Guide to Skiing the White Ring

Quick Facts

• Length: 22 km
• Altitude change: approx. 5,500 m (ascents and descents)
• Villages connected: Lech, Zürs, Zug, Oberlech
• Entry points: Rüfikopfbahn, Seekopfbahn, Zürserseebahn, Zugerbergbahn
• Viewing platforms: Rüfikopf, Madloch
• Difficulty: Intermediate (mix of blue and red runs)

What is the White Ring?

The White Ring is often described as the longest ski circuit in the world. Combining scenic blue and red runs with spectacular viewpoints and atmospheric mountain huts, it is designed to be completed in around half a day at a relaxed pace. The route takes in a series of gondolas, chairlifts and pistes that circle through the dramatic Arlberg mountains, giving skiers a chance to explore several villages in one continuous journey.

White Ring Route and Entry Points

Most skiers begin the White Ring from Lech via the Rüfikopfbahn cable car, but there are multiple points where you can join the circuit. These include the Seekopfbahn and Zürserseebahn lifts in Zürs and the Zugerbergbahn in Zug. The circuit can be skied in either direction, with most opting to follow the traditional clockwise route starting from Lech.

Along the way, you will cover approximately 22 kilometres of pistes, with a total altitude change of around 5,500 metres when counting both ascents and descents. The mix of terrain makes it suitable for intermediate skiers who are comfortable with blue and red runs. More advanced skiers can extend the experience by exploring off-piste descents in the surrounding area, guided by a professional.

Scenic Highlights

The White Ring is as much about the views as the skiing itself. Two specially designed viewing platforms on the Rüfikopf and Madloch provide unforgettable panoramas over the peaks of the Lechtal Alps and the Verwall mountains. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Silvretta range and even into Tyrol.

There are also several inviting mountain restaurants and huts en route. These make ideal places to pause for coffee or a traditional Austrian lunch whilst soaking up the Alpine atmosphere.

The White Ring Race

Each January, the White Ring becomes the setting for one of the most famous amateur ski races in the world. Hundreds of competitors take to the course, setting off in staggered intervals to complete the full circuit against the clock. The record time for the 22-kilometre race is an astonishing 44 minutes and 10 seconds, highlighting just how demanding the course can be at speed.

Whether you watch from the sidelines or take part yourself, the White Ring Race is a festive occasion that brings together locals and visitors in celebration of Lech’s skiing heritage.

How to Ski the White Ring

To make the most of the White Ring, it is best to set off early in the morning when the pistes are freshly groomed and lifts are quiet. Allow at least half a day to enjoy the route at a leisurely pace, stopping at the viewing platforms and restaurants along the way. The Ski Arlberg app allows you to track your progress around the circuit and even enter a prize draw once completed.

Families will find sections of the White Ring accessible, although younger children may prefer to ski selected portions rather than the full circuit. For private guidance, ski schools in Lech can organise instructors who will lead the way, provide technical advice and ensure a smooth experience.

Whether you are visiting to take on the White Ring, enjoy heli-skiing or relax in Lech’s world-class spas, our portfolio of luxury chalets provides the perfect base. Explore our chalets in Lech or read our guide to Lech to start planning your next Alpine escape.