Zinken lifts in danger: What will happen to the popular ski area?

Zinken lifts in danger: What will happen to the popular ski area?

The popular family ski area “Zinkenlifte” on Dürrnberg in Salzburg is facing serious challenges. The concession for the chairlift, which is almost 40 years old, is about to expire. How oe24.at reported that a necessary overhaul of the chairlift would cost the city of Hallein millions. Last winter the chairlift was not in operation for a single day; Only one drag lift was open in a few places.

However, the city of Hallein is hoping for a recovery in the summer season. Planned activities, such as the “Keltenblitz” summer toboggan run and two mountain bike trails, are intended to improve the situation. Approvals have already been received for the construction of the mountain bike trails, and the project is part of a cross-border Interreg program that is scheduled to be implemented by 2026.

Investments and future prospects

Comprehensive investments are required for the continued operation of the ski area. The city of Hallein is forced to save money and is looking for private investors to raise the necessary millions. The overhaul of the chairlift must be completed by 2027 to save the ski area.

The Zinkenlifte Hallein/Bad Dürrnberg is considered the first all-inclusive ski area in Salzburg to offer a wide range of options for families. In addition to the wonderful panoramic view from the Zinkenkogel, which offers views of Salzburg, the Untersberg and the Dachstein, the Zinki children's area is a popular attraction for younger guests. There, children can practice turns and experience snow tubing from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Another plus point is the possibility of renting snowshoes.

The culinary diversity also plays a role in the Zinkenstüberl; Here visitors can enjoy beer, ski water and a daily special for reasonable prices. In order to make the ski area more attractive, the operators have implemented additional offers with the Super Ski Card and the Dachstein-West season card.

Competition and investments in skiing

The need for investment in skiing is not limited to Hallein. skiareas.info points out that other regions, such as the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser ski area, have invested to maintain their status. An investment volume of 73.4 million euros was announced here for new railways and modern facilities. Such measures are crucial in order to survive in the competition between ski areas.

The Zinkenlifte are now faced with the challenge of finding a viable solution to maintain the attractiveness of the ski area and finance necessary modernization. This can only succeed if both public and private investors are found to secure the future of this traditional ski area.