The Imst Alpine Coaster is a marvel of alpine engineering, seamlessly blending high-speed thrills with the natural beauty of the Tyrolean Alps. The track is designed to follow the natural contours of the mountain, providing a ride that feels both wild and perfectly integrated into the landscape. Riders have full control over their speed using a central brake lever, allowing for a customized experience that can range from a leisurely scenic descent to an adrenaline-pumping race to the bottom.
At the base station in Hoch-Imst, visitors will find additional amenities including a swimming lake, hiking trails, and a family park, making it a comprehensive destination for a full day of outdoor recreation. The combination of accessible adventure and stunning Austrian scenery makes the Imst Alpine Coaster a standout attraction in the region.
Reasons to Visit
- Record-Breaking Length: Experience one of the longest alpine coasters in the world at 3.5 kilometers.
- Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Tyrolean Alps during the chairlift ride and the descent.
- Family-Friendly Adventure: Suitable for a wide range of ages, allowing families to share a thrilling experience together.
- Control Your Speed: The manual braking system lets you choose your own pace, catering to both thrill-seekers and cautious riders.
Things to Avoid
- Ignoring Safety Rules: Never stop on the track to take photos, as this poses a severe collision risk.
- Inappropriate Footwear: Avoid wearing flip-flops or loose sandals that could fall off during the ride.
- Peak Midday Crowds: Avoid arriving in the middle of the day during peak summer months to minimize wait times.
Local Transportation Tips
Imst is well-connected by public transport. You can reach the town via train (ÖBB) to the Imst-Pitztal station, followed by a local bus to Hoch-Imst. If driving, there is ample parking available at the base station of the Imster Bergbahnen.
Travel Etiquette
- Respect the Queue: Wait your turn patiently at the chairlift and coaster start points.
- Follow Operator Instructions: Always listen to the staff regarding boarding, spacing, and braking procedures.
- Leave No Trace: Dispose of all trash in designated bins to help preserve the pristine alpine environment.
Recommended Age Group
The Imst Alpine Coaster is designed to be an inclusive attraction, though safety regulations dictate specific age and height requirements.
- Babies (0-2 years): Not Recommended. Safety regulations strictly prohibit infants from riding the coaster.
- Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children aged 3 and older can ride as passengers with an adult. Those over 8 years old and taller than 1.25m can drive their own sled.
- Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The high speeds and thrilling curves make this a highly engaging and fun activity for teenagers.
- Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Adults will enjoy both the adrenaline rush of the coaster and the stunning alpine scenery.
- Seniors (65+ years): Neutral. While the chairlift is accessible and scenic, the coaster ride itself can be physically jarring and requires core strength to operate the brakes; it may not be suitable for those with back or heart conditions.
Accessibility Level: Medium
- Mobility: The coaster requires physical dexterity to operate the brake lever and sit upright. It is not wheelchair accessible.
- Chairlift: The chairlift can accommodate some mobility aids, allowing access to the alpine hut and viewpoints, but check with operators in advance.
- Visual/Hearing Impairments: Riders must be able to see the track ahead to brake safely and hear instructions from the operators.
Did You Know?
The Imst Alpine Coaster track features a 450-degree spiral, dropping riders through a massive loop that is one of the highlights of the 9-minute descent.
Cool Statistics
- Track Length: 3,535 meters
- Elevation Drop: 500 meters
- Highest Point Above Ground: 6 meters
- Number of Curves: 90
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