Streif

Streif is a downhill ski course on the Hahnenkamm mountain near Kitzbühel in Tyrol, Austria. It is best known for hosting the Hahnenkammrennen, a premier event on the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit. The course runs along the mountain’s steep terrain and is widely regarded as one of the most challenging downhill runs in the sport.

The layout covers roughly three kilometers in length with a substantial vertical drop, and skiers reach very high speeds on its upper and mid sections. The route features a combination of high-speed straights, abrupt turns, steep pitches, and multiple jumps. Among its most famous segments are the Hausbergkante, the Mausefalle (the “Mouse Trap”), the Steilhang, the Traverse, and the Zielschuss near the finish. The combination of geometry and speed has made Streif a focal point of technical and risk assessment in downhill racing.

Historically, Streif and the Hahnenkammrennen have drawn global attention since the early 20th century and have contributed to the course’s reputation for danger and excitement. Over the years, safety measures such as improved barrier netting, snow conditioning, and medical preparedness have been implemented while maintaining the course’s demanding character. Streif remains a central fixture of the World Cup season and a benchmark for downhill performance.