Hydration: Water, energy bars, or mints for long runs
- Bag/Backpack: Handy for extra layers, snacks, or essentials
Optional: Helmets can be worn for extra safety, especially for children.
Our Toboggan Experience
After we purchased our lift tickets, we rode the Bahn for almost 15 minutes. When we arrived at the top, we rented a sled so we could make the most of the remaining hours.
This was our second Bahn ride, but our first time sledding. Quite fitting for eight people, right? 🙂
Tip: If you’re already at the top, be sure to ask where the starting point for the toboggan run is—you don’t want to accidentally head to the wrong spot like we did, ending up walking a few extra meters before we could start the run.
The Run
Our first toboggan session was incredibly fun. At first, we weren’t sure how it would go, but it quickly became clear that everyone could manage and balance on the sled. Glungezer offers approximately 3.7 kilometers of downhill run.
We started around 2:00 PM, and since the ski resort closes at 4:00 PM, we were able to complete three runs. Although it felt a bit short, it was still memorable for everyone.
Tips for a Great Experience
- Arrive early for multiple runs.
- Keep a safe distance from other sledders.
- Use the sled brake when necessary.
- Bring a camera—views from the top are postcard-worthy.
Glungezer’s Toboggan Run is the perfect combination of adventure and scenic beauty, making it ideal for a half-day outing near Innsbruck.
We went on this run twice during our stay, and since we aren’t skiers, we especially enjoyed it. The snow-capped mountains, colorful valleys, and thrilling descent make it an experience truly worth trying—absolutely breathtaking.
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