Melting Giants – The future of glacier ski resorts?
Glacier ski resorts are struggling with the retreat of the glaciers. When the ice melts, rocks and uneven surfaces are left behind. These must be straightened and cleared of large stones in order to guarantee safe skiing.
If little snow falls at the beginning of the season, it is also already difficult for these ski resorts to maintain operations. Even at high altitudes, snow cannons are already being used to produce artificial snow for skiing.
A visit in early November 2024 revealed a frightening picture. Slopes that I skied on around 12 years ago in early October are now ice-free. Several excavators are being used to level melted areas and make them ready for skiing. Ice is also being actively dredged away to reattach the lift supports.
In the near future, glacier ski areas will be ice-free. Skiing will then still be possible, but will depend on snowfall and artificial snow. There won’t be any “glacier” ski resorts left in Austria.
Here are a few visual impressions from November 2024.