Ice karting evolved as a winter sports alternative to classic go-karting. As you may have guessed, the track is completely frozen. So, learning to control slips and slides is par for the course! As part of our series on Ski Activities, we’re taking a closer look at this winter racing pastime.
What is ice karting?
Ice karts are go-karts built to withstand winter weather conditions. Wheels are outfitted with studs to help drivers manoeuvre on ice, and engines are more powerful for an extra boost. Karts are usually designed for just one person—the driver, who steers and controls the speed.
Ice karting can be done just for the thrill of it, but it’s always more fun to race! Most recreational tracks allow for up to ten drivers at a time, so challenge your fellow holidaymakers! If you’re up to the challenge, let’s see what it takes to get behind the wheel.
Prerequisites for ice karting
No driving license necessary! Ice karting, unlike other ski-adjacent activities, doesn’t require any special skills and is accessible to young children at least 1.2m tall. (Do inquire before you book—some rinks have minimum age requirements.) It may take a couple of loops to get the hang of it, but you’ll soon be taking those turns like a pro.
A bit of focus goes a long way—so, keep your eyes on the road. Once you’ve got your handling and speed under control, see if you can pass your family and friends. Ice karting is really the perfect family activity—both you and your kids will make a great team, and no one will be bored on the side lines.
A typical ice karting session
You’ll receive an introductory safety briefing at the beginning of you session, but no lessons are required. You’ll learn by doing! Ice karting sessions are self-guided. Just put on your gear and go. It’s that easy. Here what a typical session looks like.
Self-guided sessions
Self-guided sessions last from 10-35 minutes and cost between 20 and 60 euros. While indoor tracks do exist, most are out in nature—that’s part of the experience! The average track is around 250-500m long, so you’ll have the time to do several loops.
Ice karting is generally available from December to February. Check the schedule at your ski resort.
Equipment and clothing for ice karting
You don’t need any fancy equipment to go ice karting, but basic safety is important. Ice karters can achieve speeds of up to 35km per hour and need to be properly protected in case of an accident. Don’t forget warm clothes as well. Facilities are usually outdoors, and the wind whips when you’re driving at high speeds!
Safety equipment
A helmet is essential to protect from head trauma in case of a crash. A ski helmet will do the trick. You’ll need either sunglasses or ski googles, otherwise with the reflection on the snow and ice, you won’t see much! If you don’t have your own ski helmet and googles, most ice karting providers have them on hand for rental.
Clothing
Ski wear is largely sufficient for ice karting. You won’t need your ski boots, of course. Snow boots or trainers are just fine. Even though runs last just 30 minutes or so, it’s important to stay warm and dry.
Here’s a quick recap of the clothing you’ll need:
-
A base layer: a thermal pants or leggings and a shirt
-
A mid-layer: either a jumper or a fleece jacket
-
A top layer: a ski jacket and gloves
-
Warm socks
-
Sun cream
-
A wool hat
-
Snow boots or trainers
Don’t know what to pack for your ski holiday? Check out our guide: What to Wear Skiing.
Where can I go ice karting in France?
- Val Thorens boasts the highest ice track in Europe, and it’s open from December to April. In addition to ice karting for all ages, adults with driving licenses can try their hand at driving all-terrain cars on the track!
-
Serre Chevalier’s ice track is in a beautiful, wooded location, so you’ll get your winter thrills with a view! While they don’t have karts for kids, they do have lots of racing challenges available and even a mini Grand Prix!
-
Tignes’ ice track is 800m long, so you’ll get a taste of all different kinds of twists and turns. They also have off-road vehicles available to drive if you’re feeling adventurous.
