Markstein is an alpine ski resort in the Hautes Vosges, sitting between 1,020 and 1,268 metres on the Route des Crêtes. Here is what matters most to a skier: number of pistes, lifts, passes and the alpine coaster in winter. For general access to the site, the Route des Crêtes or how it differs from the Grand Ballon, see our Markstein and Grand Ballon guide.
The Markstein alpine ski area
The official operator lists 13 pistes for all levels, from beginner to advanced skier, served by 8 drag lifts. A dedicated beginner area brings together 3 green runs and 1 blue run, kept apart from the rest of the domain: that’s where first turns happen before moving on to the longer runs.
The resort spans 1,020 to 1,268 metres, along the Route des Crêtes. A network of snow cannons backs up snow cover on the busiest sectors throughout the season, according to the official site. Daytime opening hours are listed as 9am to 5pm, with night skiing on Tuesdays and Fridays from 6pm to 10pm.
The ski area is separate from the neighbouring Grand Ballon, which has its own snow report. If you’re weighing up the two sectors or the Markstein-Grand Ballon cross-country area, our Markstein and Grand Ballon guide sets out the difference before you pick a pass.
Passes and prices for 2025-2026
The price list published by the operator splits the season into a low season (weekdays outside school holidays) and a peak season (weekends, public holidays, school holidays).
In low season, the adult day pass for the full Markstein domain is listed at 20 euros, against 18 euros for 4 hours and 17 euros for night skiing. The child rate (5-14 years) drops to 16 euros for the day, the reduced rate to 19 euros.
In peak season, the adult day pass rises to 25 euros, 22 euros for 4 hours and 18 euros for night skiing. Children pay 22 euros for the day and the reduced rate stands at 24 euros.
A cheaper beginner area exists for newcomers: from 15 euros for a half-day on weekdays, according to the price list checked. The 2025-2026 season pass is listed at 320 euros for an adult, 260 euros for a child and 285 euros at the reduced rate. A 2-euro keycard and optional 3-euro insurance are added to the price of the pass.
These amounts correspond to the 2025-2026 season as checked in July 2026. A resort usually updates its price list each new season: check the official online ticket office before setting your budget, especially if you’re planning a stay for winter 2026-2027.
To compare with another small Vosges resort, our piece on Ventron, the family resort covers a similarly sized domain with its own pricing.
The alpine coaster: the extra winter activity
Another attraction on site, running alongside the skiing: the alpine coaster, a track of 1.2 km with 70 m of vertical drop counting 13 bends, with a top speed listed at up to 40 km/h.
Access is set from age 8 to drive and age 3, from 90 cm tall, to ride as a passenger. The solo or duo rate starts at 7.50 euros per run, with tiered deals: 35 euros for 5 runs and 70 euros for 10 runs plus 1 free. Groups of 40 people or more get a rate of 6 euros per run.
In winter, opening depends heavily on weather conditions. The operator lists Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1:30pm to 5:30pm (5pm in winter time), and Sundays and public holidays from 10:30am to 6:30pm (5:30pm in winter time). These slots extend during Zone B school holidays. From December to February, closing time moves up to 5pm. Call the site manager at 07 61 08 60 94 before heading over if the weather looks uncertain.
Where to learn or improve before you go
Markstein keeps its beginner area for newcomers, but real progression is usually built elsewhere. If you’re planning a first family ski week, our guide to learning to ski from La Bresse covers ski schools, choosing lessons and the budget for a first week on a larger domain.
For skiers staying on the Moselle valley side, Le Thillot remains a useful stop on the route between La Bresse and the Markstein sector, with its own services and Saturday market.
Planning your day at Markstein
A day of skiing at Markstein comes together around three things worth checking beforehand: the day’s snow report, the current price list and, if the alpine coaster is on the plan, the weather that determines whether it opens. The hours, pistes and prices set out here change from one season to the next: the domain’s official page remains the reference to check on the day, especially outside holiday periods when the slots narrow.
The La Bresse guide, winter edition
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Frequently asked questions
How many pistes does the Markstein alpine ski area have?
The official website lists 13 pistes for all levels, served by 8 drag lifts, with a beginner area made up of 3 green runs and 1 blue run.
How much is a day pass at Markstein?
On the 2025-2026 price list, an adult day pass ranges from 20 euros in low season to 25 euros in peak season (weekends, holidays). Child and reduced rates also apply. Check the current price list on the official ticket office page before you go.
Does the alpine coaster run in winter at Markstein?
Yes, weather permitting. The 1.2 km track with 70 m of vertical drop opens on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, with extended hours during Zone B school holidays.