Discover the best ski mountains on each of the seven continents, from the icy terrains of Antarctica to the high-altitude slopes of South America.
Explore where to find the most thrilling runs, stunning scenery, and unique experiences that each continent offers ski enthusiasts.
North America
- Whistler Blackcomb, Canada: Known for vast terrain and reliable snowfall, Whistler Blackcomb is one of the largest ski resorts in North America, offering varied trails and a lively après-ski scene.
- Aspen Snowmass, USA: Famous for its upscale charm and expert terrain, Aspen offers four mountains for skiing, ranging from beginner to expert levels, and has a high-end ski town vibe.
- Jackson Hole, USA: Known for steep, challenging slopes and beautiful backcountry options, Jackson Hole appeals to advanced skiers looking for a rugged experience.
- Aspen Snowmass in Colorado is a premier ski destination that combines world-class skiing with a lively cultural scene. The resort spans four distinct mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass.
South America
- Cerro Catedral, Argentina: Located in Patagonia, this mountain provides a mix of skiing and spectacular lake and mountain views. It’s the largest ski area in South America, with excellent terrain variety.
- Portillo, Chile: Known for its high-altitude skiing and sunny weather, Portillo is perfect for skiers looking for a remote and scenic setting, as well as challenging runs.
- Valle Nevado, Chile’s largest ski resort, offers world-class skiing with over 2,200 acres of skiable terrain nestled high in the Andes.
Europe
- Chamonix, France: Known as one of the oldest and most famous ski resorts, Chamonix is ideal for expert skiers and offers breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and vast off-piste options.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy often called the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is a premier ski resort in northern Italy known for its stunning alpine scenery, luxurious ambience, and rich history. Located in the UNESCO-listed Dolomite mountains, Cortina combines world-class skiing with Italian elegance, making it a favourite among both locals and international visitors.
- Zermatt, Switzerland: Dominated by the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt offers challenging runs, luxurious accommodations, and excellent après-ski activities.
- St. Anton, Austria: Known for its lively atmosphere and excellent snow conditions, St. Anton attracts skiers from around the world with its extensive runs and vibrant nightlife.
- Tignes/Val d’Isère in France is one of the most renowned ski areas in the world, located in the French Alps. This extensive ski destination, formerly known as the “Espace Killy” in honour of local Olympic champion Jean-Claude Killy, links the villages of Tignes and Val d’Isère to create a sprawling alpine playground with a remarkable variety of terrain and excellent snow conditions.
Asia
- Niseko, Japan: Famous for its powder snow and unique tree runs, Niseko is a favourite for powder hounds and offers a blend of Japanese culture and world-class skiing.
- Gulmarg, India: Known for its high-altitude skiing, Gulmarg offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and is a destination for adventurous skiers interested in backcountry terrain.
- Yongpyong, South Korea: One of the largest resorts in South Korea, Yongpyong hosted events during the 2018 Winter Olympics and offers varied terrain and reliable snowfall.
- Alshan Alpine Ski Resort, located in Alshan City within China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is renowned for its consistent snowfall and diverse terrain, making it a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
- Muju Deogyusan Ski Resort, nestled in South Korea’s picturesque Deogyusan National Park, is one of the country’s top winter destinations.
Africa
- Oukaïmeden, Morocco: The highest ski resort in Africa, located in the Atlas Mountains, Oukaïmeden offers a unique ski experience with views of the Sahara Desert and limited but high-quality snow runs.
- Tiffindell, South Africa: Known for being one of only two ski resorts in South Africa, Tiffindell has a dedicated ski culture and a good mix of beginner and intermediate slopes.
Australia
- Perisher, New South Wales: The largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, Perisher offers extensive runs and modern facilities, making it a top choice for Australian skiers.
- Mount Buller, Victoria: Known for its accessibility and family-friendly atmosphere, Mount Buller has varied terrain and excellent snow-making capabilities.
- Treble Cone in New Zealand is a renowned ski resort celebrated for its stunning lake and mountain views, challenging terrain, and quality snow.
Antarctica
- Vincent Massif: For extreme adventurers, skiing on the highest mountain in Antarctica offers an unforgettable experience in remote conditions, ideal for ski mountaineering.
- Union Glacier: Not a traditional resort, but a unique expedition experience where skiers can enjoy unparalleled views and untouched snow, skiing through pristine Antarctic terrain.
Skiing in Antarctica is unique and more complex than on any other continent. There are no traditional ski resorts here; instead, you’ll need to join a specialised expedition team.
These expeditions are often organised by companies like Aurora Expeditions, adventure consultants, Ice Axe Expeditions and others.
FAQ and Facts
Skiing Ancient Origins
Skiing is believed to have originated over 8,000 years ago in ancient Scandinavia and Russia. Some of the oldest skis discovered are around 5,000–8,000 years old and were found in Russia.
Alpine Skiing in the Olympics
Skiing was first included in the Winter Olympics in 1936 in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, with downhill and slalom events.
Most Popular Skiing Destinations
Europe leads in skiing destinations, with France, Austria, and Switzerland home to some of the world’s most famous resorts like Chamonix, St. Moritz, and Zermatt.
Japan is known for its unique powder skiing experience, especially in Hokkaido, with famously light and fluffy snow.
What’s the difference between skiing and snowboarding?
Skiing involves two skis, one on each foot, allowing more control over turns and speed.
Snowboarding uses a single board attached to both feet and relies on lateral movements. Skiing is generally easier for beginners due to its greater control while snowboarding can be more challenging to start but easier to master in the long term.
What’s the best age to start skiing?
Skiing can be enjoyed by people of almost any age. Children as young as 3–4 years old can begin skiing with proper instruction, while adults of any age can take up the sport as long as they’re in good physical condition.