Maybe you didn’t get as many ski or snowboard days as you wanted this year. Or maybe you’ve just got your eyes on one last blast in the snow. Whatever your reasons, late season or spring skiing can be a great opportunity.
If you’re aiming to hit the slopes a little later in the season, you’ll want resorts with high altitudes, north-facing slopes, and resilient snowfall.
So, lets dig into which are the best late season ski resorts for you to hit up as the leaves are turning greener and the days are getting longer.
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When does ski season end in Europe?
The typical end date for the ski season in Europe is in mid to late April. Yet, it’s not set in stone that you must stick to these dates, especially with changing weather conditions. Some ski resorts remain open into May, as we’ll see in a moment.
North facing slopes help maintain snow quality, extending the options for late season skiing. This means ski resorts like Hintertux in Austria and Tignes or Val Thorens in France. Some of these offer extended skiing well into May, with the latter closing as late as May 5th, 2024.
So if you’re an advanced skier or snowboarder looking for a late snow holiday, high altitude skiing at these late season ski resorts could be your cup of gluhwein!
What to expect with late season skiing
There are a number of benefits for heading off for some late season snow. For starters, the prices are usually very appealing, with often incredible prices for some of the best ski resorts on the map.
This can obviously be a great time for people to experience less crowded pistes, and perhaps even luxurious accommodation in resorts they might not otherwise choose.
Late-season skiing often brings reduced ski pass prices, making it a budget-friendly option. So if you’ve always wanted to ride in Zermatt or Lech but been out off by the prices, this can be a great opportunity.
However, there are some challenges to consider.
As the season winds down, weather conditions can become tricky. Ski resorts in lower latitudes may experience higher temperatures, leading to faster snow melt and variable snow conditions.
Also, certain pistes and facilities may be closed due to warm weather, lack of snow, or the transition to summer activities.
This is why March skiing can be a great option to avoid these closures, as opposed to April. Yes, April tends to be the best prices, but often in the high altitude resorts there can be a late flurry of snow into March, so you might even (mayyybe) get a powder day.
So if you’re planning a late ski holiday, make sure to keep these factors in mind.
Top European destinations for late season skiing
If you’re hunting the late season snow, perhaps obviously, the best ski resorts will be those at higher altitudes. Generally speaking you will want most of the resort itself above 2000 metres, with the high altitude skiing taking you to 3000 metres or more.
All of these offer relatively late season snow and you might even get to enjoy a spot of apres ski too – with some great snow music festivals at this late stage in the season.
Val Thorens, France
Europe’s highest ski resort and a haven for late-season skiing, Val Thorens is part of the biggest linked ski area in the world, Les Trois Vallees. With the ski season extending until May 5th, Val Thorens ensures reliable snow conditions due to its high altitude, making it an ideal destination for Easter ski holidays.
Not all of the 3 Vallees will be open at this stage of the season, particularly the lower slopes. But there will still be plenty to see and ski.
The ski area offers a huge variety of ski runs, catering to all proficiency levels, from novices to experts. Yes, even if half of it is closed.
And when you’re done carving the slopes, you can indulge in the resort’s wide range of facilities and amenities for a well-rounded ski holiday experience.
Read: How to find cheap deals in Les Trois Vallees
Zermatt, Switzerland
Home to Europe’s highest ski lifts, and in the shadow of the gorgeous Matterhorn, Zermatt offers exceptional and luxurious skiing experiences. The resort truly shines when it comes to late season skiing, with its high-altitude slopes and access to the highest ski area in Europe. Much of the terrain is north facing, and the pretty village is a draw in it’s own right.
Zermatt is also linked to Breuil-Cervinia (another option below). This link remains open until early May usually, with the 2024 closing date currently 5th May.
Although Zermatt is renowned for its year-round skiing, ensuring no break in your ski adventures, the bulk of the ski lifts close in late April. So if you want to jump on one of the longest ski runs in the world, make sure to do it before the end of the season.
But, if you come here to ski in spring or summer, you’ll be able to enjoy those stunning views of the Matterhorn on your skis or snowboard from the glacier.
Breuil-Cervinia, Italy
Breuil-Cervinia, Italy, takes late-season skiing to new heights with its slopes reaching an impressive altitude of 2050 meters. Thanks to this, the resort maintains excellent snow conditions throughout the season, ensuring a smooth and exhilarating ski experience. And, like Zermatt, you can ski here until late April – or enjoy the access to the glacier during the summer months.
Of course, the added bonus is the resort’s access to Zermatt’s slopes, letting you explore a vast ski area of 360 kilometers with just one ski pass.
Breuil-Cervinia is also the more affordable option of the two, so you’ll be able to enjoy a springtime Aperol Spritz with a view of Cervino (the Italian name for the Matterhorn) for less than neighbouring Switzerland.
Ischgl, Austria
Ischgl, Austria, is a late-season skiing paradise with high-altitude slopes and an average altitude of almost 3,000 meters. This ensures a longer skiing period and excellent late-season conditions.
But the resort’s allure doesn’t end on the slopes. The vibrant après-ski scene is a crucial part of the skiing adventure in Ischgl, providing an ideal platform for skiers to socialize and share experiences from the slopes.
Solden, Austria
Another great option in Austria for late season snow, Solden is features not one but two superb glaciers. The ski season often doesn’t end until early May, making spring skiing very much a possibility here.
This is also one of the ski resorts that offers summer skiing too, which opportunities to ski the glaciers in the summer months.
Tignes, France
A top pick for late-season skiing is Tignes, thanks to its high-altitude slopes and access to the Espace Killy ski area. The resort’s altitude ensures exceptional skiing conditions with snow presence until late in the season. And if you’re looking for variety, Tignes offers a diverse array of ski runs, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging terrains for the pros.
The resort also provides plenty of accommodation options, ensuring a comfortable stay after a day full of adventure.
Obergurgl, Austria
Obergurgl, Austria, is a family-friendly resort perfect for late-season skiing. Its high-altitude slopes are expansive, sunlit, and sit above the tree line, ensuring snow reliability. And it’s not just the snow that’s impressive. The resort offers a variety of activities including snowshoeing and fat tire biking, in addition to traditional skiing.
And when it’s time to unwind, you can indulge in the resort’s traditional après-ski experiences, such as live music and dancing at the Nederhutte.
Saas-Fee, Switzerland
Saas-Fee, Switzerland, is a dream destination for late-season skiers. Known for its snow-sure slopes, spectacular scenery, and the highest glacier descents in the world, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking reliable late-season skiing. The resort also offers a variety of snow experiences, from cave trekking in the Spannagel Cave to glacial hikes and a visit to Nature’s Ice Palace.
And when it comes to accommodation, you’re spoilt for choice with upscale lodging options like Walliserhof Grand Hotel & Spa and Park Hotel.
Verbier, Switzerland
A mecca for late-season skiers, Verbier offers some of the best options for April and March skiing with north facing slopes. In addition, the resort’s ski lifts reach an impressive altitude, allowing for exceptional late-season skiing experiences. Verbier is also renowned for its range of terrain, making it a perfect destination for skiers of all skill levels.
In 2024, the season close in Verbier is April 21st, so you can grab some great late season skiing in this world class resort.
And let’s not forget the resort’s luxurious atmosphere and a lively après-ski scene that perfectly rounds off a day on the slopes. If you’re looking for a premium experience, this is one of the best ski resorts, and a late season snow sesh can be much more affordable here.
Chamonix, France
Nestled at the base of Mont Blanc, Chamonix offers excellent options for a late-season skiing experience. The resort is known for its breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif as well as varied options for skiers and snowboarders at Le Grand Montet as well as the exceptional Aguille du Midi. Chamonix boasts a long non-glacial ski season, extending from November to May, ensuring you never run out of skiing opportunities.
And when it’s time to unwind, you can enjoy Chamonix’s vibrant nightlife scene, with great dining, bars, pubs and more.
If you’re looking for a reliable high altitude resort with access to many north facing slopes (mostly at Argentiere) then Chamonix is a solid option.
Les Deux Alpes, France
A hot spot for late-season skiing, thanks to its significant skiable glacier, which is one of the largest in Europe. With the glacier and over 3000 metres of altitude, Les Deux Alpes can offer skiing almost all year round. And it’s not just the skiing that’s impressive.
Les Deux Alpes also offers a well-connected network of slopes, allowing for easy movement between different areas of the resort, and day trips to nearby resorts such as Alpe d’Huez for a diverse skiing experience.
You’ll also find lively apres ski and a buzzing resort too.
Read our Les Deux Alpes Review.
Hintertux, Austria
Hintertux, Austria, is a unique late-season skiing destination at the far end of the Zillertal valley. This glacier based ski resort even offers skiing throughout the year. The resort’s regular winter lift hours ensure ample time for skiers to enjoy the slopes and attractions.
Due to the proximity to Mayrhofen, you can book and stay in the popular resort and take the ski bus down to the Hintertux area, as your Zillertal ski pass gives access to the entire area. This means you can get the best of both worlds with the apres ski scene in Mayrhofen, combined with the late season skiing at Hintertux.
Are, Sweden
Are ski resort in Sweden is a treat for late-season skiers. With breathtaking scenery and low sweeping mountains covered with pine forests, it’s the perfect setting for a spring skiing holiday. The resort caters to all skill levels, offering slopes and facilities for skiers of all abilities.
And for those who prefer off-the-beaten-track experiences, Are offers plenty of tracks and trails for cross-country skiing.
Late season ski gems outside Europe
Europe isn’t the only continent with great late-season skiing. In fact, if you’re looking for reliable late season snow, the best ski resorts are usually either over the pond or a little further away in Japan.
And yes, they might be more expensive, but if you’re looking to go skiing or snowboarding in April or May, you might need to go long haul.
Mammoth Mountain, USA
Mammoth Mountain, California, is a haven for late-season skiers. With its high altitude, excellent spring skiing conditions, and frequent late-season snowfalls, it’s a top pick for many. The resort offers a diverse range of ski runs, catering to all proficiency levels, from novices to experts.
And when you’re done carving the slopes, you can indulge in the resort’s wide range of facilities and amenities for a well-rounded ski holiday experience.
Timberline, USA
Timberline Ski Resort in Oregon is the only ski area in the country providing skiing for ten months of the year, making it an exceptional destination for late-season skiing. During the late ski season, the resort sees an average snowfall of 2.8 inches in April, ensuring optimal skiing conditions.
The resort, known as one of the best ski resorts, offers a wide range of runs, catering to all skill levels, making it a perfect destination for a family ski holiday.
Killington, USA
Killington in Vermont, is another gem for late-season skiers. Its features include:
- Relatively high elevation
- Multiple mountain peaks
- Impressive snowmaking capabilities
- Diverse terrain that caters to all skill levels
With these features, Killington is a top pick for late-season skiing and a resort that truly has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a ski resort that offers more than just skiing, Killington is the place to be.
Breckenridge, USA
Breckenridge, Colorado, is a favorite among late-season skiers. Its high-altitude slopes and a charming town make it a perfect pick for a spring skiing holiday. The resort offers a range of terrain, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging terrains for the pros.
And once the sun sets, the vibrant nightlife scene comes to life, offering lively dancing, electrifying live music, and engaging games.
Whistler, Canada
Whistler in British Columbia is another top spot for late-season skiing. The resort boasts extensive slopes, excellent off-piste opportunities, and a lively atmosphere.
With its high altitude and impressive snowfall, Whistler offers reliable snow conditions for late-season skiing.
Lake Louise, Canada
Lake Louise in Alberta, is known for its stunning scenery, reliable snow, and varied terrain. The resort offers a range of terrain, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging terrains for the pros.
And once the sun sets, the vibrant nightlife scene comes to life, offering lively dancing, electrifying live music, and engaging games.
Niseko, Japan
Last but not least, Niseko, Japan, is a dream destination for late-season skiers. Known for its powdery snow, tree-lined runs, and a season that lasts into May, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a unique skiing experience. The resort also offers a variety of snow experiences, from cave trekking in the Spannagel Cave to glacial hikes and a visit to Nature’s Ice Palace. And when it comes to accommodation, you’re spoilt for choice with upscale lodging options like Walliserhof Grand Hotel & Spa and Park Hotel.
Tips for late season skiing success.
Planning to dive into late-season skiing? Incorporate these tips for a successful trip. First off, aim for high-altitude resorts. These resorts, like Solden or Val d’Isere, often offer superior snow quality and extended ski days, thanks to their higher altitudes.
Next, don’t forget to check the snow conditions. Websites like Snow-Forecast and Weather to Ski offer comprehensive snow reports, real-time updates, and forecasts. These resources can help you identify the best resorts with ideal snow quality and depth.
Lastly, be flexible with your travel plans. Done right, late-season skiing can lead to:
- substantial cost savings
- reduced crowd sizes
- good weather conditions
- extended hours for skiing activities
So, if your travel dates are flexible, you might just land the perfect late-season ski holiday during the easter holidays!
Is it worth late season skiing in Europe?
So, should you consider late-season skiing in Europe? Without a doubt!
Late-season skiing offers several benefits, including reduced crowds, lower prices, and longer daylight hours. However, choosing the right resort is key to ensure the best snow conditions.
High-altitude resorts like Zermatt, Saas-Fee, or Val Thorens are more likely to offer excellent snow conditions even as the season draws to a close.
Keep in mind, the weather significantly impacts the quality of late-season skiing.
Higher altitudes generally provide cooler temperatures, which are conducive to maintaining good snow cover. Meanwhile, resorts at lower altitudes may struggle with patchy snow due to warmer temperatures causing snow to melt.
So, if a late ski holiday is on your itinerary, high-altitude destinations should be your priority for the best conditions.
Picking your late season ski deal
If you’re looking for the best deals and the best resorts, you’ll find lots of great packages on sites such as:
Keep an eye on these for deals into March and April, as this is typically when the late season packages are being offered.
