520—that’s the perfect way for skiers to declare their love!

Canada: Silver Star Mountain Resort in British Columbia(Silver Star, British Columbia)

You’ve probably never heard of Silver Star Mountain Resort. This quaint, family-friendly, and intimate ski resort often gets overshadowed by the more famous Whistler Blackcomb, located farther west. Nestled in the sun-drenched Okanagan Valley, about a 4.5-hour drive east of Vancouver, Silver Star may be small, but its offerings rival those of much larger ski destinations. Perched atop a 6,282-foot peak, the resort features just six major lift systems—plus a T-bar and a zipline-style "crazy carpet"—but these effortlessly whisk visitors across a sprawling 3,065-acre terrain dotted with 115 uniquely named slopes, each boasting an impressive vertical drop of up to 2,500 feet. With an annual snowfall averaging 275 inches, the snow here tends to be lighter and drier compared to Whistler’s famously wet, coastal powder—especially during the typically windy and challenging month of January. Yet even on less-than-ideal days, you can still enjoy breathtaking backcountry skiing on the resort’s stunning 62-mile network of trails—many of which are best accessed via the convenient lifts. Meanwhile, the charming village at the base of the mountain offers a laid-back, artsy vibe, complete with architecturally striking, brightly painted buildings that exude contemporary flair. Don’t miss the rustic hot springs, a delightful bakery, and a handful of cozy eateries—but beyond that, it’s all about soaking in the serene, alpine atmosphere. For big-time après-ski revelry, though, you’ll need to head elsewhere.

Morocco: Oukmiden and Michlifen(Oukaimeden and Michlifen)

The undulating ski slopes stretch a total of 12 miles, and the Oukaimeden Ski Resort, perched at an impressive 10,000-foot elevation, boasts North Africa’s highest-altitude cable car. Just a 40-minute drive away lies Bab Ourika, the nearest luxury resort, featuring 18 guest rooms designed in a striking Berber castle-inspired architectural style. However, Michael Diamond, a representative from Heritage Tours (heritagetours.com), a Morocco-focused travel agency, noted in an email that they can arrange day trips from Marrakesh to the ski resort—though Marrakesh itself is a 90-minute journey away. The prime skiing season typically falls in January and February, though as Mr. Diamond cautions, "it’s tough to predict; some years you only get a few weeks of decent snowfall." Further north, near Fez, you’ll find Michlifen, a mountain resort nestled on lower-elevation slopes. While it doesn’t receive the same heavy snowfall as Oukaimeden, the recently reopened Michlifen Ifrane Hotel (michlifenifrane.com) has quickly drawn attention with its palace-like opulence. Still, the hotel acknowledges that guests here often prioritize soaking in its thermal baths over hitting the slopes.

South Korea:O2

Nestled deep within the Taebaek Mountains in northeastern South Korea lies a resort called O2, which opened four years ago and is perfect for family vacations. The crisp, invigorating mountain air perfectly captures the essence of the resort’s name—after all, oxygen’s chemical formula is indeed O2! While the slopes here aren’t particularly challenging, they boast some of the longest runs in Korea: one trail stretches an impressive 2 miles from the summit at 4,659 feet all the way down to cozy little cabins at the base. The breathtaking scenery along the way makes it an absolute delight—even for intermediate skiers. Located in one of South Korea’s snowiest regions and enjoying the country’s longest winter season, O2 Resort gets especially busy during peak times—from December through March. Accommodations are clean yet simple, but if you’re craving more than just kimchi, be sure to ask your hosts for rooms with traditional Korean heated floors (ondol) and a comfortable, cushion-like mattress known as a "yo." This unique, futon-style bed is placed directly on the warm floorboards.

Japan: Niseko United Ski Resort(Niseko United)

Pristine and vast, with rolling mountains stretching endlessly—Hokkaido (Sapporo) is to Japan what Montana is to the United States. Large pickup trucks rumble past sprawling livestock farms, while crystal-clear streams glisten like fine sake, their waters teeming with plump fish ready to snap up a passing fly. As winter arrives, the frigid Siberian winds collide head-on with moisture-laden air from the Sea of Japan, triggering massive snowfalls almost overnight. From then on, Sapporo, Hokkaido’s vibrant capital, begins ferrying ski enthusiasts via shuttle buses to the renowned Niseko ski resort. Located just north of Tokyo, Sapporo is easily accessible by plane—taking about an hour and a half to reach. Nestled atop the 4,291-foot-high Niseko Annupuri mountain, the Niseko ski area boasts four luxurious holiday villas. Don’t let the seemingly modest elevation fool you: once you ascend to the summit, you’ll discover some of the steepest and most challenging slopes in the world, with a staggering 3,084-foot vertical drop and runs stretching up to 30 miles long—each aptly named “Snorkel” or something similarly adventurous, perfectly hinting at what awaits in this region that averages an astonishing 45 feet of snowfall annually. Lunch? Forget hot dogs at the resort—instead, take a break halfway up the mountain, kick off your skis, and wander casually into a cozy Bo-yo-so-style cabin. There, savor a steaming bowl of sansai soba—a hearty mountain vegetable buckwheat noodle dish—served with a few small cups of crisp local sake. And when evening rolls around, treat yourself to a rejuvenating soak in one of the nearby Rangetsu Onsen hot springs, where six open-air mineral baths await. Among them, one bath even features silky-soft mineral mud, offering the ultimate post-ski relaxation experience.

United States: Vail, Colorado(Vail, Colorado)

When U.S. Army veterans Pete Seibert and Earl Eaton were hiking in search of a ski spot on an obscure mountain in Colorado back in 1957, they stumbled upon vast expanses of pristine alpine terrain—what would eventually become today’s Vail Ski Resort, one of America’s largest and most celebrated ski destinations. Fast forward 50 years to this winter, and Vail is gearing up to celebrate its 50th anniversary with a host of exciting events. In addition to the usual skiing action across its 193 slopes, the resort will also play host to two multi-day high-altitude competitions in February. The WinterMountain Games, set to take place from February 8 to 10, will feature outdoor gear giant Eddie Bauer as a special guest. Highlights include ice climbing, alpine skiing, snowshoeing, and even snow-based mountain biking. Meanwhile, the world’s oldest snowboarding event, the Burton U.S. Open, will make its long-awaited return to Vail, moving from Vermont to its new home from February 25 to March 2. (vail.com)

Japan: Shiga Kogen(Shiga Kogen)

Long before skiing became a major draw to Japan’s Japanese Alps, hot springs were the region’s primary attraction. These natural thermal baths not only lured humans to unwind and escape for a getaway but also drew the attention of Japan’s famous snow monkeys—locally known as "snow monkeys." Today, visitors come to this area for entirely different reasons. Stretching east of Nagano, the region boasts some of Asia’s finest ski resorts, particularly Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, where several interconnected villages offer over 50 lifts and hundreds of slopes. Here, you can carve through diverse terrains for days on end without repeating the same trail—even better, the high altitude of around 6,500 feet ensures one of Asia’s longest ski seasons, running from late November through late April. Shiga Kogen’s vast expanse also means fewer skiers crowding the slopes, so you’ll rarely have to wait in line for your lift. Many of the resort’s lodges are conveniently located near rejuvenating hot springs. And if you’re looking to swap your skis for something a bit more relaxed after a half-day on the mountain, why not skip the traditional snow tubing—and instead head straight to Jigokudani Monkey Park to witness these fascinating primates peacefully meditating in their natural thermal baths?

United States: Stevens Pass, Washington State(Stevens Pass, Washington)

The Cascade Mountains are among the snowiest regions in the United States. Here, the snowflakes are wet and heavy, often lingering well into spring. Stevens Pass is no exception—averaging 457 inches of annual snowfall, with an impressive 110 inches falling just in March and April alone, making it a perfect spot for spring skiing. This ski resort, boasting a 75-year history, spans 1,125 acres and features 10 lifts and 37 trails, renowned for their steep slopes and thrilling tree skiing opportunities. The "Seventh Heaven" lift takes skiers up to Cowboy Mountain, soaring at 5,845 feet—a destination known for its exceptionally steep terrain, where each lift chair is flanked by towering lift towers above and below. Nearby, Cowboy Ridge offers similar dramatic features, with short, narrow gullies crisscrossing the landscape. Meanwhile, Big Chief Mountain, cloaked in towering evergreens, provides ideal conditions for serene tree skiing—and it’s a local favorite. Another popular activity? Venturing beyond the resort to camp overnight in RVs parked right at the trailhead parking lot, which comes equipped with full power outlets for convenient all-night stays. (stevenspass.com)

United States: Eagle Cap Wilderness, Oregon(Eagle Cap Wilderness, Oregon)

The Wallowa Mountains in northeastern Oregon resemble the Rockies more than the Cascade Range. Towering peaks rise unevenly, dotted with massive glacial valleys. Each year, these mountains receive an impressive 400 inches of dry, powdery snow—perfect for building towering drifts that seem almost otherworldly. Yet, despite their Swiss-like beauty and towering heights nearing 10,000 feet, these dramatic peaks remain largely unknown even to local Oregon ski enthusiasts, especially compared to the region’s more famous winter destinations. Among the most breathtaking spots is the 547-square-mile Eagle Cap Wilderness, where backcountry skiers from far-flung areas finally have found a truly untamed playground. Many of its trails remain unnamed, offering untouched terrain that feels like stepping into a pristine alpine paradise. Of course, there are no lifts here—but Wallowa Alpine Huts has brought a touch of modern comfort to this remote, frigid haven, setting up cozy dome tents and rustic cabins nestled in the lower slopes near jaw-dropping runs like "Pope’s Nose" and "Chocolate Chip," both featuring staggering 1,000-foot vertical drops. While occasional snowstorms still sweep through in May, spring is arguably the best time to hit the slopes. The relentless winter storms begin to ease off, leaving behind three precious gifts: crisp, warm days, extended daylight hours, and soft, velvety powder perfect for carving down North-facing trails.

United States: Valdez Helicopter Ski Guide Company, Alaska(Valdez Heli-Ski Guides, Alaska)

For many snowboarding and ski experts, heli-skiing is the holy grail—and Alaska is the ultimate destination for this exhilarating adventure. With its rugged, untamed landscapes and consistently stable snow conditions—far safer than in other avalanche-prone areas—Alaska offers the perfect playground for thrill-seekers. As days grow longer and temperatures begin to rise in April, it’s the ideal time to visit this winter wonderland. Thompson Pass, nestled in the Chugach Mountains about 30 miles from Valdez, serves as an excellent gateway into the region’s pristine backcountry. Recently reopened, Tsaina Lodge boasts 24 luxurious guest rooms, right next to the heli-ski company’s helipad—a hub for some of the most coveted terrain in the area. The resort spans a massive 2,500 square miles, with glacier-carved valleys that resemble nothing short of highway on-ramps to paradise. Back when the lodge was just a humble collection of rustic cabins two decades ago, it drew in adventurous pros eager to carve fresh lines across uncharted terrain. Today, it has evolved into a high-end retreat tailored to those who crave more than just skiing—they want their days capped off with gourmet three-course dinners and plush Tempur-Pedic beds. Yet one thing remains constant: the region’s abundant snowfall (peaking at an astonishing 1,000 inches annually in the highest elevations)—and the timeless human desire to leave their mark on untouched powder.

France: Blanche Valley(ValléeBlanche)

Gazing up at Mont Blanc from Alice Square in Chamonix, France, the mountain’s towering 15,781-foot peak seems to stretch endlessly—soaring miles into the sky and standing over 12,000 feet above the quaint town below. Indeed, this dramatic peak rises more than 12,000 feet higher than the entire village itself. While Western Europe’s highest summit remains accessible for skiing year-round—even for those who enjoy a leisurely hike—the early spring months typically offer the best snow conditions for even the most laid-back skiers. One of the most breathtaking yet lesser-known spots for adventurous powder seekers is Vallée Blanche, a glacier-filled canyon nestled northeast of Mont Blanc. The journey begins with a ride on the Aiguille du Midi cable car, which ascends to an impressive altitude of 12,605 feet. From its jagged, needle-like summit, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape before setting off down the slopes. On snow-rich years, the classic Vallée Blanche run—fed by two massive glaciers that glow softly in shades of blue—can extend up to 12 miles long, with a staggering vertical drop of 7,000 feet. But don’t let the awe-inspiring sight of the Alps’ most majestic peaks—a jagged, interlocking skyline crowned by iconic landmarks like the Aiguille Verte, Les Drus, and, of course, Mont Blanc—throw you off balance. Instead, take a moment to soak it all in. And remember: while Vallée Blanche may feel like a hidden gem, it’s no ordinary ski resort. Tragically, accidents involving skiers falling into crevasses still occur every year, so it’s absolutely essential to hire a certified guide for this high-alpine adventure.

Canada: Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort(Whistler Blackcomb)

From mid-June to July, the side of Whistler’s Blackcomb Mountain looks more like Southern California than a high-altitude ski resort. At Horstman Glacier, perched 7,500 feet above sea level, snowboarders and skiers—some even sporting shorts and bikini tops—are carving up the moderately challenging slopes with dazzling flair. Meanwhile, others slather on thick layers of sunscreen, savoring a leisurely lunch in the alpine-inspired courtyard of the Horstman Hut. Each evening, the ski area meticulously maintains the snow by grooming and lightly salting it, ensuring a firm, stable base that subtly reveals glimpses of the glacier’s ethereal, icy blue beneath—a mesmerizing contrast against the crisp white powder. The slopes officially open at 11 a.m., but reaching the glacier itself requires a 45-minute cable-car ride, complete with multiple transfers along the way. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, hiking is also an option—and it’s often chosen by die-hard ski enthusiasts who thrive on adventure and are always on the hunt for fresh, off-the-beaten-path destinations. Spanning 93 acres, the glacier features two iconic T-shaped structures, with runs offering a vertical drop of 700 feet, plus a compact yet exhilarating terrain park. By 3 p.m., skiers must catch the lift back down to the base of Blackcomb Mountain, where they can seamlessly transition into summer activities below.

Switzerland: Zermatt(Zermatt)

Summer skiing is a real crowd-pleaser—dressed in T-shirts and shorts, carving across icy slopes for hours is bound to turn heads. Yet despite the spectacle, it remains an exhilarating experience, especially in a exotic destination like Zermatt. Nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Switzerland’s premier ski resort boasts what it claims is Europe’s highest-altitude and largest-scale summer skiing operation. With trails spanning roughly 15 miles and eight cable car lines open year-round, visitors can glide effortlessly up to elevations as high as 12,500 feet. While snow occasionally graces the Theodul Glacier, it’s wise to slather on sunscreen and gear up for some fun on the gently undulating, man-made intermediate-to-beginner slopes that drop a thrilling 3,200 feet. Below, the lush valley unfolds in all its verdant glory, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine landscape. And don’t forget to unwind afterward with a refreshing beer or two on one of the resort’s charming sun-soaked terraces—perfect for soaking in the panoramic vistas of the towering Alps.

United States: Linville, Oregon(Timberline, Oregon)

Skiing on a volcano on the longest day of the year? At Palmersnowfield, nestled in the treeline area 60 miles east of Portland, on the southern side of Mount Hood, this dream can actually become a reality. Spread across roughly 100 acres of permafrost, the snow here remains intact through multiple winters, preserving several layers of fresh powder until the following summer. Perfect for intermediate to advanced skiers, the resort is open nearly every day from June 1 until Labor Day—and even offers weekend access in September and October. Early summer is the ideal time to visit, when you can carve your way down the stunning 2,500-foot vertical drop all the way to the base camp and the iconic Timberline Lodge, a breathtaking National Historic Landmark surrounded by towering evergreens. As the season progresses and the snow begins to melt, thrill-seekers hop back onto the lifts to head back down to the valley below. About a quarter of Palmersnowfield’s terrain is open to the public, including a dedicated terrain park equipped with features like steps and handrails for added fun. With lift hours running from 7:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., you’ll have plenty of time afterward to explore the scenic Mount Hood National Forest, hike around the mountain, or even spot some serene alpine lakes. Alternatively, you could grab a tube and hit the rapids of the Deschutes River for an exhilarating whitewater adventure—or simply unwind in one of the cozy vacation cabins while keeping an eye out for St. Bernard, the lodge’s two friendly Bernese Mountain Dogs!

Australia: Perryshire(Perisher)Ski resort and Sledbao(Thredbo)Ski resort

If you believe that bigger is better and are eager to hit the slopes in July, head to Perisher Ski Resort in the Snowy Mountains region of southeastern New South Wales, Australia. This ski area comprises four interconnected resorts within the Snowy Mountains, making it arguably the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, with 47 lift-accessed runs designed to cater to skiers of all levels. Perisher boasts a relatively high starting point (5,400 feet), and the resort has invested heavily in state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment to ensure abundant snow coverage—far surpassing that of other Australian ski destinations. However, given the mountains’ modest vertical drop of just 6,700 feet, most of the runs tend to be on the shorter side. For those seeking longer, more challenging slopes—or who prefer a more independent skiing experience— nearby Thredbo is an excellent alternative. While Thredbo’s runs start at a lower elevation, the base conditions can become quite tricky as the lower layers of snow begin to melt. Both resorts operate from June through October, though peak snowfall typically occurs during the cooler months of July and August.

New Zealand: Three Peaks Ski Resort(Treble Cone)

Many ski resorts in the Southern Hemisphere prefer to attract North American visitors with the lure of summer skiing rather than relying on diverse terrain and challenging slopes. However, New Zealand’s largest resort on the South Island, Treble Cone, takes a different approach. Spread across four valleys above the tree line, this 1,359-acre ski area offers not only exceptionally wide, impeccably groomed runs perfect for intermediate skiers but also long, steep slopes that are a favorite among experts—and even thrilling trails right near cliff edges (though just 10% of the runs are specifically tailored for beginners). Another standout feature here is the exceptional quality of the snow, thanks to the resort’s location at the eastern foothills of the Southern Alps, an area renowned for its powerful winds and dry, powder-like snow. The prime skiing season typically kicks in from late July onward, when school holidays across the country are winding down. For accommodations and dining, travelers can head to the picturesque lakeside town of Wanaka, about 16 miles east of the resort, or venture further south to Queenstown, nestled 62 miles away.

United States: Mount Bachelor, Oregon(Mount Bachelor, Oregon)

People who love skiing in the Rocky Mountains often jokingly tease the heavy, ocean-driven snowfalls along the Pacific Northwest coast, dubbing it "layered cement." But this dense, compact quality actually helps multi-layered snowpacks hold up remarkably well—right through to summer. During the warmer months, you’ll enjoy hot daytime temperatures paired with crisp, cool evenings. Here, snow that once resembled a solid 16-foot-thick slab of concrete can transform into something truly magical: soft, silky "grain snow," widely regarded as one of the finest types of powder in the world. Over the past two summers, workers at Oregon’s largest ski area, Mount Bachelor, even managed to open two of the resort’s ten lifts during the Independence Day weekend holiday, inviting skiers and riders to carve their way down the winding, yet perfectly safe, 9,065-foot-high volcanic slopes—and experience the sheer delight of grain snow firsthand. If enough snow accumulates by next July to support summer skiing, bring along your $30 ticket, slather on some sunscreen, and gear up in a trusty T-shirt as you glide down the stunning, 1,700-plus-foot vertical drop of the iconic "Beverly Hills" run. Designed for intermediate skiers, Beverly Hills offers a smooth, beginner-friendly experience. For more advanced riders, the CowsFace trail—located just east of the summit—is the perfect choice. This expansive, wide-open slope delivers breathtaking views of Oregon’s high-altitude desert landscapes below. Sorry, but fireworks aren’t allowed here. If you’re craving a fireworks display, head east from Mount Bachelor—about a 30-minute drive—to Bend instead (mtbachelor.com).

Argentina: Las Llanuras(Las Leñas)

Las Lenas Ski Resort is truly remote. The easiest way to reach it is by taking a weekly charter flight from Buenos Aires to a small airport, followed by a one-hour drive to the slopes. But for skiers who make the journey, it’s absolutely worth it—this place boasts some of the most diverse and challenging expert-level terrain in the world, featuring massive cirque valleys and razor-sharp, rock-framed gullies. While the ski map lists just 29 groomed runs, the possibilities here are endless: you can carve your way across thousands of pristine acres of untouched powder, with every corner of this Andean peak at your fingertips. All the runs are easily accessible via the Marte lift system, which ultimately leads back to the base camp nestled at the mountain’s foot—though for safety reasons, it’s highly recommended to hire a guide. At lower elevations and on gentler slopes, there’s an abundance of wide, beginner-to-intermediate-friendly trails perfect for exploring. Last year, a new chairlift was added to further enhance access to these areas. Plus, several hotels and apartment complexes designed with easy board-in/board-out access make life at base camp incredibly convenient. But let’s be clear: you didn’t come all this way just to soak in hot springs.

South Africa: Tiffindell Resort(Tiffindell Ski Resort)

Tiffindell Resort is the only place in South Africa where you can experience snowboarding and snowboarding on a snowboard. Located in the remote town of Rhodes, on the southern slopes of the Drakensberg Mountains, the resort opened its doors in 1993. However, it temporarily closed in 2000 when the owners and resort operators became embroiled in legal battles, leaving maintenance and management neglected. In July, Lew Campbell, who runs an artificial ski resort in Johannesburg, stepped in by purchasing the resort at auction for $730,000. He then invested an additional $560,000 to renovate the property, acquire snow-making equipment, and stock up on top-notch ski gear. By January 2013, the 192-bed resort will reopen—and this time, it’s set to operate year-round. While snowfall typically occurs from June to August, let’s be honest: Tiffindell simply can’t compete with the scale and prestige of larger ski destinations. With just 57 acres of skiable terrain, the resort covers less than 1% of Whistler Blackcomb’s expansive slopes. Despite its smaller size and lack of professional-grade facilities, Tiffindell makes up for it with South Africa’s renowned warmth and hospitality. As visitors stroll along the gravel paths, they’ll often spot cows and sheep peacefully grazing on the lush green hillsides. The resort’s staff are multilingual, fluent in English, Afrikaans, and the indigenous Xhosa language. And when winter brings crisp, clear days perfect for skiing, don’t worry—if a White Cliffs Bourbon Milkshake starts to feel a bit too tame after a long day on the slopes, Tiffindell has just the remedy: their famous South African spicy boerwors sausage, guaranteed to get your taste buds fired up!

Chile: Portillo Ski Resort(Portillo)

Located in the Andes mountain range, 100 miles northeast of Santiago, Portillo Ski Resort is a beloved destination that draws a loyal base of returning guests—many of whom hail from North America. This traditionally styled ski resort boasts 35 meticulously groomed slopes, ranging from gentle, beginner-friendly runs to thrillingly steep and challenging terrains. All trails lie above the treeline, offering breathtaking views of towering peaks and the shimmering waters of Laguna del Inca in the distance. For expert skiers seeking an adrenaline rush, untouched, ungroomed slopes await via the resort’s outdoor lift—a true adventure in itself. As is customary in South America, evenings at Portillo come alive with vibrant social gatherings. Hotel Portillo hosts dinner service at 8 p.m., followed by nightly live performances at its lively bar, while the discothèque ignites late into the night with shimmying West Coast jazz dances. Of course, mornings here unfold at a leisurely pace, but thanks to the resort’s limited capacity of just 450 guests, there’s no need to scramble for first tracks. After a day on the slopes, guests can unwind with a wealth of activities: from games and movie nights to insightful lectures, wine tastings, and invigorating fitness classes. There are even dedicated kids’ programs designed to help young visitors make new friends. In the hotel’s spacious lobby, you might just bump into one of the stars who frequently grace magazine covers—or perhaps even appear in World Cup skiing events! And in 2013, select rooms received a stylish upgrade, featuring sumptuous new furnishings and plush bedding—a notable touch for a property renowned for its timeless, classic elegance.

New Zealand: Turua and Wakaapapa Ski Areas(Turoa and Whakapapa Ski Areas)

Skiing on Mount Ruapehu, you’ll truly grasp the meaning of "fire meets ice." As New Zealand’s largest active volcano, Ruapehu also served as the real-life backdrop for Mount Doom in Peter Jackson’s epic *The Lord of the Rings* trilogy. The mountain boasts two distinct ski areas: Turangi, on its southwest slope, claims to offer the steepest runs—and the greatest vertical drop—across Australia and Asia, along with New Zealand’s highest-altitude lift system. Meanwhile, Whakapapa, nestled on the northwest side, touts itself as home to New Zealand’s largest skiable terrain, with no fewer than 65 groomed runs. At the summit, a stunning ice-blue crater lake adds to the dramatic scenery—but volcanologists warn that massive volcanic mudflows could still occur. Ruapehu erupts roughly every 20 to 25 years, and experts recently cautioned that another eruption might be imminent this November. Both ski areas provide detailed maps highlighting potential mudflow paths, making them invaluable tools for skiers. On these maps, you’ll spot a chilling dotted line: skiing above it means you’re not just dodging small snowdrifts—you’re facing the threat of full-blown mudslides. And let’s not forget the challenge of insufficient snowfall here; unfortunately, both resorts remain treeless due to the aftermath of previous eruptions. Yet despite these obstacles, the slopes stretch endlessly and wildly, with some runs even following the very paths carved by past mudflows.

New Zealand:Temple Basin(Temple Basin)

New Zealand’s public ski destinations—often little more than a single chairlift paired with a cozy mountain lodge perched on the hillside—have long stood out as quirky outliers in the global skiing scene, dating back to their emergence in the 1930s. One such gem is Temple Basin, located in the South Island about a two-hour drive northwest of Christchurch. Since its opening in 1948, this spot has become a cornerstone of New Zealand’s ski culture. Temple Basin welcomes skiers every July and keeps its slopes open until late October. Spanning an impressive 800 acres, the resort features a mile-long lift system with a vertical drop of 1,400 feet. Nestled within Arthur’s Pass National Park, the basin remains remarkably treeless and ruggedly untamed—almost straight out of J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary landscapes. The terrain here caters perfectly to beginners and intermediate skiers, while seasoned experts often head straight for the vast, untouched expanses stretching thousands of acres just beyond the resort’s boundaries. Mount Temple itself has even served as the dramatic backdrop for dozens of ski films—and has graced the covers of countless magazines. For those eager to explore, a short hike from the top of the downhill lift trail will lead you directly to the summit of Mount Temple. Meanwhile, the Cassidy Lift whiskies skiers up into the heart of the expansive basin, where a variety of beginner- and intermediate-friendly runs await. What sets these ski areas apart is their unique appeal as affordable, club-member-exclusive destinations. A three-day all-inclusive ski package, complete with lift access, accommodation, and meals, starts at just $340—a fantastic value for anyone looking to hit the slopes without breaking the bank. And when it comes to lodging, expect traditional alpine chalets offering bunk beds alongside hearty breakfasts and dinners.

United States: Killington Ski Resort, Vermont(Killington,Vermont)

Killington Ski Resort can blanket 80 acres of terrain with a 12-inch-deep layer of pristine white snow in under an hour—using 240 snowmaking guns to transform 720,000 gallons of water into powder-perfect flakes. No wonder it’s consistently ranked as one of the first ski resorts in the eastern U.S. to reopen each year for the past two decades (this year, it kicked off its season on October 15, welcoming guests who hold season passes). The resort boasts seven majestic peaks, with East Mountain (3,050 feet) offering the steepest vertical drop and Killington Peak (4,241 feet) reigning as the highest point. Though annual snowfall here averages just 250 inches, the resort has invested millions—specifically purchasing 1,500 snow guns—to ensure that all 600 acres of its sprawling 752-acre property remain fully covered in snow. For those eager to reach the summit, the K-1 gondola is the fastest lift available, while Cascade offers the quickest descent—but be warned: the cable beneath the seats can dig painfully into your thighs. Meanwhile, Outer Limits remains the Rockies’ most iconic run, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and challenging terrain. As the sun dips behind the Green Mountains, the real hub of après-ski action shifts to Wobbly Barn—a lively spot that originally took shape in 1963 when ten abandoned outbuildings were repurposed into a vibrant post-slope hangout. Today, it continues to deliver some of New England’s most unforgettable winter festivities.

China: Huaibei Ski Resort and Wanlong Ski Resort

Want to ski on the Great Wall of China? It’s not exactly practical, but you can certainly enjoy breathtaking views of the Wall while skiing—though this unique experience leans more toward curiosity than traditional skiing. Located about an hour north of Beijing by car, Huaibei Ski Resort sits atop a ridge in the Yanshan Mountains, right next to a section of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall. The snow-covered, stark-white peaks stand out dramatically against the surrounding brownish hills—and they also remind you of one essential truth about skiing near Beijing: winters here are bone-chillingly cold. All the ski resorts within easy driving distance from Beijing rely heavily on artificial snowmaking, which unfortunately leads to the formation of dangerous icy patches over time. Still, Huaibei offers crisp mountain air and a long, uncrowded slope—perfect for beginners who prefer quieter runs. If you’re looking to take your skills to the next level, head to Wanlong Ski Resort, about three to four hours from Beijing. Wanlong boasts more modern facilities and higher prices, with over 20 slopes that attract a more upscale crowd compared to Huaibei. And though you won’t spot the Great Wall here, it’s actually just a short drive away.

United States: Alta Ski Area, Utah(Alta, Utah)

In 1950, Dick Durrance, a ski school instructor at Alta, invented the powder-friendly skiing maneuver known as the "Dipsy Doodle." Six decades later, Alta remains North America's undisputed powder snow capital. Nestled at an elevation of 10,550 feet, the resort boasts a vertical drop of 2,020 feet and receives an impressive annual snowfall of 560 inches—enough to ensure ideal powder conditions roughly one day every 10 days (with fresh snowfall exceeding 9 inches). The Little Cottonwood Canyon, where the ski area is located, features uniquely diverse terrain, allowing snow from multiple directions to blanket the slopes. Additionally, Salt Lake City’s iconic lake-effect snowstorms significantly boost the region’s overall snow totals. On days when the snow turns grainy, local skiers eagerly head straight to classic runs like High Rustler and Eagle’s Nest, patiently waiting for park rangers to open up Ballroom, which then gives them access to the steep slopes of Baldy Shoulder. Beyond the Supreme lift, visitors can enjoy backcountry skiing amid the forested trails. And here’s the twist: unlike in the past, today you can purchase a single lift pass that lets you start your adventure not just at Alta, but even from the summit of Sugarloaf—and seamlessly transition into Snowbird territory.

United States: West Vail Mountain Ski Resort in Colorado(Silverton Mountain, Colorado) 

Silverton Mountain is North America's highest-altitude ski resort (13,487 feet) and likely one of the earliest to receive snowfall. With an average annual snowfall of 400 inches, the slopes remain packed with powder well into April of the following year. Founded in southern Colorado by Jen and Aaron Brill, inspired by the grassroots spirit of New Zealand’s public ski areas, Silverton is just a stone's throw from Telluride, nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Here, skiers take a 1973-built double chairlift—purchased by the Brills from Mammoth—to reach the summit, offering breathtaking views along the way of towering 3,000-foot peaks, serene cirques, dense forests, and pristine powder fields. For visitors, this means an average of 80 skiers per day on the mountain—but be prepared: after fresh storms, the coveted powdery snow vanishes completely within weeks. And don’t expect any lift-accessed runs here; even the resort’s easiest slope rivals—or perhaps surpasses—the steepness of most black-diamond trails found at traditional ski resorts. So gear up for a challenge that’s anything but easy!

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