A short loop around the biathlon pond
The skating loop at the biathlon facility Gutenbrunn is a compact training course for anyone who prefers the free, dynamic skating stroke. The official loop begins at the biathlon pond, is 2.80 kilometers long, and is classified as easy. With 29 meters of elevation gain and the same amount of descent, the route remains manageable, but still requires proper skating technique and a realistic assessment of one’s own fitness level. Gutenbrunn Biathlon Facility Skating
The Gutenbrunn Skating Biathlon Course is quite different from the traditional cross-country trails around Gutenbrunn. Furthermore, on those trails, skiers glide primarily with their skis parallel in grooved tracks. In skating, on the other hand, skiers push off sideways. This requires a wide, evenly groomed snow surface.
For hotel guests, the Gutenbrunn Skating biathlon facility is an interesting addition.
It complements the Warm-up lap, Zwettlstein Cross-Country Trail, Three Lakes Trail, the Höllberg Trail and the Waldhäuser Trail.
The entrance is not located directly at the Gutenbrunn 133 vacation rentals.
Instead, he is at the biathlon pond.
In addition, you should plan your route or access in advance based on the latest local information.
The Skating Circuit at a Glance
- Start: Biathlon Pond
- Destination: Biathlon Pond
- Route Type: Loop
- Technique: Skating
- Distance: 2.80 kilometers
- Official running time: approximately 43 minutes
- Difficulty: easy
- Fitness level: 2 out of 6
- Ascent: 29 meters in elevation
- Descent: 29 meters in elevation
- Lowest point: 921 meters
- Highest point: 948 meters
- Technically calculated GPX length: approximately 2.79 kilometers
- GPX track points: 46
The official trail is explicitly designated as a skating trail. To determine whether classic tracks are also available or usable, check the current trail report and the on-site signage.
Who is this tour for?
At 2.80 kilometers, the course is short enough for a manageable training session. Nevertheless, the Gutenbrunn Biathlon Facility is technically and physically demanding. Anyone who hasn’t yet mastered the technique should first learn it under expert guidance in a suitable practice area.
This tour is especially suitable for:
- Beginners in skating who have mastered the basic techniques
- athletic cross-country skiers looking for a short training session
- People returning to exercise who want to brush up on their movements
- Guests who want to practice technique and balance
- Experienced skaters for warming up or for several controlled laps
- Winter vacationers who want to switch between classic cross-country skiing and skating
The official “easy" rating describes the trail, not the personal effort required to learn the skating technique. If you're using cross-country skis for the first time, it's best to start with a guided introduction.
Course around the Biathlon Pond
The official GPX track starts at the biathlon pond at the Gutenbrunn Skating biathlon facility.
He also describes a short loop trail within the forest area.
The map shows several loops and connections that together total a length of about 2.8 kilometers.
The following applies to the Gutenbrunn Skating Biathlon Course: The official route description does not provide a detailed sequence of individual waypoints.
However, we have deliberately chosen not to use fictional section names or directional indicators here.
The current signage, trail conditions, and instructions from the local trail staff are authoritative.
Entrance at the Biathlon Pond
The starting point is at 48.364700 degrees north and 15.082211 degrees east. Before setting out, you should check which direction of travel applies and which loops are currently open.
Use the first few minutes to warm up. Check your bindings, boots, and poles, and start with slow, long strokes. On a short run, it’s very tempting to start off fast right away. For technique and safety, a controlled pace is better.
Several laps instead of a long drive
The GPX track does not show a single long, back-and-forth section, but rather several interconnected loops. This makes the course ideal for training sessions: Depending on the route’s accessibility and surface conditions, you can practice your running rhythm, cornering technique, and changes in pace.
However, the GPX route shown here is not a substitute for road signs. Individual sections may be groomed differently in winter, closed, or open to traffic in only one direction.
Return to the starting point
The loop ends back at the biathlon pond. After the first lap, it’s easy to decide whether another lap is appropriate given how you’re feeling that day. If you start to get tired or can no longer maintain proper form, it’s best to end your workout early.
Several short laps aren't necessarily easier than a longer run. Repeated bursts of speed and continuous skating put a strain on the cardiovascular system as well as the muscles in the legs, core, and arms.
Skating Techniques Explained in an Easy-to-Understand Way
In skating, the skis are positioned outward in a V-shape. The push-off is made laterally using the ski edge, while body weight is shifted from one ski to the other. The poles help with propulsion and rhythm.
Key principles include:
- stable one-legged stance
- Complete weight transfer
- controlled lateral impression
- calm upper body
- appropriate use of the cane
- anticipatory route selection
- Safe braking and cornering techniques
Beginners often take steps that are too short and hurried and distribute their weight evenly between both skis. This results in a significant loss of power. A smooth glide phase is more effective than „running“ quickly on the skis.
Difference Between Skating and Classic Style
Depending on their design, classic cross-country skis feature a climbing zone, scales, skins, or climbing wax. The skis are typically skied in parallel within a prepared double track.
Skating skis are usually shorter and more torsionally rigid. They do not have a classic climbing zone. The push-off is performed using the edge on a wide, rolled surface. Skating boots and poles also differ from classic equipment.
Classic tracks must not be damaged by skating strides. Conversely, you should not stop unnecessarily or walk on the skating surface.
Is the facility a public shooting range?
The tour title refers to the route as „Skating at the Gutenbrunn Biathlon Facility.“ This does not automatically mean that guests are allowed to freely use the shooting range or biathlon equipment.
This post describes only the official skating route. The use of shooting ranges, training targets, or related equipment is permitted only if they are expressly offered, supervised, and authorized. Please observe any barriers and follow the instructions of the responsible operators.
How long does the round last?
The official duration is 43 minutes. This is an approximate time. Experienced skaters can complete the course more quickly, while beginners may take longer due to breaks to practice technique and the need to take turns cautiously.
If you plan to do several laps, you should factor in breaks and increasing fatigue. Especially when skating, the quality of your movement deteriorates as your leg and core muscles tire.
Check the current status
A GPX file shows the geographical route, not the current trail conditions. Lack of snow, thawing, ice, storms, forestry work, or maintenance on the facilities may result in closures or changes.
Before you begin, check the following:
- Is the skating track currently groomed and open?
- Which direction of travel is required?
- Have all the loops been approved?
- Are there any icy or damaged areas?
- How are temperature, wind, and precipitation expected to change?
- Has the path to the biathlon pond been cleared and is it accessible?
- Are there any events or practice times with restrictions?
Current on-site signage and instructions always take precedence over maps, GPX files, and older information.
Recommended Skating Equipment
For this round, we recommend:
- Skating skis of the appropriate length and stiffness
- Skating shoes with good lateral support
- compatible skating bindings
- Longer cross-country ski poles for the skating technique
- Breathable clothing based on the layering principle
- windproof jacket
- tight-fitting gloves
- Cap or headband
- Sunglasses or sports glasses
- Cell phone with a fully charged battery
- GPX file saved offline
- Beverage, protected from the cold
- personal medications
- small first-aid kit
Classic skis are generally unsuitable for the skating technique. If you only have classic equipment, you shouldn't force it to be used for skating; instead, you should rent the appropriate equipment.
Warming Up Before the Start
Skating works your legs, hips, core, shoulders, and arms. A few minutes of warm-up exercises help improve flexibility and coordination.
The following are suitable:
- a relaxed walk or trot
- circular shoulder movements
- Gentle squats
- lateral weight shifts
- a few quiet steps without applying much pressure to the poles
Start the first round slowly. Fast intervals should only be incorporated into your workout once your muscles and cardiovascular system are warmed up.
Behavior on the Skating Track
Even on a short practice lap, it's important to be considerate and drive with foresight:
- Follow the specified direction of travel
- Allow faster drivers to pass safely
- Do not come to a sudden stop before curves
- If you fall, clear the riding area as quickly as possible
- Hold your poles close to your body when near other people
- Adjust your speed based on visibility, skill level, and terrain
- Respect barriers and event areas
- Provide assistance in the event of an accident
Pedestrians, Dogs, Sleds and snowshoes are allowed on the trails only if expressly permitted. The local Gutenbrunn rules prohibit dogs as well as pedestrians and snowshoe hikers from using the trails.
Is this tour suitable for older guests?
Fitness-conscious older guests with ice-skating experience can use the compact loop. The key factors are balance, technique, strength, endurance, and a realistic assessment of one’s own abilities.
Skating requires more lateral stability than classic cross-country skiing. If you feel unsure about shifting your weight, you should seek expert guidance or choose a classic trail to start with.
Anna and Herbert are happy to help guests choose an activity that best suits their personal preferences and how they're feeling that day.
Skating with Kids
Children can use the track if they are already able to skate and brake safely and follow the designated direction of travel. A training facility is not suitable for unsupervised first attempts.
A helmet, appropriate gear, and short practice sessions are recommended. Adults should always adjust the pace and duration to match the youngest and slowest member of the group.
Is the route accessible?
No. The skating circuit isn't barrier-free. Snow, skating technique, turns, and elevation changes require flexibility, balance, and physical endurance.
The compacted snow surface must not be used as a regular walking path. Designated winter hiking trails are available for winter walks.
Trail Fees, Rentals, and Services
According to official information, the current prices for the Gutenbrunn cross-country ski trail network are as follows—Bärnkopf:
- Day pass: 5 euros per person
- Weekly pass: 15 euros per person
- Children and teens up to age 15: free
The ticket machine at the Hansl pond Accepts only coins and does not give change. Additional ticket sales locations are listed at the Marschall Stuben cross-country ski lodge and the Seewolf Guesthouse.
According to regional information, cross-country skiing equipment can be rented at Marschall Stuben and Pension Seewolf. To find out if skating equipment in the right size is available, you should check directly with the respective business in advance.
Prices, hours of operation, pickup locations, and accessibility are subject to change. Please verify this information immediately before your stay. This summary is current as of August 17, 2026.
From the vacation rentals to the biathlon facility
The official starting point is at the Biathlon Pond, not at the Gutenbrunn 133 vacation rentals. The GPS map is intentionally focused on the actual skating loop and does not show a fictional direct access route.
Plan your route and access separately. Take into account winter road conditions, cleared parking areas, current access rules, and possible closures. On-site signage takes precedence.
Book a vacation rental directly
Would you like to explore the skating and classic cross-country trails around Gutenbrunn? Our vacation apartments offer plenty of space, peace and quiet, and personalized service from Anna and Herbert.
You can check availability and book your stay right here:
Additional Information
Official tour description with GPX file:
https://www.waldviertel.at/touren/skating-in-der-biathlonanlage-gutenbrunn
Current cross-country ski trail report, trail map, and local rules:
Official Overview of Cross-Country Skiing in Gutenbrunn–Martinsberg:
https://www.waldviertel.at/ausflug-freizeit/langlaufen-in-gutenbrunn-martinsberg
FIS Code of Conduct for Cross-Country Skiers:
https://www.fis-ski.com/inside-fis/news/2023-24/fis-release-cross-country-code-of-conduct
Information from the Austrian Health Portal on cross-country skiing:
https://www.gesundheit.gv.at/leben/bewegung/sportarten/wintersport/skilanglaufen.html
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