Ski tunnels are among the most unique features found at mountain resorts, offering skiers the chance to pass through mountains and glaciers before emerging onto another trail. While they are relatively rare, a handful of destinations across the Alps have turned these passages into memorable parts of the skiing experience.
German ski instructor Marius Quast shared his personal ranking of five of his favorite ski tunnels in Europe, highlighting everything from glacier connections to steep expert terrain and one of the world’s longest ski tunnel experiences.
Sölden Glacier Tunnel Opens The List
Quast begins with the glacier tunnel at Sölden in Austria, a well known passage connecting the Rettenbach Glacier with the Tiefenbach Glacier.
Built in 2000, the tunnel stretches 167 meters and drops roughly 10 meters in elevation. According to Quast, one of its biggest advantages is that it allows skiers to quickly reach the sunny slopes of Tiefenbach when the Rettenbach side remains shaded during the morning.
The tunnel has become one of the signature features of the Austrian ski area and remains a favorite stop for many visitors.
Famous Expert Runs Feature On The List
Quast next highlights the Le Tunnel descent in Alpe d’Huez, France. The nearly 200 meter tunnel includes lighting effects before delivering skiers onto one of the resort’s most demanding black diamond runs. He notes that the trail is intended only for experienced skiers due to its steep terrain, moguls, and narrow sections.
Switzerland earns two spots in the rankings. The first is the curved tunnel on the valley run at Leukerbad, which Quast praises for its unusual design carved directly through the rock before opening onto a scenic descent toward the village.
The second is the recently reopened tunnel at Glacier 3000. After being closed for 24 years, the passage once again provides access to the notorious Black Wall, one of Switzerland’s steepest black runs. Warning signs greet skiers before they board a conveyor belt leading to the challenging slope.
The Longest Ski Tunnel Takes The Top Spot
Quast’s favorite ski tunnel is located on Austria’s famous Hochjoch Totale route in Montafon. The nearly 400 meter tunnel is part of one of Austria’s longest ski runs and provides a brief chance for skiers to recover before continuing the lengthy descent. Quast recommends tackling the route early in the morning before the crowds arrive, warning that the full run is demanding enough to leave even experienced skiers with burning legs.