Cross-country skiing in Oberstdorf: trails for all levels

Latest travel advice: Between Immenstadt and Oberstdorf, replacement bus services may operate in some sections up to and including 12 December 2026. Please check your journey on the DB Navigator before setting off.

Cross-country skiing in Oberstdorf in the Allgäu

Your skis glide smoothly along the track, cold winter air brushes against your cheeks, and the peaks of the Allgäu Alps rise above the snow-covered meadows: in Oberstdorf, numerous cross-country trails lead from the outskirts of the town deep into the quiet side valleys.

Up to 71 kilometres are available for classic-style skiing. Around 67 kilometres of these are also groomed for skating. Easy circular routes, challenging World Championship trails and longer tours through the valleys offer suitable options for all levels of ability.

The cross-country trails in Oberstdorf at a glance

• Up to 71 kilometres for classic-style skiing
• Up to 67 kilometres for skating
• Easy, moderate and challenging routes
• Free use of the regular cross-country network
• Ten kilometres of World Championship cross-country trails suitable for artificial snowmaking
• Floodlit night trail at the Nordic Centre
• Cross-country skiing lessons and equipment hire on site

The Oberstdorf circuit for beginners

The Oberstdorf circular trail, approximately 9.1 kilometres long, begins on the southern outskirts of the village. The largely flat route leads across open meadows and fields, along the River Stillach and past the Loretto chapels. Several entry points allow you to shorten the loop or link it to other trails.

The circuit is groomed for both classic and skating techniques. Thanks to its proximity to the town, it’s ideal if you’re getting to know Oberstdorf’s network of trails for the first time or simply want to enjoy a leisurely loop.

Short practice loop at the Halde

The trail at the Halde is even more compact. The roughly 1.2-kilometre-long circuit is largely flat and has only slight inclines and descents. This makes it particularly suitable for first attempts at cross-country skiing.

The route is designed for both classic and skating techniques and can be linked to the Oberstdorf circuit. As the trail is not artificially snow-made, its opening depends on natural snow conditions.

On the World Championship trails at the Oberstdorf Nordic Centre

At the Oberstdorf Nordic Centre, more than 30 different route options wind through the grounds of the Nordic World Ski Championships. From short sprint routes to the 6.25-kilometre loop, you can combine various options here.

In the flat area around the stadium, even less experienced cross-country skiers will find suitable routes. The steep climbs and fast descents at Burgstall, on the other hand, are intended exclusively for experienced skiers with sound technique.

A total of ten kilometres of the World Championships trails can be artificially snow-covered. Parts of the trail network may be temporarily closed due to training sessions, competitions or events. You should therefore check the current trail status before your visit.

Cross-country skiing under floodlights on the night trail

In the evenings, floodlights transform part of the Nordic Centre into an illuminated night trail. You can choose between a flat circuit of approximately 1.5 kilometres and a more challenging route featuring the Burgstall climb. Together, the illuminated sections total around four kilometres.

The night trail is open on several evenings a week during the winter season. Operating days and lighting times may vary depending on daylight, snow conditions and events. You should therefore check the current times on the day of your visit.

Outside the designated night cross-country ski trail, the Oberstdorf network of trails should not be used after regular opening hours. During this time, the trails are being groomed and the grooming vehicles are difficult to spot in the dark.

Through the Trettachtal valley to Spielmannsau

A longer and scenically varied route leads from the Nordic Centre through the Trettachtal valley towards Spielmannsau. This approximately 13-kilometre-long route is groomed for both classic and skating styles.

Steep climbs and fast descents make the tour of moderate to challenging difficulty. From the golf course onwards, the terrain becomes gentler. In the event of an acute avalanche risk, individual sections towards Spielmannsau may be closed.

Classic cross-country loop near Birgsau

Near the Fellhornbahn, the approximately 6.5-kilometre-long trail to Birgsau begins. It leads through the Stillach Valley and is groomed exclusively for classic technique. Thanks to its location on the Allgäu main ridge, it often still offers good conditions when trails closer to the village already have less snow.

Here too, parts of the circuit may be closed in the event of an avalanche risk. The latest winter sports report shows which sections are open.

Courses, hire and a break at the Nordic Centre

Local cross-country skiing schools offer courses in classic and skating techniques. Beginners can learn the basics, whilst advanced skiers can work specifically on their technique, balance and movement patterns. Suitable hire equipment is available from various providers and should be booked in advance, particularly at weekends.

Changing rooms, showers and toilets are available at the Nordic Centre. After your run, you can refuel with hot drinks and light snacks at the Nordic Café. Before your visit, please check the current opening hours and any charges for using the facilities.

Trail conditions and the right equipment

Which trails are open and freshly groomed depends on snow conditions, temperature and avalanche risk. You should therefore check the Oberstdorf winter sports report before every trip.

The necessary equipment includes suitable cross-country skis, boots and poles, as well as breathable winter clothing, gloves and sun or eye protection. Dogs are not permitted on the trails.

Travelling by train to the cross-country trails in Oberstdorf

Take the train to Oberstdorf station. From there, it’s about a ten- to 15-minute walk to the start of the local circular trail.

To get to the Nordic Centre, take bus route 7 from the coach station next to the railway station, heading towards Stillachtal. Get off at the ‘Nordic Zentrum Oberstdorf’ stop. For other trail access points, you should check the relevant bus service and the current timetable in advance.