For ski enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike, discovering the world’s longest ski runs that test endurance, skill, and perhaps even the strength of one’s resolve can be the highlight of any skiing expedition.
The thrill of setting off from the peak and descending through varied terrains, views that span the horizon, and the ever-changing conditions underfoot is something that makes our sport so thrilling and fun.
We’ve pulled together the definitive list of the world’s 10 longest continuous ski runs. Whether you’re seeking to push your limits, or simply revel in a prolonged descent, these destinations offer some of the most exhilarating and demanding experiences available on snow.
1. Chamonix, France – Vallée Blanche
- Start/End Points: Aiguille du Midi (3,842m) to Chamonix (1,035m)
- Length: 22km
- Vertical Drop: 2,807m
- Difficulty: Varies
In the shadow of Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak, Vallee Blanche is one of the world’s longest ski runs which also offers some of the best freeriding and off-piste terrain anywhere. Although it’s not a marked piste, the trail is a defined route – which is why it makes it onto our list of longest ski runs.
The descent, which boasts the biggest vertical drop of the runs featured, is unparalleled in its natural beauty, including seracs, crevasses, and breathtaking glacial landscapes. This isn’t a run for beginners or intermediates though and there is plenty to keep you on your toes – including rapid changes in weather.
There is actually a halfway point mountain shack for refreshments, and to rest those aching thighs. And if the snow cover is a bit thin lower down, you can take the train back down at the Mer du Glace, the glacier that marks the end of the run.
Note that due to its off-piste nature, it’s strongly recommended to have a guide on the Vallee Blanche.
2. Zermatt, Switzerland – Matterhorn Ski Paradise
- Start/End Points: Klein Matterhorn (3,883m) to Zermatt (1,620m)
- Length: 22km
- Vertical Drop: 2,263m
- Difficulty: Red
The legendary Matterhorn ski paradise offers a run that begins in the shadow of one of the most iconic mountains in the world and ends in the picturesque town of Zermatt. In fact this is the longest pisted ski run in the world, meaning it is often groomed and maintained, unlike the Vallee Blanche run. This red run is better suited to more experienced skiers and snowboarders, but adventurous intermediates will also enjoy testing their skills. The Klein Matterhorn is the highest skiable point in Europe, adding to the prestige and challenge of this remarkable location.
Zermatt is stunning, no matter how you look at it. This run winds through varying alpine terrains, including glaciers, and provides unforgettable views throughout its extensive length. There are also, of course, numerous ways you can descend from the mountain to the base, including routes down to Cervinia in Italy.
Like all high mountain trails though this one can be subject to extreme swings in weather, so keep an eye on those snow forecasts if you’re planning to tackle the long runs.
While Zermatt is open in the summer months, you won’t be able to do that run after April as the lower lifts and pistes close.
3. Alpe d’Huez, France – La Sarenne
- Start/End Points: Pic Blanc (3,330m) to Huez Village (1,450m)
- Length: 18km
- Vertical Drop: 1,880m
- Difficulty: Black (Advanced)
La Sarenne, situated in the French Alps, begins from the breathtaking heights of Pic Blanc, offering not only an outstandingly long descent but also panoramic views of the Parc National des Écrins. The longest black run in Europe is as challenging as it is scenic, with the initial steep section demanding technical skill before easing into a more serene and sweeping journey down to the charming village of Huez. The lift served vertical drop of La Sarenne is a remarkable 1,880 meters, making it a thrilling experience for advanced skiers and boarders.
Despite being an advanced run, intermediates might find that the initial challenges gives way to a thrilling and relatively accessible descent. There are a few flat sections to test snowboarders, but overall this is a stunning long ski run that is a must for any skier or snowboarder.
Alpe d’Huez offers plenty of long trails, so even if the black piste markers scare you off, you’ll easily find a thigh burning alternative trail to test your skills.
4. Les Deux Alpes, France – Glacier to Village 1650
- Start/End Points: Glacier (3,421m) to Mont de Lans Village (1,280m)
- Length: 16km
- Vertical Drop: 1,920m
- Difficulty: Green to Blue
One of the few longer runs suitable for beginners and families, the top of the glacier/Jandri to Village 1650 in Les Deux Alpes presents a gentler descent into the world of long-distance skiing. The run from the glacier is wide and forgiving, although there are a few flat sections to challenge beginner snowboarders. The descent then takes you down through the village to a small village below the main town – although the last section through the village is a green and not really ideal for snowboarders.
We thought the run from top to bottom in Les Dex Alpes was fun, fast and stunning, with lots of opportunities to take a break if you need. The views are stunning, of course, and the new Jandri Express gondola speeds up access to the top of the L2A ski area. The lift system provides efficient access to the top of the glacier, making it an essential part of the skiing experience.
With slopes that allow for playful meandering and relaxed skiing, this run provides a comprehensive experience that encapsulates the magnificence of the French Alps without the intimidating steepness found elsewhere.
Check out our full Les Deux Alpes review.
5. Revelstoke, Canada – Last Spike
- Start/End Points: Mt. Mackenzie Summit (2,225m) to Revelstoke Base (512m)
- Length: 15.2km
- Vertical Drop: 1,713m
- Difficulty: Green
Located within the vast beauty of the Canadian Rockies, Revelstoke’s Last Spike offers an impressively long run where skiers can enjoy a more relaxed skiing experience. This run, offering panoramic views of the Selkirk and Columbia mountains, is the longest in North America and caters to those who enjoy a leisurely pace. The route takes you past frozen waterfalls and through scenic routes, enhancing the overall enjoyment and appeal of the trails.
The meandering green run finishes up at the much-loved base village of Revelstoke, perfect for aprés ski after the long and scenic descent. This is a wonderful choice for families and less experienced skiers who want the thrill of a grand adventure without the steep slopes of more challenging runs.
6. Sölden, Austria – Schwarze Schneid to Gaislachkogl
- Start/End Points: Schwarze Schneid (3,340m) to Gaislachkogl (1,360m)
- Length: 15km
- Vertical Drop: 1,980m
- Difficulty: Red
This Austrian marvel begins amid the Ötztal Alps’ highest peaks, offering a descent that is both picturesque and thrilling. The predominantly red run requires technical finesse and endurance, taking skiers from the icy altitudes through wide alpine vistas and into the depths of serene valleys, culminating at the Gaislachkogl gondola station.
Solden is one of the most snow sure resorts in Austria, and there is lots of opportunity for off-piste and powder riding with the right conditions.
7. Saas Fee, Switzerland – Panorama
- Start/End Points: Mittelallalin Felskinn (3,500m) to Saas Fee (1,800m)
- Length: 15km
- Vertical Drop: 1,775m
- Difficulty: Red/Black
Running from the glacier to the town of Saas Fee, this red and black mixed run offers some gorgeous wide runs, stunning views and lots of options for off-piste on the way. With the high altitudes up here on the glacier, conditions are often perfect for riding a spot of powder.
This is also a reasonably accessible slope, a red marked piste, meaning that pretty much anyone can enjoy it. Kick it off with brunch at the world’s highest revolving restaurant at 3,500 metres to fuel your descent…
Saas Fee is also one of the best ski resorts for early season skiers, although the long top to bottom run won’t be open then.
8. Bansko, Bulgaria – Ski road
- Start/End Points: Plateau Rosa/Todorka (2,600m) to Bansko base gondola station (936 m)
- Length: 16km
- Vertical Drop: 1,600m
- Difficulty: Blue to Red
The top to bottom run in Bulgaria’s flagship resort is one of the longest in the world, at just under 16 kms. It’s also reasonably intermediate friendly, with a nice wide piste for most of the descent and not much in the way of obstacles to stop you enjoying the cruise. The descent takes you from the mountain top, through forested runs, into the heart of the resort and down to the base station in Bansko town.
The Ski Road is actually quite a sedate run which is suitable for beginners and intermediates, but the flat nature of some lower sections mean that snowboarders will need to be confident riding long flat sections. With that said, it is possible to keep your speed up on a board although if you fall you might end up walking quite a long way.
As this is the return to base at the end of the day, it can get a little congested and even choppy or slushy if the weather is warm. But it’s a great little run and one of the highlights of riding in Bansko.
Check out our Bansko review.
9. Grand Massif, France – Les Cascades
- Start/End Points: Grand Platière (2,480m) to Sixt Fer-à-Cheval (777m)
- Length: 14km
- Vertical Drop: 1,703m
- Difficulty: Green to Blue
Les Cascades, starting from the summit of Grand Platière and descending to the quaint village of Sixt Fer-à-Cheval, is a marvel for it’s views and gentle nature. This is more run on our list which is suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers with its mainly green to blue gradient. This ski run is unique in that it winds through a nature reserve, offering a tranquil setting far from the faster, more frequented runs.
You have a chance to view the Cascade de Rouget waterfall – from which the run gains its name – or meander through the charming, ancient village of Sixt Fer-à-Cheval, all under the watchful presence of the mighty Mont Blanc.
10. The 4 Valleys, Switzerland – La Piste de l’Ours
- Start/End Points: Greppon Blanc (2,700m) to Maysen de l’Ours (1,470m) or Veysonnaz (1,400m)
- Length: 15km
- Vertical Drop: 1,230m
- Difficulty: Red
This tricky red is just one of a number of thrilling and long pisted runs you can take across the 4 Vallees – Switzerland’s biggest ski area. La Piste de l’Ours takes you through the Veysonnaz section, from the Greppon Blanc down to Maysen de l’Ours via a series of quite tight paths, wide red pistes and stunning views across the 4 Vallees.
Summing up
If you’re looking for the most challenging and exciting ski runs in the world, we think any and all of these will tick your boxes. Whether you’re riding a snowboard or skis; or if you’re cruising on piste or hunting off-piste powder, all of these ski resorts offer a great variety of experiences.
Of course, this isn’t a definitive list of long, fun, cruisey pistes. And you’ll find some incredible long runs on resorts that we haven’t mentioned on here. For example, resorts like Grandvalira in Andorra, Suginohara in Japan or Jahorina in Bosnia also offer plenty of fun thigh burning descents to challenge you.
