The Top 25 Late-Season Ski Resorts
Most people think of ski holidays as only being in February and March. However, that is not the case. If you want to pay less, enjoy longer days and smaller crowds, you should consider these resorts listed by RunRex. They are among the finest late season resorts in the world.
1. Winter Park, USA
It has some of the steepest mogul fields in America. The resort receives quite a lot of snow, which means skiing can last up to late April. At the foot of the slopes, you will find a small village. However, most people prefer to stay a five-minute bus ride from the resort.
2. Les Deux Alpes, France
It is a long and narrow village on an elevated and remote col. It highest slopes are 3,570m. There is also a glacier that is popular for summer skiing. The skiing season usually runs until close to the end of April.
3. Val Thorens, France
It is part of the Trois Vallees. It currently holds the title of the highest resort in Europe. Consequently, you can expect good snow levels up until around May 1. The lift system has recently received some awesome upgrades.
4. Ischgl, Austria
The ski area is quite high. Most of the slopes are above 1,80n0 m. Since most of the runs face north, snow lingers on for quite a while. The resort is quite famous for its closing and opening parties.
5. Mammoth, USA
The resort is a six-hour drive from LA. It features world-class terrain and a long season. At times, the season can last up to mid-June.
6. Åre, Sweden
The resort is strung out on a frozen lake. It is the largest downhill ski area in Sweden. At this resort, the season can go up to Aril 20.
7. Stubai, Austria
It is situated on one of the most extensive glaciers in the Alps. One lift pass covers all the ski areas at this resort.
8. Livigno, Italy
Most of its pistes are easy, suited for intermediate skiers. However, it is also great for beginners.
9. Chamonix, France
The resort is renowned for being a mecca for extreme sports enthusiasts. It has some of the finest off-piste globally.
10. Sölden, Austria
It is quite high for Austria. There are two glaciers at this resort. You can get good snow as late as May.
11. Verbier, Switzerland
Not only does it have altitude, it also has some great snow-making facilities. It is the most popular resort in Switzerland, even during the late season.
12. Tignes, France
At this resort, there are five villages and a season that goes into late May. Even in summer, you can go skiing on the glacier, with runs that are over 20 km.
13. Zermatt, Switzerland
This Swiss resort lies in the shadow of the Matterhorn. It has lifts that take you to an elevation of 3,899 m. You can ski until early may and extend into the summer on the glacier.
14. Banff, Canada
It has one of the longest ski seasons on the North American continent. With three ski villages, it holds the reputation of one of the finest places for late season skiing.
15. Gassan, Japan
The resort is located on the Japanese island of Honshu. It gets so much snow that it does not open until April. The lifts continue running until late July.
16. Whistler-Blackcomb, Canada
Since it is located close to a glacier, skiers can stay here until late June. It also has great snow making facilities to ensure there is always powder.
17. Saas Fee, Switzerland
For the late season skiers, there is still plenty of snow. Unlike some other resorts, it still maintains an authentic alpine charm.
18. Cervinia, Italy
Located on the other side of the Matterhorn, is the Cervinia in Italy. At 3,480m, it is one of the highest resorts in Europe. Besides that, it is also quite affordable.
19. St Anton, Austria
At an altitude of 2,811m, the resort holds snow well, despite the sunshine. There is a spring sporting highlight at this resort known as the White Thrill on April 25 each year.
20. Val d’Isere, France
This high attitude resort links with the Tignes, forming the Espace Killy. It features a glacier, which means you can ski all summer.
21. Lech, Austria
Although it does no feature a glacier, its top slopes are high enough to hold snow up until late spring. You can get a good discount if you book for late March or April.
22. Obergurgl, Austria
It is the highest in the country. Its broad, open slopes are enticing even during the late season.
23. Verbier, Switzerland
The resort is renowned for the quality late season snow. Despite its south facing slopes, it retains snow because of the snow making facilities.
24. La Plagne, France
The resort has extensive and uncrowded ski areas. Whether you want to glacier ski above the clouds or you need tree-lined runs, it is the place to be.
25. Crystal Mountain Resort, US
The resort, located in Washington State, US sometimes has its ski season extend well into late April. It has a great lift system and terrain suitable for skiers of all levels.