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My Gastein experience
Action meets alpine scenery at Schlossalm
Spectacular race
March 27, 2027
Save the Date!
Die Nord - the race
Maximum speed, pure adrenaline: The annual race on the “Nord” descent is not for the faint-hearted.
Starting at 2,300 metres on Hohe Scharte, this Super-G-style descent takes skiers and snowboarders down to the Schlossalmbahn valley station in just about six thrilling minutes. Along the way, racers face everything that makes the “Nord” one of the most spectacular downhill runs in the Eastern Alps: high-speed gliding sections, steep technical slopes, and a whopping 1,440 metres of elevation loss.
What sets this event apart is the blend of intense competition, international flair, and an electrifying race-day atmosphere. It’s no wonder that winter sports enthusiasts from around the world return to Gastein year after year. Whether on skis or a snowboard: Participating in “Die Nord – the race” means becoming part of a truly memorable winter experience in the Gastein valley.
Adrenaline rush in a class of its own
The most important facts at a glance
- Date: March 28, 2026
- Route: the "Nord", one of the longest descents in the Eastern Alps
- Start: Hohe Scharte (2,300 m)
- Finish: Schlossalmbahn valley station
- Height difference: 1,440 m
- Race duration: approx. 6 min
- Discipline: Super-G for ski & snowboard
- Participation: open to everyone aged 18 and over
- Extensive supporting program and top atmosphere
Results list 2026
Find suitable accommodation now.
Arrival in the Gastein Valley
Die Nord - the race: the winter sports event in Gastein
Details about the “Nord”: the race course
Winter sports at their finest: The “Nord” is a legend among Alpine ski runs – known as one of the longest and most diverse downhill runs in the Eastern Alps. Starting on Hohe Scharte, skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts descend a full 10 kilometres and a breathtaking 1,440 vertical metres into the valley. Along the way, wide gliding sections alternate with steep technical slopes that demand precision and focus.
Those who take on the “Nord” quickly understand why it’s considered iconic: It’s not just a slope – it’s an action-packed Alpine adventure, combining speed, technique, and stunning scenery.
Key facts about the ‘Nord’:
- Route: from the Hohe Scharte chairlift mountain station (2,304 m) to the valley
- Elevation loss: 1,440 m
- Character: challenging, scenic, and rewarding
- Best conditions: early morning during the winter season
Moments in action:
Impressions 2026
Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs
How do I find suitable accommodations for my stay during the race?
The Gastein Valley offers a wide variety of accommodations that you can easily book online. The Gastein team will be happy to assist you with any special requests.
Do I need a ski pass for the race?
All participants can purchase a discounted 2-day ski pass for €85 for the duration of the race. This ticket can only be booked during online registration and must be picked up when you receive your race number.
Who can participate in the race?
All skiers and snowboarders aged 18 and older who are in good physical condition and have the necessary experience are eligible to participate.
How do I sign up?
Registration is done directly through the online registration form.
How much is the entry fee for the race?
The regular entry fee is €70. From November 1 through December 31, 2026 (11:59 p.m.), the Early Bird Ticket is available for €60 . Services included in the entry fee:
- a discounted 2-day ski pass for €85 (bookable only upon registration)
- 1 meal and 1 drink at the Weitmoserin Restaurant after the race
- 1 refreshment in the “Trumer Finisher Area”
- A race number as a souvenir
- Goodies & giveaways from partners and sponsors
- Cool after-show party
- 50% off voucher for the 2-hour pass at Alpentherme Gastein, bringing the price down to €15.50. All accompanying guests can purchase the 2-hour pass from Friday through Sunday for €31.
How is the starting order determined by a draw?
Points are awarded for each race entry—based on a formula that works similarly to the FIS points system. Neither age, gender, nor the type of equipment used (skis or snowboard) is taken into account. Performance is the only factor that matters: The fastest competitor of the day receives zero points.
The overall standings are always based on the last three races. Anyone who has not yet completed three races receives a penalty score for the missing races.
In this way, all participants accumulate points over a three-year period. The average of these points determines the current total point total and thus the ranking for the starting draw.
The starting order is then drawn in groups of 30: Positions 1–30 are drawn together, as are positions 31–60, followed by 61–90, 91–120, and so on. Participants competing for the first time this year will be drawn into the last starting group.
The starting interval is 15 seconds.
How is the race scored?
| Ski | Grade/Age |
| Girls | 2009–1997 (ages 18 and up – 30) |
| Women | 1996–1982 (ages 31–45) |
| Ladies | 1981–1967 (ages 46–60) |
| Ladies Seniors | 1966 and older (61 and older) |
| Boys | 2009–1997 (age 18 and older – 30) |
| Men | 1996–1982 (ages 31–45) |
| Gentlemen | 1981–1967 (ages 46–60) |
| Gentlemen Seniors | 1966 and older (61 and older) |
| Snowboard | Year of Birth/Age |
| Girls' Snowboard | 2009–1997 (18 years of age and older – 30) |
| Ladies Snowboard | 1996 and older (31 and older) |
| Boys Snowboard | 2009–1997 (ages 18 and up – 30) |
| Men's Snowboard | Born in 1996 or earlier (31 and older) |
The race day serves as the cutoff date; therefore, age is determined by the age on the day of the race, not the year of birth.
In addition, there is a prize for the daily winner of each gender.
In addition, the competitor whose time is closest to the average of all run times will be awarded a prize.
There is also a team competition. Each team consists of 4 riders. The team’s 3 fastest times count toward the standings.
Where can I find the current points list?
The current overall points standings are available online.
Is there a race briefing?
Yes, the race briefing will take place on Friday, March 26, 2027, at 4:00 p.m. in front of the Weitmoserin at the Schlossalmbahn valley station. Attendance is not mandatory, but it is recommended.
Will the race take place even if the weather is bad?
The event should be able to take place in almost any weather. However, it is possible that the race may need to be shortened due to weather conditions. In the event of heavy fog or strong winds, the start may be moved further down the course. If the downhill run is no longer open, the finish line may also be moved further up the course.
What does the supporting program look like?
The entire race will be accompanied by laid-back commentary and cool music. Following the awards ceremony at 4:00 p.m., the after-race party will take place at the Weitmoserin restaurant at the Schlossalm valley station, featuring “Max & the Strangers” as well as DJ Hiems and Dannykaay.
Where can I find the rules and the disclaimer?
You can find the rules and regulations, as well as the terms of participation and the disclaimer, here.
All sponsors & partners
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