Rofan Ascent - Vertical Race
The legendary Rofan Night Ascent will enter a new era. Rebranded as the “Rofan Ascent - Vertical Race”, this iconic event will become part of an exciting new format, blending time-honored tradition with fresh innovation. Ski tourers can look forward to the familiar spirit of the race along with thrilling challenges.
The event took place on 22 February 2025 and the participants can look back on an unforgettable day.
Programme and route details
- Race number collection: Race numbers can be collected upon presentation of a registration confirmation from 08:30 to 11:30 at the valley station of the Rofan cable car. Participants with a combined ticket will use the same race number for both race days (only one pick-up is required). Each participant will receive two race numbers: one for the thigh and one for the rucksack.
- Cable car ride: Ascent with the Rofan cable car from 08.30
- The descent on skis via the Rotspitz downhill run to the start must be completed by 12.45 at the latest. The starting point can only be reached via the ski slope, as the ascent from the valley station is not possible due to the current snow conditions.
- Start time & route: The race begins on Saturday, 22 February 2025 at 13.00. The starting point is located on the plateau below the former Buchauer Alm (1,340m). From there, participants will climb 490 metres of elevation on a groomed slope to the top station of the Rofan cable car. Detailed route information is available at maps.achensee.com.
- Award ceremony: The award ceremony will take place approximately 30 minutes after the end of the Vertical Race, during which trophies will be presented to the winners.
- From 14.00: Pasta party in the huts on the Rofan.
- Raffle prize drawing.
- Descent with the Rofan cable car until 17.00.
Be part of the exciting continuation of a 26-year tradition of night skiing in the Rofan, now reimagined in a fresh format. The event is open to all amateur athletes - no accreditation or license is required to participate.
The number of participants is limited to 200.
- Entry fee is EUR 60 and includes the following services:
- An attractive goodie bag filled with products and vouchers from partners such as Kneipp, Rox, Hagan, etc. (provided upon race number collection).
- 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 at 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
- The „Rofan Ascent – Vertical Race“ is part of the SKIMO Alpencup 2025.
- Mandatory equipment: All participants must adhere to SKIMO regulations regarding required equipment.
- Cable car access: Exclusive rides for athletes will start at 8.00 on the day of the race with the Rofan cable car.
- Categories:
- U16: Born in 2009–2010 (15–16 years old)
- U18: Born in 2007–2008 (17–18 years old)
- U20: Born in 2005–2006 (19–20 years old)
- Seniors: Born in 1980–2004 (21–45 years old)
- Masters: Born in 1979 or earlier (46+ years old)
- Optional categories: U12 and U14 may be added if parents are present during registration or provide a signed declaration of consent.
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.
Regulations: The event follows the guidelines and standards of Skimo Austria.
From 8.30, spectators can take the gondola or alternatively, hike up to the event area. From the top station, you will have an excellent view of the entire race. From 13.00, a race party with live music will provide entertainment, and refreshments will be available. The party concludes at 16.30, followed by the descent with the Rofan cable car.
