Sledding in Austria: A Complete Guide to Rodelbahn, Sled Rentals & Salzstiegl

Introduction: Sledding Is a Winter Sport You Rarely Get to Experience in Japan

When people think of winter sports in Japan, skiing and snowboarding are usually the first things that come to mind. However, in Europe, especially in Austria, sledding (Sledge / Rodel) is also enjoyed as a serious winter sport.

In Japan, sledding is often associated with children playing on short slopes, and there are relatively few places where adults can enjoy long-distance sledding courses. In Austria, on the other hand, many ski resorts have dedicated sledding runs, and some are completely separated from ski slopes, allowing visitors to enjoy the thrill of sledding in a safer environment.

For this trip, I tried sledding at Salzstiegl, located outside Graz. Surrounded by beautiful nature, Salzstiegl has a dedicated sledding course that is enjoyable even for beginners. If you are traveling in Austria during winter, this is definitely one activity worth trying.

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How to Use a Sled: With or Without Brakes?

There are broadly two types of sleds available.

① Sled With Brakes

The metal handle-like part in the center of the sled shown in the photos is the brake. Pulling it upward activates the brake and allows you to slow down.

Advantages

• More reassuring for beginners
• Easy to control your speed
• You do not need to use your feet to stop, so less snow gets into your boots

Disadvantages

• Slightly heavier
• A little more difficult to carry around

② Sled Without Brakes

This type has a much simpler design. To stop, you simply place both feet on the snow.

After trying it myself, I found that it is surprisingly easy to stop using your feet. However, if you stop suddenly or at high speed, snow can get inside your boots.

My recommendation:

• First-time riders → A sled with brakes is recommended
• Those who prioritize light weight or already have experience → A sled without brakes is also fine

It ultimately comes down to personal preference, but for your first experience, choosing a sled with brakes is probably the safer and more comfortable option.

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How to Turn on a Sled

Sledding is surprisingly simple to control.

To turn, place the foot on the side you want to turn toward onto the snow, almost as if you were applying the brake on that side.

For example:

• Want to turn right → Put your right foot on the snow
• Want to turn left → Put your left foot on the snow

It can feel a little scary when you are moving quickly at first, but once you get used to it, you can control the sled surprisingly well. Successfully making a sharp turn is especially satisfying.

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How to Rent a Sled at Salzstiegl

Rental systems vary from one ski resort to another, but Salzstiegl has a somewhat unique system.

1. Pay the rental fee
2. Receive a token that looks like a coin
3. Go to the sled storage area
4. Insert the token into the chain mechanism attached to the sled
5. The chain is released and you can take the sled

When returning the sled, secure it to an available chain and the token will be released back to you.

Important Notes

• If you lose the token, your deposit will not be returned
• Make sure you receive your token back when returning the sled

One great thing about the system is that you can exchange your sled as many times as you like. If the sled you picked is too heavy or does not glide well, you can simply switch to another one.

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Watch Out for the Dedicated Sledding Run: Rodelbahn

At many Austrian ski resorts, ski slopes and sledding runs are clearly separated.

At Salzstiegl, the dedicated sledding run is marked in yellow on the resort map and is labeled “Rodelbahn.”

Be careful not to accidentally enter a ski slope.
Collisions with skiers can be extremely dangerous, and entering restricted areas may also violate the resort rules.

The dedicated sledding course is wide and features a good balance of curves and straight sections, making it enjoyable even for beginners.

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My Experience: What Was Sledding Really Like?

The sled actually picks up more speed than I expected.

I was a little nervous on my first run, but I quickly got the hang of it.

• The exhilarating feeling of cutting through the wind
• The satisfaction of successfully navigating a curve
• The fun of feeling like a kid again

This is an experience that is difficult to find in Japan.

Another advantage is that you do not need nearly as much technical skill as you would for skiing, and you can start having fun almost immediately. It is also relatively easy on your body, so sledding can be a great activity to enjoy between ski sessions.

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What to Wear and What to Bring

• Waterproof ski jacket and pants
• Gloves — waterproof gloves are essential
• Neck warmer
• Snow boots or waterproof boots

Since you may need to use your feet to brake, waterproof footwear is especially important.

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Conclusion: Sledding Is a Must-Try Winter Activity in Austria

In Austria, sledding is not simply a children’s activity. It is an important part of the country’s winter sports culture.

Key Takeaways

• Sleds with brakes are recommended for beginners
• You can easily control a sled using your feet
• Dedicated sledding runs make it possible to enjoy the activity more safely
• Salzstiegl uses a token-based sled rental system

If you get the chance to visit an Austrian ski resort, I highly recommend giving sledding (Sledge / Rodel) a try.

The speed, freedom, and excitement are difficult to experience in Japan, and they are sure to become one of the most memorable parts of your Austrian winter trip.