Austrian tobagganing

Every sports equipment retailer in Innsbruck carries what looks to be a collection of decorative wooden sleds.  From something that looks like it was made for a doll to something that would fit 4 adults and is over 6′ long and every possible size in between. Beautifully crafted with a kind of curved honey colored hardwood, metal sheeting on the blades and bright multicolored woven seating, these things are not designed to beautify your home.  Tobaggans are meant to be ridden… and ridden fast.

Most ski areas, of which there are numerous ones to choose from, have tobaggan runs that are open during the day and sometimes when lit, for nighttime riding as well. The runs are accessed by gondola and oftentimes stretch over 7 km long. The runs are made along what we would call in the States, cat-tracks, and snake through beautiful winter wonderlands of forest, past quaint little churches, along idyllic fenced pastures and around winding banked turns.  In this case, the run also allowed for sweeping views of the Innsbruck valley below. Just like in summer, there are alms that allow a place to warm up and fuel up along the way offering dinner, drinks and hot chocolate.

We donned our ski helmets and goggles at the suggestion of a local, and headed out to a village called Mutters to try our hand at this grand tradition of the Alps. It was no surprise that we shared a tram with an entire school class, each kid with their own tobaggan in tow, headed to the woods on a beautiful afternoon.  It was a riotously fun time. Here is a video of our after-school tobagganing adventure.

Note: You may want to hit a dramamine before watching this video. Although we tried our very best to hold the camera still, you’re looking at 4 minutes of full action footage. Enjoy. 

If I have learned anything on this trip, it’s been that Austrians take outdoor adventuring and make it 1st class  and accessible in every way. There are lifts for anyone wanting (or needing) to take that route. But they also allow skinning and hiking inside of all of the ski areas if you want to get your heart rate up. It feels more relaxed and open to a broader audience of outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and abilities rather than just the hard core athletic types. It’s very social and about having a good time, being outside and never being far from good food and cheap beer. If you want to get out, regardless of your ability or mobility situation, there is a way for you to enjoy it.

#snow #funny #winter #everydaylife #culture #curiosities #fun #views #family