Top 5 Locations for Summer Skiing
5. Mt. Hood, Oregon
The first and only destination on our list located in the United States, Mt. Hood in Oregon is known for offering summer skiing and snowboarding on the slopes. Here’s some information about summer skiing at Mt. Hood:
Location: Mt. Hood is situated on the Cascade Range of Oregon. Mt. Hood is about 60 miles east of Portland, making it relatively accessible for day ski/snowboarding trips or longer stays from the city.
Glacier Skiing: The ski season at Mt. Hood typically extends into the summer months due to the Palmer Glacier. This glacier retains enough snowpack to allow skiing and snowboarding well into July and sometimes even into August. When the lifts aren’t available, there are still opportunities for backcountry skiing.
Terrain: The summer skiing terrain is primarily on the Palmer Glacier, which is accessed by the Palmer Express lift. This area offers a variety of runs suitable for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
Activities: Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the scenic beauty of Mt. Hood National Forest during the summer months.
Weather: Weather conditions can vary, even in summer, so it's always a good idea to check current conditions and forecasts before planning a trip.
Overall, Mt. Hood offers a unique opportunity for summer skiing in the Pacific Northwest, combining outdoor recreation with the charm of a historic mountain lodge.
4. Saas Fee, Switzerland
Saas Fee in Switzerland is a fantastic destination for summer skiing, offering an exhilarating experience in the Swiss Alps for all outside life enthusiasts. Here’s what you can expect from summer skiing in Saas Fee:
Location and Accessibility: Saas Fee is located in the Valais region of Switzerland, nestled amidst majestic peaks, including the Dom, the highest mountain entirely within Switzerland. It's easily accessible by car or public transportation from major Swiss cities.
Glacier Skiing: The skiing in Saas Fee during the summer months takes place on the Allalin Glacier. This glacier maintains good snow cover throughout the summer, providing skiers and snowboarders with a range of slopes and terrain suitable for all levels of ability.
Terrain: The Allalin Glacier offers a variety of runs, from gentle slopes perfect for beginners to challenging terrain for more experienced skiers and snowboarders. There are also opportunities for freestyle skiing and snowboarding in designated snow parks.
Scenic Views: The views from Saas Fee are breathtaking, with towering peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows surrounding the village. The Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the Alps, is also visible from certain points in Saas Fee.
Climate and Weather: Summer weather in Saas Fee is generally pleasant, with cooler temperatures compared to lower altitudes.
Overall, Saas Fee offers a memorable summer skiing experience in a spectacular alpine setting, combining outdoor sports with Swiss hospitality and stunning natural beauty.
3. Tignes, France
Tignes in France is another excellent destination for summer skiing, known for its high-altitude glacier and extensive ski travel opportunities even during the warmer months. Here’s what you can expect from summer skiing in Tignes:
Location and Accessibility: Tignes is located in the Tarentaise Valley of the French Alps, near the border with Italy. It’s easily accessible from major cities like Lyon and Geneva by car or shuttle services.
Glacier Skiing: Tignes offers summer skiing on the Grande Motte Glacier. This glacier sits at an altitude of around 3,456 meters (11,338 feet), ensuring good snow conditions throughout the summer season.
Terrain: The Grande Motte Glacier provides a variety of slopes catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging off-piste terrain, there’s something for everyone. Tignes also features a snow park on the glacier for freestyle enthusiasts.
Activities: In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Tignes offers a wide array of summer activities. These include hiking, mountain biking, water sports on the lake, paragliding, and more. The resort is bustling with outdoor enthusiasts during the summer months.
Climate and Weather: Summer weather in Tignes is typically mild and pleasant, though temperatures can vary significantly due to the high altitude.
Overall, Tignes offers a vibrant summer skiing experience in a stunning alpine setting, making it a favorite destination for snow sports enthusiasts looking to extend their skiing season or simply enjoy the beauty of the French Alps during the warmer months.
2. Cerro Catedral, Patagonia, Argentina
Skiing at Cerro Catedral, also known as Cerro Catedral Alta Patagonia, is a fantastic experience. Located near San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina Patagonian Andes, it's one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in South America. Here's what you need to know:
Season: The ski season generally runs from June to October, with the peak months being July and August. By August, you can expect good snow coverage and generally favorable skiing conditions.
Size and Variety: Cerro Catedral boasts over 1,200 hectares of skiable terrain, with runs suitable for all skill levels. The resort offers a variety of slopes, from gentle beginner runs to challenging advanced trails.
Backcountry: There are opportunities for off-piste and backcountry skiing for those who are experienced and prepared.
Non-Ski Activities: If you need a break from skiing, there are options for snowshoeing, sledding, and scenic sightseeing.
Enjoy your time at Cerro Catedral! It's renowned for its stunning scenery, excellent snow conditions, and varied terrain, making it a top destination for skiers in Argentina.
1. Hintertux Glacier, Austria
Hintertux Glacier in Austria is renowned for its excellent summer skiing and snowboarding conditions, making it the number one summer ski choice on our list! Here’s what you can expect from summer skiing at Hintertux:
Location and Accessibility: Hintertux Glacier is located in the Zillertal Alps in the Tyrol region of Austria. It's easily accessible from nearby towns such as Mayrhofen and from Innsbruck, which is the closest major city with an international airport.
Glacier Skiing: Hintertux Glacier is open for skiing and snowboarding year-round, thanks to its high altitude and excellent snow preservation capabilities. It offers skiing from as early as April through to September, with peak conditions typically from June to August.
Terrain: The glacier provides a variety of terrain suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. There are wide-open slopes, gentle runs for beginners, and challenging terrain for freestyle and off-piste enthusiasts. The ski area is serviced by modern lifts and offers a continuous vertical drop of about 1,500 meters (4,920 feet).
Facilities: Hintertux has comprehensive facilities including multiple mountain restaurants, ski schools, equipment rental shops, and accommodations ranging from hotels to apartments. The infrastructure is designed to cater to the needs of summer visitors.
Scenic Views: The views from Hintertux are breathtaking, with expansive vistas of the surrounding glaciers and peaks of the Austrian Alps. On clear days, you can see across the Zillertal Valley.
Hintertux Glacier has it all when it comes to summer skiing. They offer a unique summer skiing experience in a spectacular alpine setting, making it a popular choice for ski enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers seeking snow sports during the summer months.
It’s time to plan your next ski/snowboard trip www.outsidelife.com and make sure to get outside this summer! We are just around the corner from the winter season, which means it’s time to get prepared for all the skiing/snowboarding you’ll be doing. Make sure to tag us on Instagram @outsidelifetravel during your next trip!
