New Hintertux Half Pipe Concept Aiming to Rekindle Enthusiasm Opening This May
New Hintertux Half Pipe Concept Aiming to Rekindle Enthusiasm Opening This May
Published : 19-Apr-2026 09:30
The number of halfpipes in operation around the world has been falling for decades, partly because of the amount of effort and thus cost creating and maintaining the structures entails, but also because those that remain are so big and intimidating that fewer pipe newbies are taking them on.
That's the theory from planners at the famous Betterpark Hintertux which is a major draw, particularly in late spring and when it reopens in early autumn when most of the other parks around the world have melted/not yet been built.
Betterpark will unveil and all new beginner‑friendly halfpipe on the Hintertux Glacier this spring, with it's all new design but full-scale "Fun Pipe" to the public from 1–25 May 2026.
The pilot project introduces a redesigned pipe intended to make halfpipe riding more accessible. Built with 3.5‑metre walls, a 120‑metre length and a rounder, more forgiving transition, the four‑metre‑high structure is designed to offer smoother, more controlled riding for all abilities. The concept has been developed by shaper Stefan Plattner, who is constructing the feature using the new PistenBully 400 Park Winch and Zaugg 13‑ft Pipe Designer.
The Fun Pipe will be groomed daily and open to all riders, from first‑timers to those working on progression.
Two public event weekends will bookend the operating period: an Opening Weekend on 2 May featuring High Air and One Hit Wonder sessions with prizes from Pure Surfcamps and Salomon, and a Closing Weekend on 24 May with a family‑friendly contest supported by Nitro and Volcom. Sessions will be held in collaboration with freestyle collective The Ästhetiker.
Hintertux officials say the project, "…aims to broaden participation in halfpipe riding and create a more inclusive freestyle environment."
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