Kick-off for “Jodlalm Neu”
26/May/2026
A key milestone has been reached: Following the successful completion of the building permit process, the "Jodlalm Neu" project can now enter the construction phase. The St. Johann mountain lifts are thus sending a strong signal for the future of the ski resort.
At the heart of the project is a significant improvement to the route: The new 10-person gondola lift will extend directly to the summit of Harschbichl (1,603 m). This eliminates the previous mountain station at the Jodlalm, creating a continuous, comfortable connection to the summit area for the first time. "This is a real leap in quality for our ski area. We are creating a direct, high-performance route without detours or bottlenecks," emphasizes Managing Director Michael Gritsch.
The new gondola lift replaces the existing double chairlift from 1981, which was previously considered a bottleneck in the ski area. With a capacity of up to 2,400 people per hour and a travel time of approximately seven minutes, the new lift will provide significantly greater comfort and efficiency.
Supervisory Board Chairman Anton Pletzer : “With the new lift, we are not only fulfilling a promise, but also opening a new chapter for the sustainable security and future of the St. Johann mountain lifts. This is the largest lift investment in the Kitzbühel district this year.”
Mayor Stefan Seiwald: “In close cooperation with all parties involved, we initiated this important project for the company and are now delighted with its implementation. The new lift is scheduled to go into operation in time for the upcoming winter season.”
Tourism Association Chairman Josef Grander: “The new lift significantly enhances the offerings and, moreover, is an important pillar for high-quality and sustainable year-round tourism. Accordingly, the entire region stands behind this flagship project.”
Maximum comfort – ideal for families and ski schools.
The modern cabins offer a considerable increase in comfort and safety. The new lift offers particular advantages for families and ski schools: While children could not ride alone on the previous two-person chairlift, the gondola lift now allows for safe and straightforward use, even for families. This will make the Jodlalm ski area fully family-friendly for the first time.
Optimized route and modern technology
: As part of the new construction, the route will also be realigned. The valley station will be moved to the northwest, while the mountain station will be located further uphill, directly at the Harschbichl. This will significantly improve not only accessibility but also the connection to the existing network of slopes.
Sustainable implementation and accompanying measures:
In addition to the new lift, the project also includes targeted adjustments to the slopes and extensive ecological compensation measures. The goal is to implement the project as gently as possible, in harmony with nature. The total investment is currently estimated at around €22 million. Commissioning is planned for the start of the season on December 6, 2026.
Memorabilia with history:
The new construction also marks the end of the Jodlalm chairlift era. However, a piece of this history can be preserved: The chairs from the existing lift will be available from mid-May. Those interested can reserve their personal chair in advance by emailing info@bergbahnen-stjohann.at