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My Gastein experience
Action meets alpine scenery at Schlossalm
Spectacular race
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 onskis or a snowboard: Participating in “Die Nord – the race” means becoming part of a truly memorable winter experience in the Gastein valley.
The next race is expected to take place in 2027.
More info to follow!
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 accommodation for my race stay?
The Gastein Valley offers a wide range of accommodation that you can easily book online. The Gastein team will be happy to help you with special requests.
Do I need a ski pass for the race?
All participants can purchase a discounted 2-day ski pass for € 75 for the duration of the race. This ticket can only be booked when registering online and taken over at the start number issue.
Who can take part in the race?
All skiers and snowboarders aged 18 and over with appropriate fitness and experience are eligible to take part.
How can I register?
You can register directly via the online registration form.
How much is the entry fee for the race?
The regular entry fee is € 65. From November 1 to December 31, 2025 (11:59 p.m.), the Early Bird Ticket is available for € 55 . Services included in the entry fee:
- discounted 2-day ski ticket for € 75 (only bookable with registration)
- 1 meal and 1 drink in the Weitmoserin restaurant after the competition
- 1 thirst quencher in the "Trumer Finisher Area"
- Race number as a souvenir
- Goodies & giveaways from partners and sponsors
- Cool after-show party
- 50% voucher for the 2h ticket in the Alpentherme Gastein, therefore admission € 15. All accompanying persons get the 2h ticket from Friday to Sunday for € 30.
How is the starting order drawn?
Points are awarded for each race participation - based on a formula that works in a similar way to the FIS points system. Neither age, gender nor the sports equipment used (skis or snowboard) count. Only the performance is decisive: the fastest of the day receives zero points.
The last three races are always taken into account for the overall ranking. Anyone who has not yet completed three races will be awarded a penalty value for the missing participations.
In this way, all participants collect points over three years. The average of these points gives the current total points score and thus the order for the starting draw.
The starting order is then drawn in groups of 30 people: Places 1-30 are drawn together, places 31-60 also, then 61-90, 91-120 and so on. Participants who are starting for the first time this year will be drawn in the last starting group.
The start interval is 15 seconds.
How is the race scored?
| Ski | Year/Age |
| Girls | 2008-1996 (completed 18th year of age - 30) |
| Women | 1995-1981 (31-45) |
| Ladies | 1980-1966 (46-60) |
| Ladies Seniors | 1965 and older (61 and older) |
| Boys | 2008-1996 (completed 18th year of age - 30) |
| Men | 1995-1981 (31-45) |
| Gentlemen | 1980-1966 (46-60) |
| Gentlemen Seniors | 1965 and older (61 and older) |
| Snowboard | Year/Age |
| Girls Snowboard | 2008-1996 (completed 18th year of age - 30) |
| Ladies Snowboard | 1995 and older (31 and older) |
| Boys Snowboard | 2008-1996 (completed 18th year of age - 30) |
| Men Snowboard | 1995 and older (31 and older) |
The race day is the cut-off date, i.e. the age on the day of the race and not the year of birth.
In addition, there is a prize for the winner of the day of both genders.
There is also a prize for the runner who comes closest to the average of all running times.
There is also a team classification. Four runners form a team. The 3 fastest times of the team will be ranked.
Where can I find the current points list?
The current overall points list can be viewed online.
Is there a race briefing?
Yes, the race briefing will take place on Friday, 27.3.2026 at 16:00 in front of the Weitmoserin restaurant at the Schlossalmbahn valley station. Participation is not mandatory, but recommended.
Does the race also take place in bad weather?
It should be possible to hold the event in almost any weather. However, the race may have to be shortened due to weather conditions. In the event of heavy fog or wind, the start can be moved further down. If the downhill run is no longer open, the finish may also be moved further up.
What does the supporting program look like?
The entire race will be accompanied by relaxed moderation and cool music. After the award ceremony at 16:00, the after-race party with "Max & the Strangers" as well as DJ Hiems and Dannykaay will take place in the Weitmoserin restaurant at the Schlossalm valley station.
All sponsors & partners
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