Summer Ski Destinations: 20 Amazing Spots That Will Wow You

Can’t Live Without Shredding Even in Summer? Here’s where to go!

If you’re a snow sports enthusiast who can’t bear to wait until winter, these top summer ski destinations are perfect for you. From the majestic Swiss Alps to the rugged Andes, these destinations offer year-round shredding opportunities and breathtaking alpine views. Get ready to explore the best spots to ski in summer and keep the adrenaline pumping all year long.

Keep an eye on our Adventure Group Ski Trips as we may have ski adventures to these summer destinations on offer!!

2. Saas-Fee, Switzerland – Freestyle Playground

• Location: Swiss Alps
• Elevation: 3,600 meters

Saas-Fee is the spot for year-round snow. The Allalin Glacier offers 20 kilometers of pistes and a rad snow park for freestylers. It’s a haven for intermediate skiers and boarders. Post-ski, dive into activities like biking, hiking, or even brewing your own glacier beer at the local brewery. The charm of Saas-Fee is simply irresistible, making it one of the top summer ski destinations.

3. Les 2 Alpes, France – Glacier Glory

• Location: French Alps
• Elevation: 3,600 meters

Les 2 Alpes is home to Europe’s largest skiable glacier, open from late April to early July. The 120-hectare glacier offers a mix of runs for all levels and a top-notch snow park. Beyond skiing, enjoy golf, tennis, horse riding, and mountain biking. This place is an outdoor enthusiast’s utopia with a vibrant year-round atmosphere, ideal for summer skiing.

4. Tignes, France – Freestyle Heaven

• Location: Grande Motte Glacier, French Alps
• Elevation: 3,456 meters

Tignes is perfect for a mixed-ability group, offering a variety of blue, red, and black runs. The glacier has some of the best freestyle parks around, with innovative glacial snow guns keeping conditions prime. Beyond skiing, Tignes offers hiking, mountain biking, and adrenaline-pumping activities like “Hot Jumping” into the lake. The thrill is endless in Tignes, a fantastic summer ski destination.

5. Powder Paradise at Hintertux Glacier in Austria

• Location: Near Hintertuxer Gletscher resort, Tyrolean Zillertal Valley
• Elevation: 3,250 meters

Hintertux Glacier is legendary in the European freeride scene. With 20 kilometers of primo skiable terrain for all levels, it’s open 365 days a year. Killer glacier lifts, perfect summer conditions, and rad terrain parks make it a must-visit. Connect to nearby Finkenberg and Mayrhofen for even more runs, and don’t miss Nature’s Ice Palace and frozen waterfalls. The allure of Hintertux is irresistible, making it one of the best summer ski destinations.

6. Alpine Bliss at Mölltal Glacier in Austria

• Location: Hohe Tauern National Park, near Flattach village
• Elevation: 3,122 meters

Mölltal Glacier is a go-to for serious riders. With trails from 2,800 to 3,122 meters, this spot offers sick powder and 300 days of sunshine. The Glacier Express and Eissee Gondola get you to the goods. Enjoy epic views of Gastein Valley and hit up the Eissee restaurant for panoramic eats. One pass gets you access to Mölltaler Gletscher and Ankogel Mallnitz, with 24 kilometers of awesome slopes. The serenity of Mölltal is unparalleled, making it a top summer ski destination.

7. Stubai Glacier – The Freeride Kingdom in Austria

• Location: Tyrol, Austria
• Elevation: 3,210 meters

Stubai Glacier is Austria’s biggest glacier ski area, guaranteeing top-notch snow from June to October. Snowpark Stubai Zoo is a hotspot for freestyle fiends, while the Schaufeljoch platform serves up 360-degree stoke. Explore the 30-meter ice cave at Eisgrat station, and refuel at one of the many mountain huts or the Jochdohle restaurant with killer views. Stubai Glacier is a true winter wonderland and a premier summer ski destination.

8. Cervinia, Italy – Borderline Bliss

• Location: Italian side of the Matterhorn
• Elevation: 3,500 meters

Cervinia, sharing its slopes with Zermatt, offers the largest summer ski area in Europe. The Gravity snow park attracts freestylers from around the globe. Off the slopes, you can enjoy paragliding or visit the Glacier Palace for stunning ice sculptures. The enchantment of Cervinia is unforgettable, making it one of the top summer ski destinations.

9. Passo Stelvio, Italy – Historic Runs

• Location: Stelvio Pass, near Bormio
• Elevation: 3,450 meters

Passo Stelvio is a classic summer skiing destination with 20 kilometers of slopes and a cross-country piste. The surrounding Stelvio National Park offers extensive outdoor activities, from hiking to exploring historic sites in Bormio. The legacy of Passo Stelvio is timeless, making it a must-visit summer ski destination.

10. Mammoth Mountain – Legendary USA Shredding

• Location: California, USA
• Elevation: 3,500 meters

Mammoth Mountain is where the party’s at for summer skiing. With vast terrain and warm vibes, you can ride in a t-shirt and still hit gnarly lines. Mix up your day with paddle boarding or waterfall hikes. The free bus service makes it easy to hop around, and 25 lifts mean you’ll never get bored. The energy of Mammoth Mountain is electrifying, making it one of the top summer ski destinations in the USA.

11. Timberline Lodge at Mt. Hood – Endless Stoke in North America

• Location: Oregon, USA
• Elevation: 3,000 meters

Timberline Lodge in Oregon is iconic. This historic spot offers year-round riding, featured in the 1980 film “The Shining.” It’s family-friendly and packed with summer activities like hiking and biking. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or just chilling, Timberline delivers. The charm of Timberline Lodge is enduring, making it a top summer ski destination.

12. Arapahoe Basin – Colorado’s Season King

• Location: Colorado, USA
• Elevation: 3,900 meters

Arapahoe Basin, sitting at 13,000 feet, is all about quality over quantity. With nearly 1500 acres and 147 trails, it’s a playground for serious skiers. Check out il Rifugio Bistro at 12,500 feet for mind-blowing views and top-notch grub. The majesty of Arapahoe Basin is awe-inspiring, making it a top summer ski destination.

13. Summer Ski Holidays in Cerro Catedral – Argentina

• Location: Bariloche, Argentina
• Elevation: 2,388 meters

Cerro Catedral is South America’s premier spot for epic ski sessions. With a blend of city life and mountain terrain, the views of Nahuel Huapi Lake and the national park are unbeatable. Backcountry options and varied runs make it a global favorite. The allure of Cerro Catedral is captivating, making it a top summer ski destination.

14. Valle Nevado in Chile – The Andes Awaits

• Location: Andes Mountains, Chile
• Elevation: 3,025 meters

Valle Nevado, known for its killer snow quality, offers an extensive range of runs from beginner to expert. With 39 runs and prime off-piste options, it’s a must-ride. The south-facing slopes ensure perfect powder, accessible via 14 lifts. The splendor of Valle Nevado is breathtaking, making it a top summer ski destination.

15. Portillo in Chile – High-Altitude Thrills

• Location: Near the Chilean-Argentinian border
• Elevation: 2,880 meters

Portillo is famous for its top-notch snow and diverse terrain. Runs like Roca Jack and Garganta offer thrilling descents and stunning views. The turquoise Laguna del Inca at the base adds a magical touch. The enchantment of Portillo is unforgettable, making it one of the top summer ski destinations.

16. Las Leñas in Argentina – Freeride Nirvana

• Location: Western Mendoza region, Argentina
• Elevation: 3,430 meters

Las Leñas is the spot for reliable powder and diverse terrain, from easy slopes to extreme runs. With 27 runs and elevations from 2,240 to 3,430 meters, it’s a paradise for skiers of all levels. The family-friendly vibes and variety of activities make it a top pick for a summer ski trip. The exhilaration of Las Leñas is unmatched, making it one of the premier summer ski destinations.

17. The Remarkables, New Zealand – A True Alpine Gem

Location: South Island, near Queenstown
Elevation: 1,943 meters

The Remarkables lives up to its name, offering breathtaking views and a versatile ski experience just a short drive from Queenstown. With a skiable area of nearly 1,000 acres, it caters to all levels, but it particularly shines for beginners and intermediates with wide-open groomers and a well-developed terrain park. The resort is also famous for its off-piste adventures and challenging back bowls. Despite the lack of on-mountain accommodation, the efficient transfer system from Queenstown makes it an accessible and attractive option for a day on the slopes.

18. Coronet Peak, New Zealand – The Local’s Favorite

Location: South Island, near Queenstown
Elevation: 1,649 meters

Coronet Peak is a premier destination for skiers looking for convenience and variety. Known for its excellent grooming and the longest night skiing in New Zealand, this resort offers something for everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers. Its proximity to Queenstown (just 20 minutes away) makes it a bustling hub, especially in the mornings as locals hit the slopes before work. The modern facilities, including extensive snowmaking capabilities, ensure a reliable and enjoyable experience throughout the season.

19. Perisher, Australia – Australia’s Alpine Giant

Location: Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
Elevation: 2,054 meters

Perisher is Australia’s largest ski resort, boasting an expansive terrain that covers four interconnected areas: Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Blue Cow, and Guthega. With over 1,200 hectares of skiable terrain and a vibrant après-ski scene, Perisher caters to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The resort is well-equipped with modern lifts and extensive snowmaking systems, making it a top choice for both domestic and international visitors during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter.

20. Thredbo, Australia – A Steep and Deep Playground

Location: Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
Elevation: 2,037 meters

Thredbo is renowned for its challenging runs and longest vertical in Australia, attracting skiers and snowboarders who crave steep terrain. The resort offers a lively village atmosphere with excellent dining, nightlife, and accommodation options. Thredbo’s diverse terrain and modern facilities make it a favorite among those looking for a more intense ski experience, with plenty of opportunities for advanced skiers to push their limits.

Embrace Year-Round Shredding at These Summer Ski Destinations

Whether you’re chasing the steepest runs, the deepest powder, or the most breathtaking alpine scenery, these top 16 summer ski destinations promise unforgettable experiences for every passionate skier and snowboarder. Grab your gear and embark on a thrilling summer adventure!

Share in the comments which freeriding spots you’d like to see featured in a detailed Destination Guide, and we’ll do our best to include them in future posts! 👇