Ochsenkopf Ski Resort: Skiing in the Fichtelgebirge

Winter sports at the Ochsenkopf at a glance

• Skiing and snowboarding on easy and moderately difficult runs
• Practice slope for beginners and families
• Cross-country skiing on an extensive network of trails
• Tobogganing and rides on the Alpine Coaster
• Winter walking and snowshoeing

Skiing in the Fichtelgebirge on the Ochsenkopf

Skiing fun far from the Alps awaits you on the Ochsenkopf in Upper Franconia. At 1,024 metres, it is the second-highest mountain in the Fichtelgebirge. Its north and south runs are among the longest ski runs in northern Bavaria, totalling more than four kilometres.

Two modern 10-seater gondola lifts provide access to the mountain from Bischofsgrün in the north and Fleckl in the south. This allows you to reach the summit in comfort and choose between two runs, each with its own distinct character.

North and South runs on the Ochsenkopf

The northern run, which is around 2.3 kilometres long, covers an elevation difference of approximately 350 metres. This red run, rated as intermediate, is aimed at skiers and snowboarders who are already confident on their boards. A snow-making system can support the run along its entire length when temperatures are suitable.

Things are a little more leisurely on the south side. The blue run, which is around 1.9 kilometres long, covers an elevation difference of about 250 metres and, with its lower difficulty level, is also suitable for less experienced winter sports enthusiasts. The lower section can be covered with artificial snow when conditions are suitable.

As lift operations and slope conditions depend on the current snow and weather conditions, you should check the daily winter sports report before setting off.

First turns on the practice slope

For beginners and families, there is a practice slope around 150 metres long at the Nord valley station in Bischofsgrün. A T-bar lift and a conveyor belt make it easier to get started with winter sports. Ski schools and hire centres in the region will help you with your first turns and provide you with the right equipment if needed.

Cross-country skiing, tobogganing and winter walking around the Ochsenkopf

Not keen on winter sports on the slopes? Then strap on your cross-country skis and explore the extensive network of trails around the Ochsenkopf. Depending on the trail, the routes are suitable for either classic style or skating. A range of difficulty levels means you can enjoy both leisurely loops and more challenging tours.

You can also discover the snow-covered landscape of the Fichtelgebirge on foot. Groomed winter walking trails, unspoilt winter paths and snowshoe routes lead through quiet forests and over hilltops with stunning views. Before setting off, check the conditions and requirements of your chosen route.

Several toboggan slopes and natural toboggan runs offer plenty of variety. The Ochsenkopf Alpine Coaster is also located at the Nord valley station. This rail-guided toboggan run is open during the winter season, weather permitting.

Where the Ochsenkopf gets its name

Originally, the Ochsenkopf was known as the ‘Hoher Vichtelberg’ or simply the Fichtelberg. To this day, it remains unclear how the animal’s head, carved into a rock below the Nordbahn, came to be there.

A legend tells of a farmer who lost one of his oxen at this spot and only found its skull many years later. As a memorial, he is said to have carved the image of an ox’s head into the rock. Over time, the name came to be applied to the entire mountain.

By train to the Ochsenkopf ski resort

Take the train to Bayreuth Central Station. From there, bus route 329 towards Fichtelberg will take you to the ‘Bischofsgrün Schwebebahn Nord’ stop in around 50 minutes, depending on the connection.

From the bus stop, walk about 300 metres north-east along Fröbershammer Straße. After a few minutes, you’ll reach the northern valley station of the Ochsenkopf cable car. As timetables can vary depending on the season, you should check your connection before setting off.