Family-friendly junior bike trails on Reiteralm with blooming meadow, alpine hut, kids riding bikes and Dachstein range behind. | © Reiteralm Bergbahnen
Family-friendly junior bike trails on Reiteralm with blooming meadow, alpine hut, kids riding bikes and Dachstein range behind. | © Reiteralm Bergbahnen
Lisa Stocker

Trails & bike parks for children – mountain bike adventures for the whole family

A day on the bike in the mountains is pure action and relaxation for many people, so it’s only natural that parents want to gradually introduce their children to the thrill of biking. In Ski amadé, perfectly prepared trails and bike parks await you. Here you can find out why mountain biking with children is a fantastic idea, what makes a good trail for kids, where to find the best bike parks, and much more.

Why mountain biking with children is a fantastic idea

Exercise, nature, and family time – the advantages at a glance

Mountain biking combines sport and nature in a playful way like no other activity. Children learn how to handle their bike, improve their coordination, and build self-confidence at the same time. Parents get to enjoy quality time outdoors – and watch with pride as their kids grow in confidence on the trails.

At what age does mountain biking make sense for children?

Many bike parks in Ski amadé are suitable for children from the age of two. Thanks to special practice areas with flat trails, pump tracks and mini lines, even the youngest can try their first rides. Of course, the right equipment is essential – a helmet should always be worn.

Important safety aspects for young bikers

Safety is a top priority in all Ski amadé bike parks: child-friendly trails, trained guides, rental helmets and protective equipment on site ensure a solid foundation for a safe playground. Parks also make sure that the lines are never too steep or too technically demanding. This way, children can gain their first bike experiences with plenty of fun but without risk.

Child rides red mountain bike with helmet and pink shirt on pump track bumps | © Shuttleberg

What makes good trails for children?

Good trails for children are varied and, at the same time, offer a high level of safety. Here are the key points:

  • Gentle gradients: This keeps the fun high and the risk low.
  • Practice features: Small obstacles, rollers and berms provide action and enhance riding skills.
  • Pump tracks: Perfect for practising balance and flow.
  • Lift access: Especially for younger children, it’s great to get back to the start without too much uphill effort.

The difference between trails, bike parks and pump tracks

  • Trails are usually natural, flowy tracks, often suitable for families too.
  • Bike parks offer multiple trails, kids’ areas, lift access and usually infrastructure such as bike rentals.
  • Pump tracks are short circuits with rollers and berms – ideal for working on balance and flow.

 

Plan for breaks and relaxation

Rest areas, refreshment spots and cosy places to take a breather can be found in all the parks. This gives little bikers time to reflect on their experiences, while the whole family can recharge for the next trail.

The best bike parks for children in Austria

Ski amadé has countless highlights waiting for you – here are the top bike parks for little adventurers:

  • woom bike area Wagrain
    Located right at the mid-station of the Flying Mozart gondola, this area offers 5,900 m² of child-friendly trails, obstacles and drops. Young bikers can practise balancing and jumping skills here. Brave kids will love the rollers, berms and flow trails with up to 8% gradients. Perfect for children aged 2 to 14.
  • Pumptrack & Pump Trail Shuttleberg
    Right by the Lumberjack Bio Mountain Restaurant, there’s a 44-metre pump track waiting for all bikers and skaters. Along the forest road to Kleinarl, there are additional wide sections with features for bikers and e-bikers – all easily accessible with the Champion Shuttle.
  • Bike Park Schladming
    A diverse range of tracks, including the Flowline, Uphill Flow Trail, Jumpline and several downhill tracks, guarantees maximum biking fun – for beginners and pro downhillers alike.
  • Reiteralm Junior Trails
    Near the Preunegg Jet mountain station, young mountain bike fans will find two lines to help them prepare for the Reiteralm Trails. A magic carpet lift conveniently brings kids back to the start.
  • Pumptrack Dorfgastein
    Right next to the valley station of the Gipfelbahn Fulseck, this modern circuit with rollers and berms offers a unique riding experience. With targeted weight shifts, bikes move almost by themselves – for maximum flow!
  • MTB Flow Trail “Flow One” Hochkönig
    More than three kilometres of fun from the mountain station of the Natrun cable car to the valley. Suitable for beginners, families and single-trail pros.
  • Flow Trail Hochkönig
    Starting from the Bürglalm, a family-friendly trail leads through idyllic landscapes with views of the Hochkönig – adrenaline and nature at its best.
  • Pumptrack & Skill Area Mühlbach
    Below the Scheppalalm, a variety of elements like Straight Balance, Up & Down Balance, Step, Kicker, Curve, Rainbow and seesaw await – perfect for practising and having fun.
  • Bike Park Panorama Großarltal
    In a central location right next to the cycle path, this bike park offers a trail park with four lines of varying difficulty and a dirt park with three lines, featuring berms, tables, a seesaw and an uphill trail. Natural obstacles such as roots, balance elements, rollers and berms provide the ideal conditions for improving riding skills and preparing for single-trail rides.
A boy wearing a helmet rides a Woom bike on a gravel trail with grassy hills, forest, and cable cars in the background. | © Snow Space Salzburg - Chris Eder

Criteria for child-friendly bike parks

  • Special kids’ areas
  • Rental bikes and protective gear on site or nearby
  • Child-friendly trails with gentle gradients
  • Safety concepts with trained guides
  • Infrastructure: toilets, restaurants and rest areas

Tips for your child’s first mountain biking adventure

Equipment for the trails – what to bring

Alongside the bike and helmet, gloves and protective gear are highly recommended, especially for first attempts. A water bottle, snacks and possibly a change of clothes should also be packed. Many parks offer rental gear – saving space in the car.

Practice & motivation – how to get started

At first, patience is key. Children learn quickly, but fun should always come first. Shared breaks, small successes and plenty of praise are the best motivation for young bikers. Once they’ve got the hang of it, the whole family can enjoy the experience together and create lasting memories.

Frequently asked questions about trails & bike parks for children

Which bike park is best for beginners?

All parks in Ski amadé have child-friendly beginner areas. Simply have a look at them all and decide which one suits your needs best.

Are there rental bikes especially for children?

Yes, all parks have rental stations with children’s bikes and protective equipment either on site or nearby. This saves space and ensures a safe ride.

How much do bike parks for children in Austria cost?

Prices vary depending on the park. Many offer special family deals and combined tickets with lift rides. Tip: check the websites of the mountain railways for up-to-date information.

What’s the difference between a pump track and a trail?

Pump tracks are short circuits with rollers and berms, perfect for practising balance. Trails are longer routes through nature with small obstacles and lots of flow.

How safe are bike parks for children?

All parks employ trained staff, have child-friendly tracks and rental equipment. This means parents can watch their kids with peace of mind – or even join in themselves.

Are there guided courses for children?

Yes, Ski amadé offers several bike schools that run special courses for kids, often also as family packages.

Lisa Stocker

3 article
Read more