For ambitious ski tourers

Rofan Ascent - Vertical Race

The Rofan Ascent - Vertical Race on 6 March 2027 offers a true sporting challenge for anyone who loves conquering altitude. Building on the legacy of the legendary “Rofan Night Ascent”, this established race combines a traditional competitive spirit with a modern format. The challenging route in the Rofan mountains tests your endurance and fitness and rewards you with stunning views and genuine racing atmosphere. It is a must-do event for ambitious ski tourers at Lake Achensee.

The information on this page is updated regularly. 
Registration will open soon.

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Programme - Rofan Ascent Vertical Race on 6 March 2027

07.30 – 09.00 | Race number collection

Race numbers for the Achensee Xtreme – Vertical Race and the combined classification can be collected on the day of the event at the Rofan cable car valley station upon presentation of your registration confirmation. Participants with a combined ticket will start with the same race number on both race days. It is therefore sufficient to collect your race number just once.

Each participant will receive two race numbers: one for the thigh and one for the rucksack.

From 08.30 | Ascent via the Rofan cable car

The ascent to the start area will take place via the Rofan cable car from 08.30.

Until 12.30 at the latest | Departure for the start

You must set off on your skis down the Rotspitz run to the start area by 12.30 at the latest.

Depending on snow conditions, the start point is accessible only via the ski run.

13.00 | Start of the Vertical Race

The competition starts at 13.00.

The race begins on the plateau below the former Buchauer Alm at 1,340 metres. From there, the route follows a groomed piste, climbing approximately 490 metres in altitude to the top station of the Rofan cable car.

Detailed route map

After the race | Prize-giving ceremony

The prize-giving ceremony will take place approximately 30 minutes after the end of the race. This will be followed by the raffle prize draw.

From approx. 14.00 | Pasta party

Pasta party in the huts in the Rofan.

Until 17.00 | Descent

The descent via the Rofan cable car is available until 17.00.

  • Participation:
    • In principle, any amateur athlete can take part in the Rofanaufstieg – Vertical Race. No accreditation or licence is required.
  • Entry fee:
    • EUR 40 until 2 March 2027
    • EUR 60 from 3 March 2027
  • What's included:
    • An attractive goodie bag filled with products and vouchers from partners such as Kneipp, Rox, Hagan, etc. (provided upon race number collection).
    • Finisher medal for all participants
    • Entry into a raffle with high-quality vouchers and prizes.
    • A parking ticket for the Rofan cable car park (provided upon race number collection).
    • Ascent and descent with the Rofan cable car for each participant, including one accompanying person (provided upon race number collection).
    • Pasta party in the huts on the Rofan for the participants, includes 1 meal and 2 drinks (meal vouchers provided upon race number collection).
    • Rucksack transport from the start to the finish area. However, we cannot guarantee that your equipment will arrive at the finish line before you.
  • Combined ticket (Vertical & Individual Race):
    • EUR 120 until 2 March 2026
    • EUR 140 from 3 March 3026
  • The „Rofan Ascent – Vertical Race“ is part of the SKIMO Alpencup promoted by SkimStats 2026.
  • Mandatory equipment: All participants must adhere to SKIMO regulations regarding required equipment.  
  • Categories:
    • U12: Born in 2015–2016 (11–12 years old)
    • U16: born in 2011–2014 (13–16 years)
    • U18: born in 2009–2010 (17–18 years)
    • U20: born in 2007–2008 (19–20 years)
    • Senior: born in 1982–2006 (21–45 years)
    • Masters: born in 1981 or earlier (46 years and older)

Route changes: The Rofan ski touring area can be explored using the winter/ski resort map available at www.rofanseilbahn.at. Please note that the organizer reserves the right to make last-minute route changes due to adverse weather conditions, such as avalanche risks.  

Liability and insurance: Each participant is expected to have competition insurance that includes rescue coverage. The organizer assumes no liability for injuries, deviations from the designated route, or other risks - participation is entirely at your own risk. Basic alpine knowledge is required for all participants. Participants under the age of 18 must have written consent from a parent or guardian.

All four competitions of Achensee Xtreme
Four skiers ascend a snowy slope, each using ski poles for support. They wear various brightly colored ski gear as they navigate the steep terrain. The environment is mountainous and overcast, creating a wintry scene.

Achensee Xtreme – Individual Race

In winter, children complete a course in the Rofan mountains on touring skis or downhill skis.

Kids Race

Zwei Frauen fallen sich beim Achensee Xtreme Skitourenspaß in die Arme. Im Hintergrund das Rofan.

Achensee Ski Touring Fun

A group of skiers ascends a snowy slope, navigating through the winter landscape. The background features snow-capped mountains and evergreen trees. The skiers are equipped with skiing gear and poles, concentrating on their climb. A red barrier marks the course ahead.

Rofan Ascent - Vertical Race

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