Raten

Raten’s snowkiting terrain is on mountain-pass meadows and adjacent hillsides near the pass, with a snow-dependent surface that can range from powder conditions (when snow quality is good) to limited sessions when coverage is thin. The working wind directions are consistently reported as SSW and SW, with gustiness described as moderate and wind reliability as medium; conditions can also become turbulent near tree lines and buildings. Safety is a priority here. High-voltage power lines sit at the edge of the field—do not approach or fly near them. The area also involves obstacles such as trees, fences, and pedestrians/bystanders, and it overlaps with winter movement like cross-country ski tracks and nearby lift activity. Keep your kite and flight path well away from the lines and avoid areas used by skiers and lift operations. Planning matters for both weather and access. The spot is small, and it depends on having at least 20–30 cm of snow (depending on surface conditions), so it may be only a partial or “dusting” type setup during marginal events. Parking is available at the restaurant on the Raten pass, but it can fill up quickly on weekends when families and hikers are out.