Grindelwald Ski Resort Review
Grindelwald, set against the backdrop of the Bernese Oberland Mountains, is a small mountain village famous for the Eiger. Grindelwald is stunning and has access to its own slopes via a scenic train ride from the village. Forming part of the wider Jungfrau ski region, Grindelwald is a fantastic snowboard destination for epic Swiss Alps scenery, a traditional mountain village and more than enough terrain to keep you occupied.
Photo @dilolwa
GRINDELWALD FIRST IMPRESSIONS
My journey to Grindelwald took me to the resort by train from Geneva. Arriving in Grindelwald by train is an incredible way to get to a ski resort. The Swiss rail system is efficient and easy to navigate and offers some of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. As the train wound its way up towards the village of Grindelwald it is impossible to not be impressed by the surrounding mountains.
The village and ski area of Grindelwald sit under the impressive north face of the Eiger, however equally impressive are the peaks on Jungfrau and Mönch which are visible from the Grindelwald Wengen ski area. Grindelwald offers extensive terrain with a mix of trails for various abilities, some impressive off-piste and a beautiful setting that will be sure to make any ski trip special. When you consider that the Jungfrau ski area combines with Adelboden-Lenk, Gstaad, and Meiringen-Hasliberg to form the Top 4 Ski Pass, there are plenty of options here.
GRINDELWALD SKI AREA
Grindelwald ski area and the wider Jungfrau region, encompass 211km of pistes across three mountain ranges, Grindelwald-Wengen, Grindelwald-First and Mürren-Schilthorn . Not many ski areas can claim such a fantastic backdrop with the peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau all overlooking the slopes.
Locally Grindelwald-Wengen has 155km of pistes with a good amount of intermediate terrain serviced by 33 chairlifts. The 14% of advanced terrain is supplemented with some exceptional off-piste. Some areas are designated as non-ski zones to protect the local wildlife that resides in the region so be sure to look out for signs. There is around 1400m of vertical drop at Grindelwald-Wengen and this can lead to quite drastic changes in conditions. The higher reaches of the resort maintain a good quality of snow throughout the season however lower pistes can suffer.
GRINDELWALD TERRAIN
There are a number of mellow runs around the resort so beginners will feel they are able to explore. If you are looking to learn for the first time the Bodmi nursery slope could be a good location to start. Intermediates will love the longer blue and red runs that are perfect for cruising around the resort. Kleine Scheidegg is particularly good for this with number 21 piste making an excellent run back down to the Grindelwald terminal if the snow is good. On piste terrain is limited for advanced skiers and snowboarders with the majority of challenging terrain reliant on good snowfall off-piste.
GRINDELWALD SEASON DATES
Grindelwald normally opens in late November and closes in mid-April. For up to date opening and closing dates check here.
GRINDELWALD PISTE MAP
GRINDELWALD PROS
Grindelwald is a great base for intermediate skiers or boarders with a good choice of long reds and blue pistes
Grindelwald has some amazing scenery that is quite literally jaw-dropping.
Getting the train to the ski resort of Grindelwald is a unique and very cool experience.
Grindelwald has a large vertical drop of nearly 1400m.
Ability to come Grindelwald with a trip to other Top 4 ski areas Adelboden-Lenk, Gstaad, and Meiringen-Hasliberg
Grindelwald could be the perfect eco-ski trip. Travel from the UK by train all the way to the mountains.
GRINDELWALD CONS
Grindelwald is quite literally overshadowed by the Eiger, beautiful to look at but wouldn't mind more sunshine!
The village and trains can be overcrowded with tourists at peak times.
Runs lower down towards the village can suffer in the late and early season due to low altitude.
GRINDELWALD GALLERY
GRINDELWALD LIFT PASSS
Depending on the length of your stay and your adventure level there are a few different lift pass choices in Grindelwald. Most people visiting for a one week trip will be more then happy with the local area pass covering Grindelwald-Wengen. This pass gives you access to the local 155km area and costs around 300CHF for 6days.
If you are looking to explore wider afield and want to take advantage of the larger Jungfrau ski region then a Jungfrau pass is around 370CHF.
Skiers and snowboarders looking for a longer trip or multiple trips throughout the season should consider buying the season pass which is available at early bird prices for under 700CHF. This pass includes the area of Grindelwald-Wengen the wider Jungfrau and the resorts of Mürren, Gstaad, Adelboden and Meiringen.
TRAVEL TO GRINDELWALD
The ski resort of Grindelwald is located in central Switzerland near the town of Interlaken. Interlaken will be the major transit point for most visitors heading to Grindelwald by train with the town only 40 minutes away from the station of Interlaken Ost. From Interlaken, you can connect with all major cities and therefore the major international airports in Geneva, Zurich and Basel. Taking the train to the resort is a great option with the scenery on the journey from Geneva to Grindelwald ensuring the journey isn’t tedious.
If you fancy the drive, the transfer times from major airports are similar times to the train journeys. One advantage with driving is not needing to change vehicle along the route which will happen a couple of times on the train journey.
GRINDELWALD ACCOMMODATION
On my trip to Grindelwald, I was staying lower than the village itself along the train route from Interlaken to Grindelwald. The setting was a perfect Swiss chalet-style apartment with views across the valley in all directions. The novelty of getting the train to the resort was great and I would recommend this as an option.
The village of Grindelwald itself has plenty of variety of accommodation options as it is a year-round tourist destination.
GRINDELWALD INFORMATION
Website: www.grindelwald.swiss
Instagram: grindelwald_eiger
Twitter: @GrindelwaldCH
Arcteryx Aerios FL Mid GTX Review
INTRO
Arc’teryx introduced the Aerios FL GTX and Aerios FL GTX Mid hiking shoes as lightweight waterproof options for hikes on variable terrain. I have previously owned the Aerios FL GTX and recently started using the Aerios FL Mid GTX so all opinions are based on the actual use of both shoes. I wear a size 10UK which is my regular shoe size and the Aerios FL and Aerios Mid are both true to size. The following is based on a year of use in the UK mountains and Fells in the Brecon Beacons and Lake District National Park.
WHAT IS THE ARCTERYX AERIOS FL GTX / FL MID GTX?
The nice thing about Arc’teryx products is that the clue is always in the name. FL stands for Fast and Light which is a large part of the appeal of the Aerios shoes. GTX stands for the use of GORE-TEX as a waterproof membrane in the shoe. These two characteristics mean that the Aerios FL GTX is a great lightweight hiking shoe for variable conditions. Think of the Aerios FL as an extension of the Arcteryx trail running range that is known for its lightweight comfort but with added stability and durability.
OUT THE BOX
WEIGHT
Taking the Aerios FL GTX out of the box it is possible to see the first real pro, the weight. Weighing in at 690g (size 10 UK) and 740g for the Mid, these shoes are incredibly light. The synthetic upper contributes to this massively and is pliable which will help the comfort.
SOLE
A quick look at the sole and you can see there are deep lugs that should help with traction. The sole itself is a Vibram Megagrip sole. Vibram Megagrip is a rubber compound that is both extremely durable and reassuring in terms of grip.
OUTER
The outer of the shoe is constructed out of a lightweight Cordura Mesh and sealed with TPU high abrasion protection films in the harder wearing areas. The Cordura Mesh comes in one piece, reducing the need for additional stitching on the walking shoe. This lightweight mesh doesn’t hold water so dry’s quickly when wet.
The minimal stitching on the Aerios FL is a deliberate ploy by Arc’teryx. By reducing the stitching, to the front of the shoe under the laces and along the back of the heel, Arc’teryx has also reduced the likelihood that the stitching will fail. Occasionally get ripped after rubbing against corse materials like rocks.
WATERPROOFING
Attached to the inside of the Cordura Mesh is the GORE-TEX membrane that keeps your feet dry through wet weather activities. GORE-TEX is the biggest name and still pretty much regarded as the industry standard for waterproof membranes.
BUMPER
The toes are protected by a somewhat beefy toe guard. This toe guard prevents abrasion of the shoe in an area that is high use ensuring durability.
COMFORT
The Aerios FL has a compressed EVA foam midsole that runs the length of the shoe and acts to stabilise and add comfort to the shoe. The midsole is thicker under the heel but there is ample cushioning under the toe box as well.
AERIOS FL GTX PROS
Available in two heights, mid and low top, mean that this shoe can suit a broader range of preferences.
Aerios FL is incredibly grippy across surfaces due to the Vibram Megagrip sole so you can spend less time worrying about your footing and more time enjoying the view.
An incredibly light shoe that is perfect for day hikes or for multi-day trips when reducing weight is important.
The Arcteryx Aerios FL has a nice design that looks good as well as being functional.
AERIOS FL GTX CONS
Arc’teryx products are not cheap and at £160 for the Aerios Mid, these shoes are at the upper range for shoes in the same category.
The Aerios FL isn’t overly cushioned so some people may want more in terms of comfort. The Ortholite insole that comes with the shoe offers 4mm of cushioning but this can be replaced for a more cushioned insole.
I would like to see offered in waterproof and non-waterproof versions similar to Arc’teryx trail shoes.
COMFORT
It doesn’t take long-wearing the Arc’teryx Aerios FL to realise it will not be the most cushioned shoe. Despite this, I found it an incredibly comfortable shoe. The Aerios FL is a stiff shoe and initially, this did lead to some blistering on my heel. The more I have used the shoe the softer the heel cup has become but the shoe retains its stiffness throughout the length of the sole. I have found no pressure points from the tongue or laces making this a very comfortable shoe.
GRIP
The success of a hiking shoe like the Aerios FL will most probably be decided on its traction. It is all well and good being incredibly light and comfortable but if the shoe doesn’t fill you with confidence on a range of terrain you probably wouldn’t use it. So far I have used the Aerios FL on; roads, public footpaths, fields, hills, woods, beaches and fells. Across all-terrain, I have found that the traction of the Vibram Megagrip sole was great. I haven’t slipped out, despite walking in some very wet conditions.
SUPPORT
My main concern with using the Aerios FL as my go-to walking footwear would be that it is a low top. As someone who has previously injured ankles, I prefer the support of a boot. That being said on the walks I have tested these shoes on I have had little trouble with unexpected ankle rolls. Carrying the added weight of a pack over rocks and uneven terrain caused no issues and I was generally impressed with how the shoe performed. If like me, you worry about your ankles this you should order the Aerios Mid version which will provide more support.
WEIGHT
As mentioned in the intro the Aerios FL is an extremely light pair of shoes. At 690g for the pair, it is hard to find a similar shoe on the market. I do worry with lighter products that they may lack durability over time but one year in and my Aerios FL shoes have stood the test of time.
WATERPROOFING AND BREATHABILITY
There is an argument that waterproofing in a shoe rather than a boot can be pretty pointless. The lop top design will normally lead to water entering the shoe in harsh weather conditions. The Gore-Tex held up well to rain as expected with no spots that held water.
DURABILITY
Buying Arc’teryx products often comes with a sense of reliability that befits the price tag. The Aerios FL Mid GTX are not cheap at £160 but this price tag reflects the craftsmanship. .
LOOK
The least important aspect of a hiking shoe is its looks but I guess it is still worth commenting on. The Arcteryx Aerios FL is an aesthetically pleasing shoe that doesn’t look out of place around town. This actually makes the shoe quite versatile as it could double as your walking shoe during the day and your round the town shoe at night. This could help you reduce weight in your pack and also help the price tag seem a little less steep.
AERIOS FL GALLERY
FINAL THOUGHTS
I have enjoyed wearing this shoe over the past year in a range of conditions. The shoe has stood the test of time and has been used during many walks across the fells in the Lake District and mountains of the Brecon Beacons. Overall I would recommend it to walkers who are looking for a lighter alternative to their bulky walking boots.
PURCHASE THE ARC’TERYX AERIOS FL
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Sanosaka Ski Resort Guide
Set in a beautiful location overlooking Lake Aokiko and away from the hub surrounding Happo One, Sanosaka is off the beaten track. A combination of Sanosaka’s location and an irregular bus service ensures that Sanosaka remains a crowd-free resort. People regularly use the terms quiet or crowd-free to describe ski resorts but at Sanosaka I genuinely felt that I was the only person there. Sanosaka is overlooked by many visitors which is an oversight as Sanosaka offers incredible views and uncrowded slopes.
SANOSAKA FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Arriving at Sanosaka you would be forgiven for thinking you are in the wrong place. The bus drops you at the road, a short walk into the resort. As you head through the car park you will notice there are very few cars and you know you will have a good day ahead. This feeling is amplified as soon as you walk through the main doors at the base area where I was met by @jupbrown an enthusiastic Kiwi who manages the resort. I have honestly never felt so welcomed at a ski resort and this personal touch makes a big difference!
Got to love having a ski resort to yourself
HAKUBA SANOSAKA SKI AREA
Even for Japanese resorts, it’s fair to say that Sanosaka is small. One of the smallest resorts in the Hakuba Valley with a vertical drop of 460m and 5 chairlifts Sanosaka is easily overlooked. Looking at the trail map doesn’t really do Sanosaka justice.
Sanosaka Piste Map
At Sanosaka the limited terrain is well maintained with perfect wide groomed pistes making it perfect for working on those carves. With 60% of the runs classified as red or black, Sanosaka is a resort that can offer a challenge although no pitch is particularly steep. There are plans for development at Sanosaka with the resort looking to purchase the closed down Aokiko which sits between Sanosaka and Kashimayari. This would significantly increase the ski area and make riding from Sanosaka to Kashimayari possible by chairlift.
My favourite run was Lake Down Trail which I continuously lapped. This run has some of the best views in the resort and is a nice wide groomer with some small park features at the bottom. This run made my list of the BEST FIVE RUNS IN HAKUBA.
BEGINNERS TERRAIN AT HAKUBA SANOSAKA
Beginners will find learning at Sanosaka particularly enjoyable. Firstly the terrain near the base area has a suitable learning slope with everything needed for your first lessons nearby; ski school, rentals, etc. With some mellow blue terrain, Sanosaka would be a particularly nice resort for beginners to progress at as they can head out around the rest of the Hakuba mountains.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN AT HAKUBA SANOSAKA
Intermediates will thrive at Sanosaka with most of the terrain at Sanosaka being nice wide groomed runs. Sanosaka ski resorts Lake Down Trail is the best of these with a wide pisted run down to a small terrain park nearer the chairlift. There is little to worry intermediate skiers and snowboarders at Sanosaka and they may even be tempted by the kinder black-graded terrain.
ADVANCED TERRAIN AT HAKUBA SANOSAKA
The advanced terrain at Sanosaka is negligible with only a couple of runs having any real pitch to them. Two steeper pitch runs in area C of the trail map alongside a mogul course near the base area are probably the pick of the lot at Sanosaka.
FREESTYLE TERRAIN AT HAKUBA SANOSAKA
There is a small terrain park at Sanosaka that consisted of two medium-sized jumps and some ride on tubes and rails. Better terrain parks are available elsewhere in the Hakuba Valley.
LIFTS AT HAKUBA SANOSAKA
Five chairlifts seem excessive for a resort of Sanosaka’s size but the lift infrastructure is pretty good. A fast lift from the base area into the main area of the resort alongside another fast lift that allows you to lap Lake Down Trail. Further slower two and three-person lifts make up the rest of the offering at Sanosaka.
HAKUBA SANOSAKA PROS
Hakuba Sanosaka ski area is quieter than the other Hakuba Valley ski resorts.
No lift lines make Sanosaka ski resort particularly appealing
Sanosaka’s great groomed terrain makes it a fantastic resort to hit first thing in the morning.
It would be interesting to hit Sanosaka on a powder day as you would have no crowds to fight with for freshies.
HAKUBA SANOSAKA CONS
Hakuba Sanosaka has a poor transport link up with the rest of Hakuba meaning bus options are few and far between.
Further from the centre getting to Sanosaka ski resort takes longer which can eat into your on snow time.
TRAVEL TO HAKUBA SANOSAKA SKI RESORT
Sanosaka is a little removed from the main hub of Hakuba Resorts. Sat between Kashimayari at one end of the valley and the main hub of Happo, Goryu and Hakuba 47 you can arrive at Sanosaka by train or via the free shuttle buses. Free shuttle buses run to Hakuba Sanosaka from the Happo Bus Terminal but are limited. The bus stops near the resort but doesn’t go in meaning a short walk to the resort from the roadside. Sanosaka is on the same bus route as Kashimayari ski resort. The 8:30 am bus will be your earliest option. For an up-to-date bus timetable click here
HAKUBA SANOSAKA SNOW RECORD
Sanosaka ski resort is in the Hakuba Valley which receives copious amounts of snow. At the other end of the Valley to Cortina which receives 12m per season, Sanosaka’s snow stats are less readily available. Sanosaka will receive less snow than Cortina but it will still receive around 8-10m of snow per winter.
HAKUBA SANOSAKA LIFT PASSES
HAKUBA VALLEY PASS
If you are planning to visit more Hakuba Valley ski resorts than Hakuba Sanosaka it may be worth picking up a Hakuba Valley pass. The Hakuba Valley Pass not only offers access to the slopes but the interconnecting resort shuttles. This means your transport and skiing are included on the same pass. Find out more by watching the video below.
EPIC PASS
If you are an Epic Pass season pass holder then you will get access to the resorts of the Hakuba Valley included with your pass. The Epic Pass allows for 5 consecutive days of skiing in the Hakuba Valley, additional tickets can be purchased at a discount.
PAY AS YOU PLAY
If you want more freedom to choose your day-to-day activities and resorts you won't lose much money by paying on the day. Paying for your lift passes on the day offers a number of benefits. You can get full-day, morning or afternoon passes which offers flexibility.
MORE HAKUBA VIDEOS
HAKUBA SANOSAKA GALLERY
ACCOMMODATION AT HAKUBA SANOSAKA
The traditional village around Sanosaka offers a more authentic feel than Hakuba village, but what you gain in authenticity you lose in surrounding amenities. This is why most people make the day trip to Sanosaka. It is unlikely you will opt to stay at Hakuba Sanosaka as it is further away from the main resorts. It would be better to find accommodation closer to Hakuba Base Camp and Echoland.
I stayed at Nori’s sharehouse, which is a no-frills share home in the Hakuba Village. The location was good and I had no complaints about my stay. The house even had a workstation to tune your gear. There are plenty of other accommodation options in and around Hakuba.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON HAKUBA SANOSAKA
I had my best non-powder day in Japan at Hakuba Sanosaka and I think that probably says all you need to know. Yes, it is small. Yes, other resorts have more runs. Yes, there is more challenging terrain elsewhere…. but Sanosaka is special. To have a ski resort pretty much to yourself is awesome and when the runs are maintained so well it’s hard to want to snowboard anywhere else.
How To Choose Your Snowboard Stance
Ensuring that you have the perfect snowboard set up for you will be a determining factor on how much fun you have on the mountain. Snowboard stance is a huge part of your snowboard set up and will help you dial feel comfortable and balanced on your snowboard. There is not a one size fits all approach to determining your snowboard stance so this post aims to provide you with advice that will help you decide the best snowboard stance set up for you.
WHAT IS MEANT BY SNOWBOARD STANCE?
Let’s start by defining what is meant by snowboard stance. Your snowboard stance refers to your bindings position on the snowboard. This can include; where to position your snowboard bindings, the angles your bindings are set to, the width of your snowboard stance, and whether you set up regular or goofy.
WHAT DETERMINES YOUR SNOWBOARD STANCE?
Your snowboard stance will be influenced by a number of factors with perhaps your riding style and what you want to do on your snowboard being the most influential. You may choose to adjust your stance depending on the conditions and where you intend to ride that day. For example, It is unlikely that you will ride with the same stance in powder as you would in the park. You may still ride with the same angles but it is likely that you will get better powder performance with a set-back stance. You should also consider your height and the type of snowboard you are using when choosing your snowboard stance.
REGULAR OR GOOFY?
One of the first decisions you will make when learning to snowboard is whether you ride regular or goofy. These terms refer to whether you ride with your left foot forward (regular) or right foot forward (goofy). This can be a hard decision to make if you have no context to refer to as its likely you will be making this decision before stepping onto your snowboard. Luckily there are some tests you can do that may provide some indication as to whether you will snowboard regular or goofy.
Do you have any previous board sport experience? Whether it is surfing, skating or wakeboarding your previous experience in board sports should help you decide whether you are regular or goofy. If you ride a skateboard with your left foot forward it is most likely you will be regular on a snowboard as well.
The Push Test
This doesn’t always work but can be a good indication of whether or you are a regular or goofy snowboarder. Close your eyes and have someone gently push you from behind. The foot that you step forward with is most likely going to be your front foot on your snowboard.
The Slide Test
Everyone loves a good slide along a hardwood floor and this test can help you determine whether you are goofy or regular. Set up with a pair of socks take a short run up and then slide across the floor. If you are already at the ski resort, you can do this on the snow in your snowboard boots. The foot that you place forward is the foot that you will use to lead your snowboard.
Dont Worry
If you are unsure then there is no need to panic. For beginners most boards are set up centred in duck stance (both bindings at the same angles) this means that the snowboard should ride the same in both directions. Take a couple of runs alternating the foot that was forward. This should help you determine whether you are regular or goofy stance.
Selecting The Correct Snowboard Stance Width
Often overlooked your snowboard stance width will affect your balance on your board therefore affecting how easy it is to manoeuvre the snowboard. Like with most aspects of snowboard stance there is going to be some trial and error involved in choosing the correct width for your snowboard stance and personal preferences.
Reference stance
Most snowboards come with recommended stance marked on the board. This is known as your reference stance. Although this is a good guide it is not a one size fits all approach and you should allow for some flexibility with your stance width. The reference stance is the stance that that board has been designed around but depending on whether you like to ride a slightly shorter or longer board this may need some adjustment.
Measure your stance from the middle of both bindings
I am 6ft and ride with a 22.5inch stance width. This took some refining over time and is the width I feel most comfortable with. It is likely if you are shorter than me you will want a narrower stance width. Similarly a taller rider may want to increase the width of their stance in comparison to mine.
Using a snowboard stance calculator is a good place to start but you should refine this information over time to get your desired stance width.
SETBACK OR CENTRED STANCE
Whether you decide to ride with a setback or centred stance on your snowboard will likely depend on two things; where you are riding (piste, park or powder) and how much time you spend riding switch.
If you like to ride switch then having a centred stance is better for ensuring that your snowboard rides and feels the same both in your regular and switch stance. This can be useful for landings for 180’s, 560’s etc where you land facing the reverse of how you take off. A centred stance can help you feel balanced on the board whilst performing ground tricks and butters as well.
If you like to ride directionally whether on or off-piste then having a set-back stance may suit your riding style. Having a setback stance in powder reduces the amount of effort you need to put in to keep your boards nose elevated out of the snow. This means you are less likely to have that dreaded back leg burn on those powder days. Another benefit to riding with a setback stance is that your board has a shorter tail. This means the board can be easier to Ollie or drive through your turns using your back foot.
Twin snowboards are normally set up centred.
Freeride boards normally have some setback to improve carving and powder performance
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR SNOWBOARD STANCE ANGLES
Setting your snowboard angles correctly is one of the most important aspects of your snowboard set up. Your binding angles will determine how efficient your body can be at driving the snowboard through a turn. You may wish to adjust your binding angles depending on the type of snowboarding you are doing. Let’s delve deeper into some of the snowboard binding angle options.
WHAT ARE SNOWBOARD STANCE ANGLES?
Setting binding angles refers to how the bindings are angled on the snowboard. Bindings come with a baseplate that allows you to set stance angles between +30 and - 30 degrees. We will delve into the nuts and bolts of binding angles below but it is most common for the front foot to be a + angle and the backfoot a - angle.
FRONT FOOT
I have never met a snowboarder that doesn’t have their front foot angled towards the nose of their snowboard. Furthermore I can’t think of any reason why you wouldn't. The extent to which you angle your front binding will depend on your style of riding and what you want to achieve. An angle of +15 degrees is popular and is in the middle of the possible options. Utilising a +15 to +18 front foot angle seems to be the sweet spot for most of those I have asked.
BACK FOOT
The back foot is where people tend to have more variation in their binding stance angles. This can be influenced by the style of riding that person likes to do the most. Let’s look into some of the popular options.
DUCK
Duck refers to having your front and back feet facing in opposite directions. True duck is where those angles are the same; for example +15 (front) -15 (back) degrees. A duck stance is popular with freestyle orientated riders that like to spend time riding switch as well as regular. Snowboard bindings angles for park do not need to be true duck stance but this may help you feel more balanced when riding switch.
BACK FOOT ZERO
Having a Zero angle on your back foot means that your backfoot runs perpendicular to the snowboard. Using a zero binding angle on your backfoot is where I started before playing around with other stance angle options. Having a zero angle can help you drop your back knee linearly towards the snow helping you lean into toe-edge carves.
BACKFOOT POSITIVE
This has never felt good for me but is popular especially amongst freeriders who like to carve. Running a backfoot positive binding angle can make it more tricky to ride switch, but this remains possible with practice.
CHANGING YOUR STANCE
Changing and adapting your stance over time is natural and is part of how you and your snowboarding evolves. Taking the time to adapt your stance will allow you to feel out your preferred stance with micro adjustments that will eventually land on your preferred stance. You may wish to adapt your stance differently depending on the board you are riding and where you plan to head that day. Personally my stance width tends to stay the same regardless of the snowboard I ride, however my angles and setback will change dependant on where I want to ride that day.
Monata Roca Ski & Snowboard Helmet Review
MONATA ROCA SKI HELMET
The Monata Roca ski helmet is a lightweight and low-profile ski helmet suitable for skiers and snowboarders.
Price: $39.99
VIDEO REVIEW
OVERVIEW
The Monata Roca snowboard helmet comes in a pretty healthy price $39.99 so with this my initial worry was whether the low price meant low quality. I am happy to say that my thoughts on the Monata snowboard helmet were mostly positive. The helmet is lightweight and low profile which makes it comfortable to wear. Adding to the comfort is the fleece lining on the inside of the ski helmet and the removable padded ear warmers. There is a BOA style adjustment on the rear of the helmet and an adjustable chin strap to dial in the fit. The top of the helmet has eight vents to allow air to flow through the helmet.
THE FIT
The Monata snowboard helmet has a good fit mostly due to the adjustability of the helmet. The large size I tested is able to fit heads size 53cm-60cm in diameter. The dial fit system on the rear of the helmet resembles a BOA allowing you to tighten or loosen the helmet.
THE COMFORT
The helmet is comfortable with soft materials being used in areas that can become irritable. The soft ear pads and the padded chin straps are great examples of this.
THE VENTILATION
The Monata snowboard helmet has eight vents on the top of the helmet to allow air to circulate through the helmet.
GOGGLE COMPATABILITY
As demonstrated in the video above the Monata ski and snowboard helmet has a good fit with a range of ski goggles. Choosing a helmet that fits well with your goggles is important for comfort and ensuring a complete barrier from the elements.
Goggles fit well whether worn over or under the Monata helmet. There is a goggle clip on the rear to keep your goggles in place.
STYLE
This is always going to be somewhat of a personal opinion but I think that the Monata Roca snowboard helmet looks good. It has a low profile design so it doesn’t look clunky or oversized which to me is a win.
Disclaimer - This item was gifted to me to review. My opinions remain my own and thoughts on the product are genuine.
Landgraaf Snowworld
Snowboarding in Europe’s flattest country? Yes, it is possible. Snowworld at Landgraaf is Europes largest indoor snowdome with five pistes of varying ability. The snowdome at Landgraaf is a one-stop-shop for a different kind of adventure holiday with lots of activities besides the ski slopes.
Snowworld Landgraaf
Trying to explain to your mates that you are travelling internationally to visit an indoor ski slope can be met with confused faces. Here in the UK we have indoor snowdomes and international travel could be better spent travelling to actual mountains… but I have to say Landgraaf intrigued me. I firmly believe there is a place for indoor skiing and snowboarding and Landgraaf offers this but on a much larger scale than is possible currently in the UK.
LANDGRAAF SNOWWORLD FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Arriving at Landgraaf the scale hits you immediately. Over double the size of the Hemel Hempstead Snow Centre main slope and with a 6 seater chairlift it was easy to see the appeal. The chairlift alone makes the experience at Landgraaf better than our UK alternatives. The facility at Landgraaf has plenty to do away from the ski slopes. A large go-ape style climbing activity called the Adventure Valley, an Alpine Coaster and a zip wire course are some of the highlights. There is a convenient hotel on the site, a ski and snowboard shop and a choice of three restaurants.
LANDGRAAF SNOWWORLD SKI AREA
The ski area at Snowworld Landgraaf consists of five slopes including the largest indoor terrain park in Europe.
Piste 1
Red Piste
400m Length
FIS Official
Piste 2
Blue Piste
400m Length
Terrain Park
Europes Largest Indoor Terrain Park
Jump Line
Rails
Boxes
Beginners Area
Two slopes
Magic Carpets
Tubing Run
LIFTS AT LANDGRAAF
Landgraaf has a 6-seater chairlift that serves the three main slopes.
Slope 1 at Landgraaf has a button lift that runs top to bottom as well as access to the chairlift
Slope 2 at Landgraaf has a button lift running from the base area in addition to the chairlift.
Slope 3 the Landgraaf terrain park has its own short button lift if you want to lap quickly rather than heading to the base to take the chairlift
Slope 4 and 5 in the Landgraaf beginners area have magic carpets.
LANDGRAAF SNOW
The indoor ski slopes at Landgraaf is kept chilled to a brittle -4/-5 degree celcius. This cool temperature allows the piste crew at Landgraaf to keep the snow in good condition. As with most indoor areas if you are looking for pristine pistes then heading early in the morning will provide the best conditions before the slopes have been cut up throughout the day.
WHEN IS LANDGRAAF OPEN
Landgraaf snowworld is open year-round meaning you can get your snow fix throughout all seasons. The lifts start turning at 8:00 and run until 23:00 daily.
SNOWWORLD LANDGRAAF VIDEOS
TRAVEL TO SNOWWORLD LANDGRAAF
WHERE IS LANDGRAAF SNOWWORLD?
Snowworld Landgraaf is in the South of The Netherlands near the border with Germany. 141 miles from Amsterdam’s Schipol Airport, you may find it easier to access Landgraaf from Cologne or Dusseldorf across the border.
HOW TO GET TO LANDGRAAF
Hiring a car at your arrival point will probably be your easiest option, especially if you are carrying your ski/snowboard gear. The drive from Amsterdam was simple but uninteresting with a large majority of motorway driving.
INTERNATIONAL
Flights into; Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Cologne and Dusseldorf are all possible.
SNOWWORLD LANDGRAAF ACCOMMODATION
There are plenty of affordable accommodation options available in and around Landgraaf. I opted to stay in the less affordable but more convenient hotel at Snowworld Landgraaf and was very happy with the decision. Staying on-site meant that you were a short walk from the slopes and activities.
Consider using the link below to look for your SNOWWORLD LANDGRAAF Accommodation.
SNOWWORLD LANDGRAAF PROS
Landgraaf has two long slopes and the added terrain park which make is much larger then similar facilities in the UK.
Snowboarding indoors means that the conditions for learning are optimal year round.
Landgraaf Snowworld lift tickets were actually pretty reasonable with plenty of options to ensure you can make the most of your time on the slopes.
Landgraaf has a red graded piste that is FIS certified for races and training.
SNOWWORLD LANDGRAAF CONS
Indoor snowboarding can become repetitive
More entry-level features should be used in the Landgraaf fun park for beginners getting into freestyle.
LANDGRAAF SNOWWORLD GALLERY
Tiger Ridge Terrain Park
With the increasing excitement around the 2022 Beijing Olympics, there has been a steady demand for facilities available for public access across China. China has obliged and ski resorts and indoor facilities have been opening nationwide, with the South China Morning Post reporting that at present China has 700 ski resorts. One such project is Tiger Ridge Terrain Park, found in the North East of China close to the border with North Korea. Tiger Ridge is a purpose-built facility aimed at freestyle skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and Mountain Bike and Skating in the summer.
TIGER RIDGE TERRAIN PARK FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I didn’t know what to expect when arriving at Tiger Ridge. There was not a lot of information online regarding the ski resort or accommodation but a Youtube video had piqued my interest and I decided I had to go. All inquiries and my booking had taken place via WeChat, a Chinese social media app, where I had found that Tiger Ridge had a very personal customer service. This was the case on my arrival, where despite a very delayed flight and arriving extremely late, I was met by Fred who showed me to my accommodation. The accommodation was an on snow chalet big enough to host around 10 people comfortably and there were no other guests for the week. I was keen to get as much sleep as possible after a long journey especially as my flight delay had been caused by a snowstorm. Tomorrow was going to be an April powder day!
Rising early I got my first look at Tiger Ridge with a blanket of fresh snow. The base facilities are modern with a reception area, ski rental department, cafe, and more accommodations. I collected my lift pass and headed up the first chairlift. The chair from the base takes you up to the resorts main intersection. From here you have the option to ski back down to the base along with a fairly steep pitch or down the backside. The backside of Tiger Ridge Terrain Park is where the fun is found, three alleys (pistes) all with a varying range of freestyle features. This was going to be fun.
TIGER RIDGE TERRAIN PARK SKI AREA
Tiger Ridge Terrain Park is a small ski resort with only four trails or pistes. These runs are accessed via two chairlifts which run on either the front side or backside of the resort. The resort itself only has a vertical drop of 220m with its base area at 950m but given the nature of the resort, this is not an issue.
The resort calls its trails ‘The Alleys’ with each alley offering something a little different and being suited for an ability level. Despite only having four trails I was never bored at Tiger Ridge during my visit and this is thanks to the Park Crew who crafted some great facilities and there was a clear progression.
Frontside
The frontside of the ski resort is where you will find one steep pitch and a mini-park. The steep run that leads back to the base was a really nice groomed run that led down to a large jump complete with an airbag. The jump and the airbag were not open to everyone but that was probably a good thing in my case as I may have pushed my boundaries too far. However, it was great to see future Olympic hopefuls practicing their tricks on the airbag and it goes some way to demonstrating the quality of the facilities at this ski resort.
Backside
The backside of Tiger Ridge Terrain Park has three alleys, Small, Medium and Large. On these Alleys, you will find a progression of features and all of the Alleys lead down to the same chairlift. For a full ride through off the resort check out the video below.
LIFTS AT TIGER RIDGE
Tiger Ridge Terrain Park has two chairlifts and a magic carpet but there is a more interesting way to access the slopes, skidoo. At Tiger Ridge it is possible to hire your own sled driver and sled so that you can quickly lap the resort without needing to rely on the slow chairs.
TIGER RIDGE SNOW RECORD
Tiger Ridge is not blessed with mass amounts of snowfall. The benefit of skiing and snowboarding in the Changbaishan region is the cold temps tend to keep the snow in good condition for longer. Tiger Ridge also does a good job of snowmaking with snow stored for lean periods.
SEASON DATES
The Ski Season at Tiger Ridge runs between December - April. The majority of the snow at Tiger Ridge is man-made although there is natural snowfall. I was fortunate to have fresh snow during the first week of April but if you want to be certain of conditions I wouldn’t leave it this late in the season.
TIGER RIDGE VIDEOS
TRAVEL TO TIGER RIDGE TERRAIN PARK
WHERE IS TIGER RIDGE?
Tiger Ridge ski resort is found in the North East of China near the Changbai Mountain and the border with North Korea. The resort itself is situated in-between Erdaobaihe and the Changbai Mountain.
HOW TO GET TO TIGER RIDGE
INTERNATIONAL
If accessing Tiger Ridge Terrain Park from outside of China you will first want to enter via one of the large international airports. It is possible to get a connecting flight via Beijing or Shanghai which are probably the most suitable entry points.
DOMESTIC
Once on the mainland, you will need to take a connecting flight to Changbaishan Airport. Internal flights are reasonable in China and from Shanghai, the journey was only a couple of hours. From the airport, in Changbaishan you will need to head towards the town of Erdaobaihe where it is possible to stay if you are not staying directly at the resort. Prior to your flight contact the team at Tiger Ridge via the website and they will be happy to arrange a taxi transfer to the resort for you. The journey from the airport is around two hours of weather dependant.
TIGER RIDGE ACCOMMODATION
At the resort you will find varying accommodation options, from large Chalet-style residences to double or single rooms in the base area. The standard of accommodation at Tiger Ridge was very good. If you do not want to stay in the resort, which can be quite quiet after hours, you can focus your accommodation search around the town of Erdaobaihe where you will find hotels and guesthouses. The town of Erdaobaihe has a bit more going on with restaurants and shops to keep you occupied in the evening.
Consider using the link below to look for your Tiger Ridge Accommodation.
TIGER RIDGE PROS
Purpose-built facility with great freestyle terrain with a focus on progression.
Mostly quiet ski resort and if you discount the athletes there were barely any tourists skiing here.
Ideally located to add on a day trip to Heaven Lake which is absolutely stunning and marks the border of China and North Korea.
On snow accommodation possible meaning you can head straight to the lift from your front door.
TIGER RIDGE CONS
The resort pretty much shuts down after the lifts close meaning there is not a lot to do in the evenings.
Lifts can run slow which can cause queues at the bottom of the Small, Medium, and Large Alleys.
Mostly man-made snow means conditions need to be right to ensure good snow coverage.
TIGER RIDGE GALLERY
TIGER RIDGE TERRAIN PARK FINAL THOUGHTS
I really enjoyed my visit to Tiger Ridge but I visited with one aim in mind, improving my freestyle snowboarding. I wanted to visit a resort where I wouldn’t be tempted to ride any other terrain so I could focus on progression and for this purpose, Tiger Ridge exceeded my expectations. During my week here my freestyle riding progressed and my confidence grew which is a reflection of the facilities on offer and why China are using this resort as one of their training bases for their winter sports athletes.
13 Reasons To Ski In China
You’ve worked hard for your holiday and sometimes taking a risk with that time isn’t that appealing. Taking a trip to China to ski or snowboard could be seen as a risk as China does not have the same reputation in the ski world as other countries. However, what you may not know is there there is a ski scene in China and its popularity is growing.
PLENTY OF CHOICES
China is huge! With this in mind, it offers a diverse range of ski and snowboard opportunities. China has been going through a boom in regard to interest in skiing and snowboarding, and this has seen the development of new ski resorts across the country. There are over 700 ski resorts in China to choose from and this means you can definitely find one to suit your needs. From small resorts with a local feel to large international companies like Club Med Yabuli, China has everything.
CHINESE CULTURE
China has a culture that is diverse and completely different to anything I had experienced previously. A ski trip to China allows you to get those laps in during the day but also experience a wonderful culture at night. Whether it is eating local food delicacies or taking part in a Chinese calligraphy class, there will be ways for you to immerse yourself in history and local life.
SAFETY IN CHINA
Despite what the mainstream media may have you believe, China is an incredibly safe place to visit. Whether you like it or not China and its monitoring of its citizens and visitors actually make it a very safe place. You will need to use your passport to book your travel on public transport, such as the national rail network, in the same way, local citizens need to show their ID cards. You will notice a police presence but not in an overbearing way. But the most important reason you should feel safe in China is the people. Ultimately, Chinese nationals want you to have a great experience in their country.
THE LOCALS
The local people are incredibly welcoming and proud to host you in their country. During my time in China I found the Chinese to be incredibly helpful and the ski resorts were no exception. During my days on snow in China, I met many locals who were interested to know why I had chosen to visit China to snowboard. They were proud to tell me about their country and the best spots I should check out on future trips.
SKI FACILITIES IN CHINA
Being a constantly evolving country China has some of the best infrastructures in the world. Whether we are talking about the skyscrapers that seem to touch the clouds or the bullet trains that decrease journey times significantly, China is ahead of the curve. Not only does some of this infrastructure make your journey to the ski resort less troublesome but it is now being applied within the ski resorts to improve the guest experience. With the development of modern resorts, China has been investing money to ensure they are improving the quality of their facilities. Shijinglong Ski Resort near Beijing has invested in a nearby reservoir to ensure its snowmaking capabilities are increased, whereas Tiger Ridge near Changbaishan has recruited foreign experts in terrain park design to ensure features that are primed!
CHINESE LANDMARKS
Have you ever dreamt about standing on the Great Wall of China or visiting the forbidden city? Well, it is possible to do these things when combined with a Chinese ski trip. Consider heading to Beijing where you will find; Huaibei, Shijinglong, Badaling, Nanshan, and many more ski areas. From any of these resorts it would be possible to tag on a trip to the landmarks of China’s capital.
THE BIRTHPLACE OF SKIING
So when you think of the history of skiing maybe China doesn’t spring straight to mind. Maybe your mind is clouded with thoughts of Austrians in lederhosen yodelling as they make their way down the mountain. Or the Swiss making their ascent of the Alps on the back of a St Bernard before skiing into a powder field.. Ok sorry for the stereotyping but I guess China didn’t come into your mind. Well, some historians can date skiing in China back to the year 206BC. Skiers in the Altai region would fashion skis out of long pieces of wood, attach horsehair to the bottom and push themselves across the range with a long pole.
WORLD LARGEST INDOOR SKI SLOPES
Ok so you are visiting in summer and you don’t think you can ski, wrong! China is home to a number of purpose-built indoor skiing facilities across the country. From Beijing to Shaoxing you can find somewhere to strap into a snowboard at any time of year. If you are planning to ski indoors it might as well be at the world’s largest indoor ski resort. You will find the largest indoor ski resort in Harbin, home to the famous ice festival, and it is huge! Harbin Resort offers an indoor black slope, a terrain park and an ice castle!
CHINESE SKIING IS AFFORDABLE
Skiing and snowboarding in China does not need to be expensive. In fact, it can be an absolute steal. In China, you are a long way away from the overpriced lift tickets of Vail resorts or the €8 for a small plate of pomme frites in France. Eating lunch on the mountain can often be cheaper than bringing your own with noodle bars available alongside western alternatives. Most impressive though was the cost of accommodation. I stayed in a Chalet adjacent to the slopes at Tiger Ridge and it cost around £80 per night including a lift ticket. Similarly, you can pick up a week’s all-inclusive holiday at Club Med Yabuli for half the price of a stay at their European resorts.
HELI_SKIING IN CHINA
Our second stop to the Altai region on this list is for heli-skiing. As far as I am aware the Altai mountains are the one region in China where you can heli-ski commercially. The same operator also offers cat-skiing and snowmobile operations to help you access some of the best-untouched powder runs in the region. The benefits of heli-skiing in China are much the same as anywhere else in the world, except it tends to be a bit more budget-friendly.
CHINESE FOOD
Chinese food is amongst the most popular cuisines in the UK but this does not really tell you the story. Most people who eat local food in China will tell you it is not the same as you would experience at Chinese restaurants in the west, but this is not a bad thing. On the mainland you will be able to find a range of traditional dishes not experienced elsewhere, and depending on which region you are in you should research their local specialities. In addition to the Chinese traditional dishes, you will find a range of foods and restaurants influenced by other Asian countries and cultures.
BEIJING WINTER OLYMPICS
The biggest event in winter sports is coming to China and Beijing 2022 is set to be massive. Beijing will host a number of ski and snowboard events across its local ski resorts and this should go some way to demonstrate the quality of facilities. If skiing and snowboarding in China is good enough for Olympians then it is good enough for me.
STEP OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE
Not to generalize but for most people a trip to China will be a step outside of your comfort bubble, it was for me anyway. This would apply when visiting the most accessible places like Shanghai with its English signage and easy to use metro system. Even more of a step outside your comfort zone would be a trip into the mountains, where locally your language is not spoken, there 100% will be no English signs and some of the apps that you could use elsewhere to ease the burden may not work. I actually found on my visit to Tiger Ridge Terrain Park that this was exactly my situation. But this made the experience even more fulfilling, from finding ways to communicate with locals to sharing a passion for snowboarding with local youth, China gives you the opportunity to grow as a person.
There you have it, 13 reasons why you should ski or snowboard at a Chinese ski resort this coming winter. But now I want to hear from you. Is China on your hit list? Would you consider it as a ski destination? If not, why? Let me know below in the comments.
A Guide To Snowboarding In Italy
Italy has become one of my favourite ski and snowboard destinations. For some reason lacking the popularity of neighbouring France and Switzerland, Italy offers world class facilities and extensive resort areas that can rival any European destination. All of this whilst being much more affordable than a visit across the border.
Photo @KarinHiselius
On a trip to Italy you will have a high chance of good weather, with my January 2020 visit to Ski Rama Dolomiti boasting six bluebird days out of seven. This is due to their location in the Southern Alps, ensuring that you can enjoy that slice of pizza on the sun deck! Expect stunning scenery and tall mountain peaks that combine with snow sure skiing at high altitude and on glaciers that ensure a long season.
With resorts bordering France, Switzerland and Austria you can find cultural influences from around Europe in Italy. An example of this is seen in Courmayeur, where it’s location and proximity to Chamonix in France, is reflected in the village architecture.
A ski or snowboard trip to Italy offers plenty of options, with resorts in the Alps, Dolomites, Aosta Valley and many more. You can even take a trip to Sicily to make turns on active volcano Mt Etna.
Visit Italy for the skiing and the beautiful scenery but return for the food and the people. In Italy you will be meet welcoming locals who are proud of their mountains and offer great hospitality.
The terrain in the Dolomites mainly suits intermediate skiers and snowboarders with the Ski Rama Dolomiti having an array of quality red and blue graded runs. Courmayeur in the Aosta Valley can offer more challenge and its location close to Chamonix offers the opportunity for a multi country trip.
TRAVELLING TO ITALIAN SKI RESORTS
Access to the Italian resorts is easy with plenty of airports well placed to connect into the mountains. Consider Turin, Milan, Bergamo, Venice or Trevisio. Regular transfers are run out of all airports to the major resorts across Italy. Self-drive is my favourite option however beware Italian drivers who can be inpatient on the mountain roads.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many ski resorts are there in Italy?
There are 291 listed ski resorts in Italy divided amongst the Italian Alps and Italian Dolomites regions. Some of the most well known resorts in Italy are; Courmayeur in the Aosta Valley, Cervinia which allows access to glacier skiing in winter and summer, and Madonna Di Campiglio with beautiful scenery and incredible trails.
What is the highest ski resort in Italy?
If you are looking for guaranteed snow throughout the ski season you tend to head towards the highest resorts. The higher a resort is the longer it tends to keep its snow in a good standard. With some glacier skiing available, some high ski resorts can maintain snow throughout the summer so it is possible to ski year round. In Italy the resort that has the highest possible skiing is the combined area of Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche, although this is somewhat cheating. This ski area incorporates the Swiss resort of Zermatt and allows for skiing 365 days per year on the Matterhorn Glacier.
How much does it cost to ski in Italy?
Skiing in Italy can be more affordable than skiing in other European countries. You only need to look at some of the combined resort areas where skiing is possible across countries to illustrate this point. I have already mentioned the resort of Cervinia above that is linked on the same lift pass as Zermatt in Switzerland, well buying the same lift pass that covers both resorts is cheaper to purchase in Italy than at the Swiss resort, for the same product!! Additionally, you should find the general day to day costs of a ski trip to Italy more reasonable than at ski resorts in France or Switzerland. Consider spending €7 for a small plate of fries in France, vs spending a similar amount for a large pizza in Italy.
WHY SKI OR SNOWBOARD IN ITALY
There are a number of really good reasons to plan a ski or snowboard trip to Italy.
Similar to it’s neighbours in; France, Switzerland and Austria, Italy has some incredibly scenic mountains. The Dolomites are stunning and provide the perfect back drop for your day on the snow.
The proximity of some Italian ski resorts to the borders of France and Switzerland mean that it is possible to ski across two countries in the same day.
Skiing in Italy represents incredible value for money especially when compared to those mountains across the border in France. You will be able to save on nearly every aspect of your holiday with accommodation and food noticeably more affordable in Italy.
Great facilities and world class ski resorts. Whether it is the lift infrastructure or the snow-making Italian ski resorts tend to have facilities that are on par with major European resorts.
ITALIAN SKI RESORT SNOW RECORD
Italy tends to be a reliable option when it comes to snow sure ski holidays. There are plenty of options to ski above 2000m which is a good guide for retaining snow. Cervinia has access to the glacier at Zermatt and Passo Tonale has access to the Presena Glacier.
MULTI RESORT PASSES
The Skirama Dolomiti is included for 7 days of skiing on the Epic pass. A lift pass to the Skirama Dolomiti covers 8 resorts, 380km of pistes and 150 ski lifts! Skirama Dolomiti is home to some great resorts like; Madonna di Campiglio, Pejo and Ponte di Legno.
DOLOMITI SUPERSKI
Similarly Dolomiti Superski is included on the IKON pass with similar restrictions. A lift pass for the Dolomiti Superski area covers the 12 Resorts and 1200km of pistes. Look out for Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val Gardena and Alta Badia as resorts to check out.
AOSTA VALLEY
The Aosta Valley has a beautiful setting amongst some of the finest mountains in Europe. Mont Blanc and The Matterhorn are both visible from the ski resorts of Vallee d’Aosta. With international skiing possible between Italy and France in La Thuile, and Italy and Switzerland in Cervinia, Aosta has a lot to offer. The Aosta Valley also includes the resort of Courmayeur which has some great off-piste and is known across the world.
VIA LATTEA
The Via Lattea pass includes 7 resorts split between Italy and France. The area close to Turin played host to the Winter Olympics in 2006. Sauze d’Oulx and Sestriere are probably the best know resorts on this pass.
THE ITALIAN SKI SEASON
It is possible to have lift assisted skiing 365 days a year in Italy but the main season runs alongside other European resorts. The peak periods are as you would expect in the school holidays so if you can visit outside of these times you will save money and have a better experience. You can normally be lucky towards the end of Jan start of Feb if you are wanting uncontested powder turns.
RESORT REVIEWS
Courmayeur
Pila
Skirama Dolomiti
ITALY GALLERY
ITALY VIDEOS
SIMILAR POSTS
FEATURED POSTS
Courmayeur Ski Resort Guide
Courmayeur is one of the premier ski resorts in Italy’s Aosta Valley. Skiing in the shadow of Mont Blanc will appeal to many with views of this historic peak available from many aspects of the resort. Courmayeur is a incredibly scenic ski resort that has an appeal for both the advanced and family skiers.
Advanced skiers and snowboarders will enjoy the big mountain feel and off-piste terrain. When you also consider Courmayeur’s proximity to Chamonix across the border then there are options for skiing some classic off-piste routes.
Families will appreciate the lay out of the resort with good lift access direct from the town of Courmayeur ensuring accommodation and amenities are easily accessible from the slopes.
COURMAYEUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Arriving in Courmayeurs for my first foray into Italian ski resorts I was quickly impressed by the character of the car-free village. Surrounded by epic mountain scenery, Courmayeurs location in the valley is stunning. There are plenty of upmarket shops that were well out of my price range, but the restaurants and après ski was reasonable. I stayed across the river in Dolonne which was quiet with it’s cobbled streets and traditional housing.
COURMAYEUR SKI AREA
Courmayeurs pisted ski area is quite modest with 50km of pistes but this doesn’t do the ski area justice. Part of the Aosta Valley ski area with a combined 350km of pistes, Courmayeur is perhaps best known for it’s off-piste terrain. The ski area at Courmayeur has 1500m of vertical drop from the Arp down to Dolonne which means the top to bottom run from Youla to Dolonne is a leg burner.
The majority of the Courmayeur ski area is above 1700m with only a small beginners area down at Dolonne. With the majority of the ski area being above 1700m the snow conditions across the resort are reliable. The ski area of Courmayeur is accessible directly from the village via cable car.
COURMAYEUR SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN COURMAYEUR
Courmayeur is not the most suitable resort to learn to ski or snowboard as the majority of its terrain is geared towards advanced skiers. There are however dedicated learners area which can be used to for learning to ski and snowboard. The beginners areas have magic carpets to transport learners to the top of the the beginners runs. The progression at Courmayeur is limited for beginners with no green runs to speak of you will be moving from the bunny hill onto blue terrain.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN COURMAYEUR
Intermediates skiers will be well suited to a Courmayeur ski trip. The majority of the pistes in Courmayeur are red graded including the run back down to Dolonne. To avoid overly repeating runs, plan day trips to nearby Aosta Valley resorts.
ADVANCED TERRAIN COURMAYEUR
In terms of on piste options there are not many advanced trails. The groomed terrain is excellent and lends itself well to carving especially if you can get some early tracks.
The real appeal to advanced snowboarders at Courmayeur is the off-piste with the backcountry off the Arp and Punta Helbronner being the cream of the crop. This really is an area for those with experience and knowledge so ski within your limits or hire a guide. Being in Italy also opens up the option for heli-skiing which in the area surrounding Courmayeur offers endless opportunity.
COURMAYEUR FREESTYLE TERRAIN
Courmayeur has one park with nothing major to speak of. The terrain park at Courmayeur has kickers and rails that are perfect for your first forays into freestyle. It is likely that freestyle will not be your motivation for visiting Courmayeur ski resort but it is a nice addition to what is available off-piste.
LIFTS AT COURMAYEUR
Courmayeur has a great connection of lifts, gondolas and surface installations although some could do with updating. In total Courmayeur has 18 lifts to transport skiers around the mountain.
The resort is linked well to the town below with a cable car that rises 500m to the resort at 1704m. Whether you take the Courmayeur cable car or the parallel Dolonne Gondola you will end up at Plan Checrouit.
From here it is possible to take a series of gondolas to the top of the resort at Cresta D’Arp 2755m. The Arb cable car is old but once at the top you have some incredible perspectives of the mountains around you. It is from the Cresta D’Arp that you will access the best of the off-piste terrain at Courmayeur ski resort. There is a third entry point to the ski resort using the Val Very cable car from Entreves.
COURMAYEUR SNOW RECORD
Courmayeur is known for its off-piste skiing so you would assume it would receive plentiful snow. On average Courmayeur receives around 3-4m of snow per winter. This on on par with European freeride Mecca Verbier but falls way below the resorts of Japan or West Coast USA. The cold climate and altitude at Courmayeurs highest installations ensures that the snow quality remains good throughout the season.
COURMAYEUR PISTE MAP
COURMAYEUR SEASON DATES
The Courmayeur ski season opens towards the end of Novemeber/first week of December with the season running into late April.
COURMAYEUR LIFT TICKETS
To ski in Courmayeur you have a number of interesting lift ticket options depending on your needs.
If you want to cover the most terrain and explore a few different resorts the then Aosta Valley pass may serve your needs the best. The Aosta Valley (Valle d’Aosta) pass includes skiing in; Courmayeur Monte Bianco, Gran Paradiso, La Thuile - La Rosiere, Breuil - Cervinia (including Zermatt), Pila, Monterosa, and more. Plenty to keep yourself occupied whether for a week or a season.
You can also either choose a solitary Courmayeur pass or the Courmayeur Monte Bianco combined ski area.
Another interesting alternative to skiing in resort is Heliski Courmayeur who offer the opportunity to have an incredible off-piste experience within reach of the highest peak in the Alps, Mont Blanc. To learn more about their packages you can check their website here.
TRAVEL TO COURMAYEUR
WHERE IS COURMAYEUR?
Courmayeur in the Aosta Valley is close to the borders of France and Switzerland. Surrounded by some of the most impressive mountain peaks in Europe Courmayeur is within a short drive of Chamonix and Mont Blanc. Turin is a popular access point for Courmayeur with an International airport.
DRIVING TO COURMAYEUR
Driving to Courmayeur is possible from France, Switzerland and of course other Italian cities. If you are driving to Courmayeur from France be prepared to pay for regular tolls and for access to the Mont Blanc Tunnel. Within Italy Turin and Milan will be the best access points.
FLIGHTS TO COURMAYEUR
If you are heading to Courmayeur by air then the airports of Milan, Turin and Geneva are your most likely entry points. All have regular flights from Europe but flights to Geneva tend to be cheaper than those to Milan and Turin. You may find that if hiring a car when you land this cost may be cheaper at the Italian airports so you will need to consider this. Geneva is the closest airport to Courmayeur but will mean crossing the border from Switzerland.
COURMAYEUR PROS
Courmayeur has incredible off-piste terrain
The scenery surrounding Courmayeur will rival most ski resorts
Courmayeur is included in the Aosta Valley pass so there are options to ski multiple resorts on the same lift ticket.
Transfers to the resort in under two hours with multiple options for flight destination.
Courmayeur makes skiing on Mont Blanc possible.
Ski in two countries on the same trip with day trips to La Thuile or La Rosiere
COURMAYEUR CONS
Courmayeur is not suited to a beginners ski holiday with little terrain for learners.
50km of terrain is ok but not huge in comparison to some other ski areas.
COURMAYEUR GALLERY
COURMAYEUR ACTIVITIES
Courmayeur is a up market town, some might say posh, with a number of expensive boutiques. Shopping in Courmayeur is popular with visitors and may be a draw for some. Similarly if you are in the mood for relaxation then heading to a Courmayeur spa could be the perfect down day activity. The Pré Saint Didier Spa near Courmayeur has an outside pool with views of Mont Blanc!
Cross country skiing is possible in Courmayeur where Val Ferret has 20km of nordic trails.
COURMAYEUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS COURMAYEUR GOOD FOR BEGINNERS
Despite having a dedicated beginners area Courmayeur is not a great resort to learn to ski at. There is very little terrain for progression so able beginners may get bored lapping the same terrain.
IS COURMAYEUR GOOD FOR SKIING?
Courmayeur has. great reputation for skiing around the world. Primarily suited to intermediates and advanced skiers and snowboarders with an interest in off-piste.
WHAT IS THE LONGEST RUN AT COURMAYEUR?
It is possible to ski from top to bottom of the resort in Courmayeur with a combination of runs that have 1500m of vertical drop!
WHAT IS COURMAYEUR FAMOUS FOR?
Courmayeur is famous for the incredible off-piste terrain and its location close to Mont Blanc in the Aosta Valley.
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Skirama Dolomiti Ski Area
In the North East of Italy you will find the Italian Dolomites, a mountain range with 21 peaks higher than 3000m. The location of the Dolomites ensures that they receive their fair share of bluebird days during winter with clear skies and sun shining the majority of the time. This makes a trip to Skirama Dolomiti particularly appealing as you will be met with beautiful weather and incredible landscapes.
Photo @Predelli
SKI RAMA DOLOMITI SKI AREA
Skirama Dolomiti is a collection of eight ski resorts all accessible via one ski pass. The pass includes the resorts of; Madonna di Campiglio, Pinzolo, Folgarida Marilleva, where you can ski via interconnected chairlifts. The pass also includes the resorts; Pejo, Ponte di Legno/Tonale, Paganella Ski, Monte Bondone and Alps Cimbra-Folgaria and Lavarone. You receive one weeks complimentary access to Skirama Dolomiti with an Epic Pass. The combined ski area includes 380kms of pistes accessible via 150 ski lifts.
SKIRAMA DOLOMITI SEASON DATES
With the Presena Glacier the ski season runs between November - May in the Ski Rama Dolomiti. Most of the resorts however will open in December and close Mid April.
FOLGARIDA MARILLEVA
Folgarida and Marilleva ski areas are combined to make a pretty sizeable ski area. With 60 km of pistes accessible via 25 chairlifts, with further links to neighbouring Madonna di Campiglio and Pinzolo increasing the area to 150 km. Folgarida Marilleva makes a great base for a ski or snowboard trip, especially as an intermediate with nearly 50% of the runs graded as red or blue. Beginners will also love Folgarida Marilleva with designated learning zones in both resorts. The remaining 13% of runs are steep black pistes that offer a challenge to even the most dedicated skiers and snowboarders
Photo @ Grzegorz Janysek
There is a small terrain park in Marilleva which at the time of my visit had two boxes and two kickers. This is a great start for beginners but would fail to maintain the interest of most. If you enjoy riding in the terrain park, instead you should take the interconnected chairlifts and head to Madonna di Campiglio where you will find a more complete snowpark.
Staying in Marilleva is a great option for those who would like direct access to the slopes with ski in ski out apartments available at Marilleva 1400. From the outside the on snow accommodation looks… well quite ugly but the location can not be argued with. Alternatively choose to stay in one of the local villages. I opted for this apartment in Castello, a short drive from Marilleva gondola with awesome views across the valley and quaint traditional housing.
@simonjburgess_
The great location and the skiable access to 150km of pistes can mean Marilleva is busy first thing. Luckily throughout the morning the crowds disperse around the different resorts meaning that lift queues are not too bad. There are still areas that bottleneck and it is worth considering when and where you stop for lunch to contrast with the main crowds.
MONTE BONDONE
Monte Bondone is a family focused ski resort that is known for its wide pistes and purpose built village. With hotels, childcare and restaurants/bars all accessible from the pistes a trip to Monte Bondone is hassle free. Monte Bondone offers night skiing between 8pm and 10:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays with access to its slopes and terrain park.
During daily operations Monte Bondone offers 21 pistes with 100% snow making capability so you can be sure of great on-piste conditions. The 20km of slopes should be enough to keep the family entertained for a weeks holiday. Make sure to check out the Gran Pista Rocce Rosse which is a 4km piste with a 800m vertical drop offering spectacular views of the Brenta Dolomites.
Monte Bondone has recently begun to focus on freestyle and offers events and competitions throughout the season in its terrain park. With the addition of a beginners funpark; with entry level features and a boarder cross track, there is lots of challenge to be found.
PEJO
Pejo is special. This historic resort has a beautiful setting in the midst of the Stelvio National Park. Operating for over 70 years Pejo is keen not to be left behind and has modern lifts including the new Pejo 3000 cable car that takes you to the resorts peak. A small resort within a short drive of Marilleva and Madonna di Campiglio, it is remarkable that Pejo isn’t affected by crowds. It’s 20km of pristine pistes were empty on my visit. The addition of the Pejo 3000 cable car allows for 1600m of vertical drop ensuring great quality of snow conditions. The cable car allows for up to 100 skiers and snowboarders to make the ascent within minutes, assuring you are not waiting for long in lines.
Although the highlight of a trip to Pejo has to be the 8 km piste from Valle della Mite down to Peio Fonti, this is not all Pejo has to offer. Pejo also has a pretty decent terrain park with small and medium size features. There is essentially two lines through the terrain park, a jib and a jump line, although it is possible to cut across both. Alongside the main park there is a fun run for kids (and adults), where you can play the piano as you ski across a flat box feature. Pejo is also a good base for beginners and has a good beginners area at the base accessible by its own chairlift.
If nearby Marilleva is fully geared up for mass tourism, Pejo is a throwback to traditional Italian mountain heritage. Away from the crowds you will still find all the amenities you could want. With accommodation, restaurants and a spa centre, Pejo will make a more calm base for a trip to Skirama Dolomiti.
PEJO TIP - IF YOU SHARE THE PEJO 3000 CABLE CAR WITH MANY SKIERS, JUST WAIT FOR TWO-THREE MINUTES AT THE TOP OF THE LIFT. YOU WILL QUICKLY SEE THE SKIERS AND SNOWBOARDERS DISPERSE LEAVING YOU WITH 8KM OF EMPTY PISTES.
PAGANELLA
Paganella ski resort is one of the more popular ski resorts in the Trentino region due to its location and proximity to Trento. With slopes up to 2100m, Paganella can be seen from the city and is frequented by locals. One of the draws to Paganella is its accessibility with modern lifts from both the villages of Andalo and Fai. Because of its popularity with locals and my visit occurring during school holidays, I decided not to visit Paganella due to crowds. I would love to hear your opinions if you have visited this resort as the views of Marmolada and Lake Garda are meant to be incredible.
PONTE DI LEGNO - TONALE
The resorts; Passo Tonale, Ponte di Legno and Presena glacier all combine to form the Ponte di Legno - Tonale ski area. With skiing and snowboarding possible from November into May this region offers one of the longer ski seasons in Europe. Within easy reach of Lombardy region cities Milan and Bergamo, getting to Ponte di Legno - Tonale is easy for Italians and foreign skiers alike. Ponte di Legno - Tonale is known for its high altitude skiing and its snow sure pistes.
Passo Tonale ski area is a fantastic base for a ski holiday. With access to Ponte di Legno and Presena Glacier there is plenty of terrain that can be explored, with the area of Passo Tonale offering fast lifts, a slope side village and plenty of amenities. The skiing and snowboarding in Passo Tonale is spread out along one face and can be quite clunky to get from one side to the other with traverses necessary. The runs are great and the pistes are well maintained. The highlight for me was the Adamello Snow Park, which offered an initial jump line, followed by a choice of another smaller jump line or small and medium rails and boxes. The terrain park was fairly empty with local skiers seemingly preferring to carve their way around the pistes. The lifts in Tonale can become quite busy, so this is worth considering but you can always head to Presena Glacier or Ponte di Legno for shorter lift lines.
Ponte di Legno can be reached from Tonale via a cable car. The cable car actually descends down to 1200m but it is possible to ski to 2000m in Tonale. In Ponte di Legno you will have the option to explore the Corno d’ Aola and Santa Guilia offering red and black grade runs back to the village. Ponte di Legno has numerous nearby villages so accommodation options are plentiful. The formation of the mountains in this region allow for wide steep slopes that offer endless challenge for free ride focussed skiers and snowboarders.
A visit to this ski area would be incomplete without heading to Presena Glacier. Taking the gondola from Tonale you head up to 3000m where you will find impeccable snow conditions. The Presena Glacier is a freeride dream with plenty of hiking and touring opportunities. There is the possibility to ski a 12km run from Presena Glacier down to neighbouring resort Ponte di Legno. On your winter visit to the Presena Glacier you will also find an Iglu around mid mountain that hosts concerts throughout the season. The area around the Presena Glacier is scattered with reminders of its history and its role as a battlefield during war time.
PINZOLO
Pinzolo has been focussing on developing itself as a family ski area. Recent improvements to the beginners area and children’s entertainment make it a solid choice for a family ski holiday. If you are not travelling with a family don’t let that put you off. Pinzolo also offers challenge and access to some of the best slopes in the Skirama Dolomiti region. In the shadow of the Doss del Sabion, a 2100m peak, the village of Pinzolo allows access to an incredibly sunny ski area that offers fantastic views across the valley. The network of lifts connect with neighbouring Madonna di Campiglio, via the Express Cable Car, making it possible to ski between Pinzolo and Folgarida using only ski lifts. Staying in Pinzolo and looking for a challenge, then consider testing your legs on the Pista Dolomitica which starts at 2100m and 6km later has you at 800m.
ALPE CIMBRA-FOLGARIA AND LAVARONE
Folgaria - Fiorentini and Lavarone resorts combine to make the Alpe Cimbra Ski Area with over 100km of pistes. The ski area has an array of renowned advanced runs including; Agonistica and Avéz del Prinzep. As with the other ski areas in the Skirama Dolomiti the infrastructure at Alpe Cimbra is great with modern and fast lifts. The highest point of the Alpe Cimbra allows skiing and snowboarding at 1850m allowing for good conditions with lower slopes covered by snowmaking for later in the season. In terms of freestyle there are two main terrain parks, Mazinga Snow Park and Prinze Snow Park in Folgaria and Lavarone respectively, additionally you will find a boarder cross track. If you are looking for a family ski holiday with a range of activities Alpe Cimbra-Folgaria and Lavarone could be it. Activities ranging from; sledding, fat biking, dog sledding, ice-skating and ice karting are all available.
MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO
Madonna di Campiglio is the epicentre of the combined ski area that stretches from Folgarida to Pinzolo. Being the central point for access to 150km of pistes Madonna di Campiglio ski resort can be a bit pricier than its neighbours and at times pretty busy. The modern lift infrastructure around the resort, ensures that queues move quickly even if there are some areas that bottlenecks occur.
Host to annual World Cup events, there is a certain prestige associated with the slopes in Madonna. Madonna Di Campiglio is a resort that offers thrill on its steep pistes and challenge to be found on slopes where the best in the world come to compete. Additionally, Madonna is home to one of the best terrain parks in Europe, the Ursus Snow Park. Unfortunately, on my visit the park was still being built, but when its in full-flow you will find everything from ride on boxes to huge jumps. One of my favourite things about Madonna di Campiglio were the pistes. Madonna has a big apres scene, which can mean that guests to the area may be a bit slower to start their day. Getting across to Madonna di Campiglio early in the morning often meant perfectly groomed pistes and fewer crowds. Although this did change as the day progressed.
SKIRAMA PROS
Ski for free with an Epic Pass. This was a major reason in me choosing to visit Skirama Dolomiti and it is worth it for them as I really fell in love with the place so they will see my buisness again.
8 different resorts or combined areas accessible on the same lift pass! Think about that. On a weeks trip you could ski a new area every day and still not visit them all!
Skirama Dolomiti has a range of ski areas which each resort offering something different. Head to Madonna di Campiglio for steeps or Head to Pejo to avoid the crowds.
Long season with on snow activities possible between the months of November and May.
Cheap transfers available from Milan to the Skirama Dolomiti with plenty of airlines and flight options.
Plenty of accommodation options to suit all budget choice. Go big or go budget, you will still have a great time.
Most of the infrastructure is modern and the lifts are fast.
SKIRAMA CONS
Due to crowds at peak times, there can be long lift lines.
Not all resorts close together. You may prefer to have a car to increase your on snow options.
Buses between resorts are not always frequent and the timetable wasn’t that easy to follow.
SKIRAMA DOLOMITI TRANSPORT
If you are aiming to travel between; Folgarida - Marilleva, Madonna di Campiglio and Pinzolo you can do this via interconnected chairlifts. To reach any of the other resorts you can opt to use the bus services that run between the resorts or self-drive. I self-drove whilst in Skirama Dolomiti, I felt this gave a lot more freedom.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Before purchasing my Epic Pass for the 2019/20 season I had not heard of the Skirama Dolomiti ski area. I had enjoyed my previous snowboard trip to Italy so I decided to make this part of my Epic Pass Journey. The Skirama Dolomiti has quickly become one of my favourite places to snowboard in Europe. There is an expanse of terrain and with each resort offering something a little bit different I would highly recommend a trip to the area. The combination of quality skiing and affordability make this a great destination for any ski or snowboard trip.
DISCOVER SKI RAMA
https://www.skirama.it/en
China Snowboard Guide
Winter sports are going through a major boom period in China. Host of the 2022 Winter Olympics, skiing and snowboarding is well within the national focus. China is developing new and redeveloping old ski resorts to improve the facilities on offer to over 1 million national skiers as well as international tourists. With companies like Club Med getting in on the act you can be sure to find a great experience.
Slopeside Chalet’s at Tiger Ridge Terrain Park
China has a rapidly growing ski industry with resorts opening on a regular basis. You will find a cluster of resorts close to the capital Beijing, making it possible to add on a trip to the Great Wall and the Forbidden Palace. However, be aware that the resorts near the capital rely heavily on snowmaking facilities. The North of China is generally blanketed in snow throughout the winter with some great conditions found in the North-East towards Harbin.
China wants to market itself as a top ski destination and is achieving this through investment in quality facilities. Club Med has opened a resort at Yabuli Ski Resort to bring a sense of luxury to your Chinese ski holiday. China is also importing expertise to help them deliver a great product with the majority of management at Tiger Ridge Terrain Park being international.
Tiger Ridge Terrain park is a great example of what China achieves with its ski resorts. Not blessed with the large European style mountains and extreme terrain the management of Chinese ski resorts are investing in terrain parks to keep people interested. Tiger Ridge would be little more than a small resort offering three blue and one red graded run but instead, it is a freestyle paradise with four park lines of differing abilities.
Don’t expect expansive terrain on your ski trip to China with the largest resorts having around 40km of slopes mostly suited to beginner or intermediate skiers. What you will find is off-slope activities like tobogganing, snowmobile tours and snowshoe excursions.
The popularity of skiing and snowboarding has been supplemented with the construction of indoor snowdomes allowing those in the city to get their snow fix. Harbin is home to the worlds largest indoor snow dome, although plans are in place for an even bigger facility to be opened in Shanghai.
There are well over 100 ski resorts in China which offers you plenty of choice. The most popular Chinese ski resorts include; Xiling Ski Resort, Yabuli Ski Resort, Wanlong Ski Resort, Beijing Nanshan Ski Resort, Beijing Huaibei Ski Resort and Alshan Ski Resort.
WHERE TO SKI OR SNOWBOARD IN CHINA
When it comes to where to ski and snowboard in China there is plenty of choice with over 100 ski resorts. Ski resorts in China are generally located in four locations; Beijing, Chengdu, Harbin or remote Northern areas.
BEIJING
Beijing will host the 2022 winter Olympics and has a number of facilities within a 1-4 hours drive of the city. Wanlong and Nanshan are the most popular resorts to visit close to the Chinese capital. Beijing Nanshan Ski Resort is the largest of the resorts closest to Beijing however if you want to ski in the shadow of the Great Wall of China consider Beijing Huaibei Ski Resort. Nanshan ski resort is perhaps best known for its terrain park which is one of the best in China.
CHONGLI
Chongli is around 250km North of the capital and will host the majority of the snowsports events at Beijing 2022. Chongli is home to seven linked resorts that offer some of the best facilities for snowboarding in China.
Thaiwoo ski resort has a purpose-built alpine village and is considered to be the most complete Chinese ski resort. With over 200 planned pistes and freestyle facilities that will host Olympic Slopestyle events, Thaiwoo is certainly one to watch.
Wanlong Ski Resort is one for the experts with very few beginner focussed ski runs. Another Beijing Winter Olympic Games venue, Wanlong is renowned for its snow quality.
Genting Ski Resort is another expanding ski resort near Beijing. There are 88 planned ski pistes that will cover 70km at Genting Ski Resort. Genting will be a good choice for advanced and intermediate skiers with very few dedicated beginner pistes. As with most Chinese ski resorts, Genting has a good terrain park set up with dedicated freestyle areas popular in China.
HARBIN
Harbin is world-famous for its Ice and Snow Festival, with an impressive display of sculptures in December and January. If the Ice and Snow Festival attracts you to Harbin then you may want to check out some of the ski resorts whilst you are in the area.
Wanda Ski Dome in Harbin is one of the worlds largest indoor ski resorts. The 80,000 square metres indoor ski centre offers multiple slopes, an indoor chairlift and plenty of off-slope activities. Opportunity to ski in China during the summertime? Yes, please.
Yabuli could be the Chinese ski destination for you if you like a little luxury. Home to Club Med, Yabuli resort at Heilongjang’s Sun Mountain, is a destination holiday offering ski in ski out ease. Sun Mountain has 35km of pistes for mixed abilities and 11 lifts. You will need to take a 2+ hour transfer from Harbin to reach Yabuli but your effort will be rewarded with a stay at an incredibly popular Chinese ski resort.
JILIN
Jilin Province is home to Beidahu ski area which has 11 pistes and 850m of vertical drop. The terrain at Beidahu is aimed at intermediate to advanced skiers, so is not recommended for learning to ski or snowboard.
Also in Jilin Province, you will find Changbaishan International Ski Centre and Tiger Ridge Terrain Park. Changbaishan International ski centre is one of the largest ski areas in China with 43 pistes for mixed abilities. Changbaishan is easy to reach as it has an International airport with connecting flights into major Chinese cities.
Also accessible from Changbaishan International airport is Tiger Ridge Terrain Park. Tiger Ridge Terrain Park is small but works with the terrain it has to offer some awesome freestyle terrain. Each of the runs at Tiger Ridge has its own line of freestyle features ranging from small ride-on boxes in the learner’s area to huge kickers. Tiger Ridge is a longer transfer from Changbaishan International Airport but is certainly worth the effort.
CHINA SNOWBOARD GALLERY
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN SNOWBOARDING IN CHINA
It is hard to categorise Chinese skiing as the country differs greatly depending on where you visit. Everything from the food, the climate and the accessibility will vary depending on where you choose to take your Chinese ski holiday.
In general, you can expect Chinese ski resorts to feel cold. Low temperatures and at times harsh winds can mean that with windchill you are going to wish you were huddled up by the fire. In Changbaishan, where the resorts are close to the border with North Korea, you can expect temperatures to be below -20 throughout the season. The climate in China lends itself perfectly to snowmaking which is important for topping up on the rare snowstorms.
You are not going to find large scale ski resorts that are similar in size to European or North American mountains. Chinese ski resorts, tend to offer small amounts of terrain with a low vertical drop.
SNOW CONDITIONS IN CHINA
China has a huge landmass and with ski resorts across the country, it is tough to be generic about the snow conditions at Chinese ski resorts. The colder temperatures and more frequent snowfall are in the North of the country. Alshan ski area is renowned for the quality of its powder snow. Realistically, unless you are very lucky, a visit to China is going to mean snowboarding on hardpack snow in cold conditions.
Most Chinese resorts rely heavily on snowmaking to supplement their natural snowfall throughout the season.
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CHINESE SKI SEASON DATES
The ski season in China runs parallel to Europes season with the best conditions found between December and April. China can have bitterly cold temperatures during winter which are ideal for snow-making to supplement the natural snowfall.
APRÈS SKI CHINA
China is certainly more conservative on the Après ski front than we are used to in Europe. If you are expecting bars and dancing the night away you will probably be disappointed.
CHINA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DOES CHINA HAVE SKI RESORTS?
China has over 700 ski resorts but the reality is that many of these lack facilities to make it a ski holiday destination. There are a number of quality ski resorts with exceptional facilities though that would make for a great Chinese ski holiday.
HOW MANY SKIERS ARE IN CHINA?
Skiing and snowboarding in China is growing rapidly especially since the announcement that Beijing would host the 2022 Winter Olympic Games. Apprarently there were 13.2 million skiers in China during 2020 although the majority of these would be classed as beginners.
Get In Touch
As always thanks for reading this post and I’d love to hear from you! Would you head to China to ski or snowboard? Have you already been? Do you have any questions that remain unanswered after reading this post. Get in touch in the comment section and I’ll try to answer them.
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Troutbeck Tongue | Wainwrights Far Eastern Fells
It would be fairly easy for Troutbeck Tongue to go unnoticed. Set in the Troutbeck valley surrounded by larger fells part of the appeal of Troutbeck Tongue is its anonymity. One of many Tongues in Lakeland, Troutbeck Tongue is a wedge of sharply rising ground shouldered by a beck that runs along its base. Raising from the valley floor at Dalehead, Troutbeck Tongue is modest in size but with views back towards Windermere and the lakes it should not be overlooked. Whether gazing at Troutbeck Tongue from the nearby Kirkstone Pass or undertaking the mellow walk, Troutbeck Tongue is sure not to disappoint. Accessible from the village of Troutbeck or via longer walks from nearby Ambleside or Windermere there are plenty of options for Troutbeck Tongue walks.
TROUTBECK TONGUE INFORMATION
HEIGHT IN METRES 364m
HEIGHT IN FEET 1194ft
RANGE Far Eastern Fells
GRID REFERENCE NY 422064
TROUTBECK TONGUE MAP AND ROUTE
Follow my Troutbeck Tongue route here using OS Maps.
My route starts on the road next to Jesus Church where roadside parking is available. From here, you head through the nearby holiday village until you reach the footpath that heads through the valley until you reach a stream crossing near the base of Troutbeck Tongue. From here, it is a short sharp walk up Troutbeck Tongue until you reach the summit. From the summit you can choose to walk over the fell and down the otherside, however I opted to head back down the same way. I then opted for another path back to the car, you can follow my route here.
TROUTBECK TONGUE GALLERY
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TROUTBECK TONGUE RELATED POSTS
Resort Review: Raw riding in Fernie, BC
Picking the transfer bus from Calgary and driving through The Great Plains eagerly awaiting to see the first mini peaks and the start of ‘the rockies’. I’m thinking I can’t wait to get to bed and get going in a resort I have shared a few happy weeks in previous years. Back, with more snowboarding experience under my belt I couldn’t wait to come back and tackle the ‘raw’ terrain that Fernie had to offer…
Glades for day! Fernie is a powder-lovers dream
Located on the ‘powder highway’ and known for it’s excessive snowfall or the ‘Fernie Factor’, it’s a place that is on the list of many powder hounds. The snow is dry, or classic ‘interior BC’ powder and the terrain is rough and ready. Small town charm, friendly locals, what’s not to like?
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Fernie is a classic rocky mountains working town, separate to the ski hill. If you are staying in Downtown Fernie, expect to get a shuttle or better known as the “FernieStoke Shuttle” to the hill. Limited accommodation is located at the hill. Upon arrival at the base (at 600m), you’ll notice Fernie Alpine Resort is towered over by a gigantic headwall - very prone to avalanches with ski patrol constantly doing analysis and bombing to keep it safe, but aesthetically adding to the drama and impressiveness of the terrain. Under the headwall is five skiable bowls and lift access to Polar Peak (at 2100m) Best place to start is Lizard Bowl. Some great mix of groomed and easy going glades.
The Downtown Fernie Charm with an impressive backdrop
FERNIE SKI AREA
With the five skiable bowls there’s plenty of variety. You’ll find that the majority of technical and steep runs occur on the Polar Peak - true alpine conditions, no trees and considerable exposure, it can sometimes be closed. However, get the chance to go up there on a clear day and you will not be disappointed. Options to take the blue that winds down the face to the left which intersects with a few blacks, or off to the right of the Polar Peak you’ll have the challange of a few double blacks.
The grading here leans towards difficult and with a bit of wind can make the runs hard packed and icy. But right conditions will be mind-blowing with good turn after good turn. This is where you get the vert!
For the more adventurous type the resort has some great inbounds hikes leading to some great glades and tree runs, try Snake Ridge in Cedar bowl (far right on a trail map) which will be a 10 minute easy bootpack. Can be steep in places and sometimes go into a compression at the bottom (I’m a fallen victim of this compression) Whatever route you take down you’ll be picked up by a cat track leading to the Haul Back T-Bar.
Fernie’s dramatic headwall from the base
Morning Glory is one tick off if you are first to it on a dump day. Bewarned it can get tracked out quickly. Alternatively on the rare occasion the headwall hike, Face Lift is open is definitely something to be experienced. It’s a 20-30 minute bootpack With avi conditions very volatile on the headwall, it’s seldomly open.
The glades of Fernie, choose tight trees or spaced out
Fernie has a terrain park made up of rails and boxes. No kickers here, however lets face it, we’re not in Fernie for the parks. There’s plenty of side hits and natural terrain to keep the practising freestyler happy too.
What I love about Fernie…
The raw, real Canadian feel, the amazing snowfall, terrain variety, buzzing town with great food spots and bars. I would even consider it uncrowded, even at weekends when the city dwellers of Calgary come down.
What I dislike about Fernie…
Hard to say really, if I’m being picky there is not much in terms of groomers to please the leisurely skier although everywhere is accessible by a groomed run. Check the grooming report at the base.
The Face Lift bootlick with Fernie in the Distance
FERNIE GALLERY
Travel to resort
Nearest international airport is Calgary and there are shuttle buses that run daily to Fernie and back. Cranbrook is a notable close town with a domestic airport.
Hidden Gems
A traverse left across the top Currie Bowl from the Whitepass Chair will bring you to Corner Pocket, a double black run involving an abseil down the other side into Lizard Bowl. Once down, you can take the run down or traverse out as much as you please to score the goods. The abseil and traverse puts a lot of people off and you can get many a good turn.
For really decent Japanese try Yamagoya Sushi. Soft Shell Crab with a cold Asahi is the one at the end of a great day.
Accommodation
I stayed at the Red Tree Lodge in Downtown. Really friendly staff and team and the bus stops right outside. 10 - 15 minute walk into the town and supermarket.
I would recommend this place for…
Powder lovers who want to ride different terrain every day.
White Pass into Timber Bowl, with an inversion
Thanks to Kate for sharing this post. If you want to learn more about Kate go give her a follow.
Sun Peaks Ski Resort Guide
Sun Peaks is the second largest ski resort in Canada, not that you would assume this from its lack of crowds and laid-back village. Formerly known as Tod Mountain, Sun Peaks continues to undergo development in and around the village with the lift infrastructure also having recent upgrades. Sun Peaks has firmly placed itself amongst the top Canadian ski resorts. The Sun Peaks trails are shared across three separate peaks with runs in total.
SUN PEAKS FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Arriving at Sun Peaks for a winter season I was pleasantly surprised by the Village feel. The purpose built village, at the base of the slopes, has everything you would need at a ski resort. This felt convenient and much less aggravation then having to continually travel up and down from the mountain. The ski area itself is pretty impressive with plenty to keep you interested. The only thing really lacking from Sun Peaks is any teeth clenching terrain that could excite the more advanced skiers and snowboarders.
SUN PEAKS SKI AREA
Sun Peaks ski area has a good mixture of terrain to suit all abilities. This is part of the reason why some see Sun Peaks BC as a perfect family ski area. Split across three mountains; Mt Tod, Mt Morrisey and, Sundance Mountain, each has its own characteristics.
MT TOD
Mt Tod marks the highest point in the resort, with the highest lift the West Bowl T-Bar at 2080m. Mt Tod is home to some of the gnarlier terrain at Sun Peaks with ♦♦ Green Door leading into some pretty awesome glades. You will also find the Gil’s backcountry area at Mt Tod. The Gil’s is a dedicated sidecountry zone which can be great fun in the right conditions. The only downside to the Gil’s area is the long cat track back out. It is not all black diamond runs on Mt Tod, with the longest green also available here, 5 mile. 5 Mile is popular as it allows learners to leave the beginners area and head up to the top of the mountain. Lower Mt Tod has some fantastic groomed blue terrain, perfect for laying into those carves.
SUNDANCE MOUNTAIN
Sundance Mountain is home to some of the best intermediate runs in the resort with perfect groomers like Sundance and Sundowner. This area of the resort comes into its own with some brilliant trees for intermediates. Lone Fir West and Lone Fir Centre offer widely spaced trees on a mellow pitch. Sundance Mountain is also home to the terrain parks at Sun Peaks. There are three main parks that run underneath the Sundance chair, with the features increasing in size towards the base area.
MT MORRISEY
Mt Morrissey is sometimes neglected by visitors to Sun Peaks which is exactly why you should go there. Morrisey sits on the other side of the valley and for this reason alone some visitors cant be bothered to walk across the car park to get to it. This means Morrisey is the place to go when you want some time to yourself away from the weekend visitors. On Mt Morrissey you can find some big bumps on ♦♦In Tatters and ♦♦Static Cling or stick to the groomers that run underneath the Morrisey Express Chairlift.
SUN PEAKS SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN SUN PEAKS
Sun Peaks has two dedicated ski school areas in addition to a nursery slope for the really young starters. The carpet outside the ski school base will be the first place to take your turns before moving to the Village Platter. If you are up and running but not looking for anything too challenging, then Homesteader leading into the bottom of 5 mile is a great place to start.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN SUN PEAKS
There is intermediate terrain everywhere at Sun Peaks so just pick a lift and go. If you are wanting to stay on the groomed runs then Sundance Express, Morrissey Express and Sunburst Express chairs will all take you to perfect wide blue terrain. If you want to try your hand at some ♦ single black diamond terrain then ♦Sting could be a good place to start.
ADVANCED TERRAIN SUN PEAKS
Bowls and trees will be the places to go to ensure you are making the most of the advanced terrain at Sun Peaks. ♦♦Green Door ♦Hattrick and ♦Crystal Bowl are all good places to start. If you can deal with the slowest lift on the mountain, Burfield, then you have to check out ♦♦Freddy’s.
SUN PEAKS FREESTYLE TERRAIN
The terrain parks at Sun Peaks are all found on Sundance Mountain and effectively run underneath the Sundance Express which has its positives and negatives. Positive, it means you can scope your line from the chair and get quick laps. Negative, everyone can see you from the chair which can be off-putting if you are not a narcissist. What was nice about the freestyle terrain at Sun Peaks, is that the Park Crew regularly changed it up with new features throughout the winter.
LIFTS AT SUN PEAKS
There are seven chairlifts, three button lifts and two carpets at Sun Peaks. Recently installed Orient chairlift is a Quad chair that accesses some mellow terrain near the village. Morrisey Express Quad, Sundance Express and Sunburst Express are all fast Quad chairs with the Sunburst Express having the added benefit of a bubble! Elevation and Crystal chairlifts are both slow but over short distances so they do the job. Whereas Burfield chair is an enigma. Some people love it because it deters people from riding the runs on that side of the mountain, keeping it quiet. Other (and probably rightly so) would say it should be replaced as its 23 minute journey time is ridiculous.
SUN PEAKS SNOW RECORD
Sun Peaks receives an average snowfall of around 6m per season. In comparison to other resorts in BC this isn’t impressive (Revelstoke 14m, Shames Mountain 12m). What is impressive though is the quality of the snow with Sun Peaks receiving dry BC powder.
SUN PEAKS PISTE MAP
SEASON DATES
Sun Peaks season dates tend to run between a late November start and and early to mid April close. The snow quality is good throughout the season with lots of smaller snow showers rather than huge dumps. The ski lifts at Sun Peaks tend to run from 9:00 until 15:30 although the Sundance lift opens at 08:30.
SUN PEAKS LIFT TICKETS
Sun Peaks season passes cost $1200 Canadian on the early bird deal which is not bad value for the amount of terrain on offer. A daily lift pass will cost around $95 for an adult pass with multi-day discounts available.
TRAVEL TO SUN PEAKS
WHERE IS SUN PEAKS?
Sun Peaks is close to the town of Kamloops in British Columbia. Kamloops has an airport that is a 45 minute drive from the ski resort of Sun Peaks. The closest major city is Vancouver which is situated South West of Sun Peaks.
DRIVING TO SUN PEAKS
The road between Kamloops and Sun Peaks is pretty mellow by mountain road standards. Driving between Kamloops and Sun Peaks will take around 45 minutes. If you would prefer to take a shuttle, I highly recommend Mostly Mental Shuttles who I used throughout my stay at Sun Peaks.
PARKING AT SUN PEAKS
Sun Peaks has parking at the base area and at the bottom of Burfield Chair. Parking at Sun Peaks is free but overnight stays in the car park are prohibited. If you have accommodation in the village, they will have dedicated overnight parking.
HOW TO GET TO SUN PEAKS
INTERNATIONAL
To fly into Sun Peaks from outside of Canada you will need to get a connecting flight. Kamloops Airport has regular connections with the larger international airports in Vancouver and Calgary. You can also fly via Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton or Toronto into Kelowna Airport. Transfers from Kelowna will cost more as it is a further two hours from Sun Peaks.
SUN PEAKS ACCOMMODATION
The Village at Sun Peaks has lots of great hotels and lodges. During my time in Sun Peaks I spent time staying at the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel, a four star hotel on the foot of the slopes. There are many accommodation options for different budgets at Sun Peaks including the Sun Peaks Hostel, and the Peaks Bed and Breakfast. Most of the accommodation is situated in the village a short walk from the slopes however the hostel is closer to the Burfield Chair.
The Sun Peaks Village is very clearly European inspired with buildings that would not look out of place in Austria or Switzerland.If you stay in the village the Main Street remains snow covered throughout winter ensuring it is possible to ski from your accommodation to the lifts.
Away from the village centre it is possible to stay in East Village. East Village consists of many private accommodation rentals, mainly self-catering condos or houses. East Village is even more convenient with the introduction of the Orion chairlift.
SUN PEAKS PROS
Sun Peaks is the second largest ski resort in Canada (over 4,000 acres) meaning there is plenty of terrain to keep you occupied.
Sun Peaks ski resort has a village feel with ski-in ski-out accommodation
Snow quality at Sun Peaks is brilliant with regular cover and top up dustings of snow.
Sun Peaks lift infrastructure is mostly modern and quick.
The Tree skiing at Sun Peaks is great with widely spaced trees around the whole mountain.
SUN PEAKS CONS
The Burfield Chairlift… please someone just rip that thing out
There is a lack of real expert terrain at Sun Peaks.
The cheaper accommodation (Sun Peaks Hostel) is a 2km walk from the village.
SUN PEAKS GALLERY
SUN PEAKS ACTIVITIES
Away from the ski lifts Sun Peaks has plenty to offer. The 30+ km of cross-country ski tracks double up as a fat-biking trail which is a fun alternative to being in the resort. The village itself has; an ice-rink, spa, outdoor pool and dog sledding in addition to a large tubing area near the village platter.
If you fancy the trip 45 minutes downhill into Kamloops, then a trip to watch the Kamloops Blazers ice-hockey team is a must. In Kamloops you will find more facilities, like large supermarkets or shopping centres that could help you during your trip.
SUN PEAKS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS SUN PEAKS GOOD FOR BEGINNERS
Sun Peaks is excellent for beginners with two dedicated beginners areas and some nice long green trails. At Sun Peaks beginners can move around the whole mountain as there is green terrain accessible from most chairlifts. Beginners will enjoy 5 mile, a long run that winds its way from top to bottom of Mt Tod.
WHAT IS SUN PEAKS KNOWN FOR?
Sun Peaks is probably best known for its European style village that is perfectly placed to ensure visitors can make the most of its three mountain peaks. Sun Peaks refer to this as Sun Peaks 360 due to the 360 degrees of skiing that is possible from the village. It is also pretty call that it’s possible to ski down the Main Street in Sun Peaks to the chairlifts!
WHAT IS THE LONGEST RUN AT SUN PEAKS?
Out of the 137 trails at Sun Peaks 5-mile is the longest. Not surprisingly, this green trail is 5 miles (8km) long and can be found at the top of Mt Tod.
WHERE IN BC IS SUN PEAKS?
Sun Peaks closest major city is Kamloops a town with 83,000 residents. Sun Peaks is a 45 minute drive to the North of Kamloops down the mountain road. Sun Peaks location close to Kamloops makes a trip to see the local ice hockey team, Kamloops Blazers, popular amongst guests.
HOW BIG IS SUN PEAKS RESORT?
As the second largest skiable area Sun Peaks boundary covers 4,270 acres of skiable terrain split across three mountains; Mt Tod, Sundance Mountain, and Mt Morrisey. The layout of Sun Peaks ensures crowds (if there are any) are spread out around the resort keeping lift queues to a minimum.
DOES SUN PEAKS HAVE NIGHT SKIING?
Yes, but don’t get too excited. Night skiing at Sun Peaks is an infrequent occurrence and involves the lighting of the two green slopes at the Village Platter chairlift. There is access to the lower terrain park with small features. I would love to see Sun Peaks light up Sundance Mountain for night skiing. The terrain on that mountain is perfect and would make a great addition to night-skiing.
SUN PEAKS APRÈS SKI
In general, Sun Peaks is a quiet village but there are some decent bars if you do want to dance the night away. At the base of the slopes you will find Bottoms. Check out Bottoms for their happy hour and a Canadian staple.. Poutine. As the evening gets later Bottoms changes from restaurant feel to nightclub with regularly hosted special events and DJ sets. Morrisey’s Bar in the village hosts an open mic night which is where some of the resort locals come to share their musical talent. If open mic isn’t your thing then head out back to the Morrisey’s games room, a great way to meet other people and challenge for the pool table.
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Sun Peakls ski resort guide and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Sun Peaks ski resort? How does Sun Peaks compare to other BC ski resorts?
SUN PEAKS SKI RESORT INFO
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Top Things To Do In and Around Jasper During Winter
The town of Jasper is conveniently located on the doorstep of the Jasper National Park. Popular in both the summer and winter, Jasper is surrounded by the peaks of the Canadian Rockies and is a pretty epic location for a winter trip. Winter in Jasper can be cold with temperatures reaching on average -14 Celsius during January and February. But wait, don’t click away! These temperatures are what makes Jasper so exciting in winter, transforming waterfalls and lakes into huge ice curtains and frozen playgrounds. Read on to learn the best winter activities in Jasper.
SKI OR SNOWBOARD AT MARMOT BASIN
Marmot Basin ski resort is just 20km south of Jasper inside the national park boundary. Known for epic views and a lack of crowds, Marmot Basin is the perfect reason to visit Jasper during the winter months. Whether an expert or beginner, Marmot Basin has you covered with a diverse range of terrain to suit everyone. Skiing and snowboarding is possible at Marmot Basin between November and May making it one of the longest ski seasons in Canada. Check out the full Marmot Basin Ski Resort Guide
ICE SKATE ON A FROZEN LAKE
Despite having two ice rinks within the town of Jasper there is nothing quite like heading outside to a natural lake. Pyramid Lake freezes over during the winter making it possible for you to grab your skates and hit the ice with the Rockies as a backdrop. A short 12 minute drive from Jasper, it is possible to do this as an evening activity after your day on the slopes.
VISIT DURING JANUARY
January in Jasper is special and plays host to a local celebration. The Jasper in January Festival consists of a number of activities and events that highlight the best parts of this alpine town. Visiting during the festival is popular as there are often a number of discounts available on lodging and activities. The festival all culminates with a big street party and fireworks in the town.
I was lucky enough to spend a winter in Jasper and this event helped me meet many locals that I then connected with throughout my time in the town.
ADMIRE THE LOCAL WILDLIFE
Jasper is home to a number of wild inhabitants that roam the popular town throughout the winter. It is not uncommon to see deer or elk in the centre of town or grazing as you make your way to Marmot Basin. Canada’s wildlife is magnificent but should be respected. As with all wild animals ensure you give them their space and your respect.
HIT THE ICE
Jasper has its own curling club meaning it is possible to get involved and play this awesome sport for yourself. Curling consists of two teams who slide rocks along the ice aiming to be closest to the centre of the target. The Jasper Curling club was really welcoming and even gave us a quick demonstration before we started our game.
WALK THROUGH A FROZEN CANYON
The Maligne Canyon ice walk is a perfect winter activity. A mere 10 minute drive from downtown Jasper, the opportunity to walk through a frozen canyon can not be missed. Maligne Canyon is the deepest canyon in the Jasper National Park and offers visitors the chance to head further down through the limestone rocks until you are surrounded by walls of ice. Guided trips are available to Maligne Canyon and it is recommended that your wear spikes or appropriate footwear.
DRIVE ONE OF THE WORLDS MOST SCENIC ROADS
Ok, so maybe this one is cheating just a little bit because you kind of have to do it to reach Jasper but oh my what a journey! The Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper is consistently voted amongst the most scenic roads in the world. With plenty to see along the way, including the impressive Athabasca Glacier, this is a journey you won’t forget in a hurry!
WHAT DID I MISS?
Well, that is my list of the best winter activities in Jasper but what did I miss? Do you have a favourite Jasper bar? Did the Jasper Cinema deserve a place on the list? Let me know below in the comments
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Marmot Basin Ski Resort Guide
Marmot Basin near the town of Jasper in Alberta, is a ski resort inside the beautiful Jasper National Park. The area surrounding Marmot is filled with great views and landscapes that you won’t tire off. Much quieter than the resorts of Banff, Marmot Basin is a weekend ski destination for the locals in Edmonton. This means Monday- Friday you can feel alone at Marmot and that is not a bad thing. The lack of crowds can mean that fresh tracks can last for a couple of days following new snowfall, especially if you are prepared to hike for it.
MARMOT BASIN FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Having spent my first winter season at Marmot Basin it feels like a home from home for me. Arriving into the town of Jasper the locals were incredibly welcoming and I enjoyed my stay there. The Jasper in January celebrations were great as the whole town comes out. If you can plan your trip for this period I would recommend it. You will also receive discounts on lift tickets and lodging during this time. It is noticeable how cold it can be skiing or snowboarding at Marmot Basin and during January the lifts were shut for a few days due to the low temperatures. Come prepared, be sensible and you will have an awesome time.
MARMOT BASIN SKI AREA
Marmot has one of the highest base areas in Canada at 1698m. This helps not only maintain a high quality of snow but also ensures a longer season(November- May). With over 900m of vertical drop and 91 runs, including the new Tres Hombres area, Marmot is big enough to keep everyone happy.
The terrain is varied at Marmot with mellow beginner terrain accessible from the top of Eagle Ridge and the Canadian Rockies Express chairs meaning that first timers can still explore the mountain. For those wanting more challenge head to Eagles East which has lots of great double black diamond terrain. Hikes to Cornice and Peak Run are both well worth the effort and the views from the top breathtaking.
From a personal stand point, this was a fantastic resort for teaching at with a split of runs fairly even between beginner, intermediate and advanced trails. As a result, Marmot is therefore a fantastic place to learn or progress your riding. Marmot has two terrain parks, a beginner park with small rail and box features and a main park with a progression to larger jumps and rails.
Marmot Basin has 7 chairlifts with the Canadian Rockies Express being the fastest lift taking you from the base area. The Knob chair is slower but accesses some of the best terrain on the mountain so is well worth waiting for. The beginners slope School House has its own chair making sure life easy for never evers.
MARMOT BASIN SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN MARMOT BASIN
Marmot Basin is a fantastic resort to learn at. The Marmot Basin Ski School has two dedicated areas for beginners lessons. The Magic Carpet, next to the ski school base, and the School House Chair, a dedicated area with a few green trails; School House, Tranquilizer and Home Run. One real advantage of learning to ski and snowboard at Marmot Basin is that green terrain can be accessed even at the highest points of the mountain. This means that as a beginner you are not restricted to one area and can explore the who hill. Basin Run from the top of the Canadian Rockies Express Chair is a must for beginners.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN MARMOT BASIN
Marmot has plenty to offer intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Some nice groomed blue trails are available from the top of the Canadian Rockies Express Chair, whereas there are plenty of nice single black diamonds to progress onto. Highway 16 and Show Off are fantastic groomers when the conditions are right with lots of fun to be found of the Knob Chair and in the Bowls after fresh snow.
ADVANCED TERRAIN MARMOT BASIN
There is some really good advanced terrain at Marmot Basin. Eagles East was certainly an area I loved with a number of really interesting routes back down to the Eagle Express Quad. The top of Eagles East essentially is a ridge where you can drop in where you fancy. The glades in this area are also really fun. If you don’t mind a hike, then a trip to Cornice and the Marmot Peak are well worth the effort. The recently opened Tres Hombres area and Caribou Knoll are great places to go in search of freshies.
MARMOT BASIN FREESTYLE TERRAIN
Marmot Basin has two terrain parks. There is a mini rail park at mid mountain, which has a mixture of small rails and boxes that are mostly ride on. The main terrain park is near the base of the resort and has various lines to follow. The large terrain park is normally laid out with a medium to large jump line and other combinations of rails and boxes.
LIFTS AT MARMOT BASIN
Marmot basin has six chair lifts and a magic carpet. The lift infrastructure at Marmot Basin is a mixture of old and new, with the Canadian Rockies Express being the premium lift. The Canadian Rockies Express transports skiers and snowboarders from the base to the second highest lift accessed point in 8 minutes. The Eagle Express, Paradise and Eagle Ridge Chairs are all Quads with the Knob Chair being a slow double.
MARMOT BASIN SNOW RECORD
Marmot basin’s snow record isn’t anything to rave about with on average only 3m of the fresh stuff falling each winter. What makes Marmot stand out is its location, guaranteeing cold conditions and good quality snow and also low footfall. Marmot can feel like a mountain you have to yourself Mon-Fri which equates to less competition for first tracks.
MARMOT BASIN PISTE MAP
SEASON DATES
Marmot Basin has a long season lasting between November and May. The conditions at Marmot are particularly cold, especially throughout January and February.
MARMOT BASIN LIFT TICKETS
For up to date information on the Marmot Basin lift passes follow this link.
TRAVEL TO MARMOT BASIN
WHERE IS MARMOT BASIN?
Marmot Basin is located near the town of Jasper in the Jasper National Park. Getting to Marmot isn’t a short journey but the Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic roads to drive down. You will not regret the commute.
DRIVING TO MARMOT BASIN
Driving to Marmot is an experience in itself. The Icefields Parkway has been voted amongst the top 10 scenic drives in the world. The road from Lake Louise to Jasper certainly makes it worth the effort of driving past the Banff resorts.
As Marmot Basin is located within the boundary of Jasper National Park you will need to pay to enter the park.
PARKING AT MARMOT BASIN
Marmot Basin has 4 parking lots on the hill which is free and on a first come first served basis. The layout of Marmot allows you to ski back to your car throughout the day if necessary to pick up that extra layer or maybe some snacks!
HOW TO GET TO MARMOT BASIN
INTERNATIONAL
The closest international airports to Jasper at Edmonton (229m) and Calgary (251m). Coming from Europe there are more likely to be affordable flights into Calgary.
From both Calgary and Edmonton tour operators offer transfers to Jasper. I used SUNDOG
MARMOT BASIN ACCOMMODATION
There is no in resort accommodation at Marmot Basin with the majority of guests staying in nearby Jasper. Personally I stayed at the Whistlers Inn which had the benefit of a rooftop hot tub with mountain views. In Jasper you will find everything from hostels to luxury lodge style accommodation.
MARMOT BASIN PROS
Marmot Basin is a quiet ski resorts where you will rarely see crowds. I spent a season riding at Marmot and barely remember a lift line.
Marmot Basin is perfect for beginners who can explore the whole mountain on green terrain
Marmot Basin’s Eagles East area offers plenty of ungroomed terrain, chutes, drops, and glades for advanced riders to enjoy.
Marmot Basin has a longer ski season than most ski resorts.
Driving to Jasper and Marmot Basin is an experience in itself.
MARMOT BASIN CONS
Marmot Basin gets incredibly cold in January. Make sure to ride with a friend and watch out for frost nip.
With no on site accommodation at Marmot Basin you will need to commute from Jasper on a daily basis. Marmot Basin shuttles are available on a regular schedule and car parking is available at the resort.
MARMOT BASIN GALLERY
MARMOT BASIN ACTIVITIES
Activities at Marmot Basin will all happen away from the resort and back in or around Jasper. Walking in Maligne Canyon is an awesome winter experience. The Ice Walk at Maligne Canyon takes you deep into the canyon surrounded by tall walls of ice. A similarly epic winter experience is ice skating on Pyramid Lake. There are two ice-rinks available in Jasper itself, but what is more Canadian then heading to a frozen lake for a skate. Back in the town there is a cinema, curling, and a number of bars / pubs to while away the evening hours.
MARMOT BASIN FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS MARMOT BASIN GOOD FOR BEGINNERS
Marmot Basin is an excellent ski resort for beginners to visit. The dedicated learning area at School House offers the perfect gradient to perfect those turns. The real benefit of learning at Marmot is the ability to ski from the top of the mountain via green trails. This means that once beginners are feeling confident they can explore the whole hill.
IS MARMOT BASIN A MOUNTAIN?
Marmot Basin ski area is located across four mountain faces. There is 3000ft of vertical drop at Marmot Basin with the highest point being 8,570ft (2,612m)
HOW FAR IS MARMOT BASIN FROM JASPER?
Marmot Basin ski resort is a 20km drive South of the town of Jasper, AB. There are a number of daily shuttles that run between Jasper and Marmot Basin.
WHAT TIME DO THE LIFTS RUN AT MARMOT BASIN?
9:00 - 16:00 with the exception of School House chair which runs until 16:30.
DO YOU NEED A PARK PASS TO GO TO MARMOT BASIN?
Yes, Marmot Basin is within the Jasper National Park so you will need a valid park pass if you are driving to Marmot Basin.
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Marmot Basin ski resort guide and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Marmot Basin ski resort? What were your opinions? Which is your favourite Alberta ski area?
MARMOT BASIN SKI RESORT INFO
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Killington Ski Resort Guide
Aptly named the ‘Beast of the East’, Killington ski resort is spread across 7 mountain areas. One area, Killington Peak reaches 4,241 ft making it the second highest point in the state. This all alludes to the fact that Killington has masses of terrain which will keep the family happy not just all week, but all season. New England’s largest ski resort, Killington, also opens earlier and closes later than all other East Coast ski resorts.
KILLINGTON FIRST IMPRESSIONS
One of my first experiences at Killington was sitting on the Snowshed Express Quad whilst it had broken down, luckily this was the only set back to my trip. Killington impressed as a resort, with extensive infrastructure, good grooming and a really good ski school. Killington is renowned for is après ski and nightlife which make the area around the base lively.
KILLINGTON SKI AREA
If you are looking for more terrain than any other East Coast ski area, well Bingo, Killington is that mountain. Looking at the stats Killington ski area is huge. Spread across 7 peaks, with Killington Peak (1293m) the highest point, there is 929m of vertical drop. A Killington lift pass allows skiing and snowboarding at both Killington and Pico Mountains. Combined these ski areas offer 1,977 acres of skiable terrain across 213 trails. There are 155 trails at Killington resort with the majority being either intermediate (40%) or advanced (43% terrain).
Killington is located just seven miles from Pico Mountain, a locals favourite, which is included with your Killington lift tickets.
KILLINGTON SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN KILLINGTON
There are two obvious learning zones at Killington; Sunrise Mountain and Snowshed. Snowshed has two lifts; Snowshed Express Quad and Snowshed Double, that access a few green slopes. Snowshed slope is wide but can become busy during peak times. The area at Sunrise mountain is serviced by the Sunrise Village Triple Chair. This area has a few gentle greens that lead back to the chair.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN KILLINGTON
From Killington Peak, intermediates will love taking the long Solitude blue run around the boundary of Killington ski resort. There are plenty of blues at Skye Peak and also on Snowdon Mountain that will keep intermediates interested. If you feel the need to push yourself further, my first black diamond was Superstar.
ADVANCED TERRAIN KILLINGTON
Killington has plenty to offer challenge to the advanced skiers and snowboarders who visit the 7 peaks. The glades at Devil’s Den and Growler on Bear Mountain offer plenty of fun. Killington Peak comes into its own with some aptly named Double Blacks; Flume, Double Dipper and Flume.
FREESTYLE TERRAIN KILLINGTON
Killington ski area has partnered with Woodward to produce some of the best freestyle terrain on the East Coast. The Stash offers features made out of natural materials, whereas Bear Mountain is also home to the Half-Pipe. Ramshead Mountain is where you will find the majority of freestyle terrain with everything from the Family Cross adventure zone to the Olympic Athlete (Red Gerard) inspired Red’s Backyard.
LIFTS AT KILLINGTON
Killington has an excellent lift infrastructure with 21 lifts in total. Three gondolas cover the largest journeys in the resort, with the K-1 Express heading up to Killington Peak and accessing some of the double black diamond terrain. Furthermore, there is a collection of Quads, Triples, Doubles, and even a six person chair.
KILLINGTON SNOW RECORD
Despite being on the East Coast of the USA, often known for having more ice then fresh snow, Killington averages 250 inches of snowfall every winter. Thats 6.35m of natural snowfall, more than resorts like Verbier in Europe. Further to the natural stuff, Killington has extensive snowmaking that ensures the 250 snow guns can blast out 12 inches of snow in a 24 hour period. If you are looking to visit Killington when the conditions are at their best, the most snow tends to fall in February and March with 55in and 57in averages respectively.
KILLINGTON PISTE MAP
SEASON DATES
Killington not only has one of the longest ski seasons on the East Coast but one of the longest in the whole of North America. Killington will open, snow dependent, in late October or early November and run well into May. Some really good snow years have ensured the lifts have been able to turn on Superstar into June.
KILLINGTON LIFT TICKETS
Killington charge $165 for a daily ticket if bought at full-price on the day. Luckily for all of us reading this, we are not that silly and like to plan a little in advance. Advanced tickets will always get you the lowest price and further discounts are available when purchasing a multi-day ticket.
An adult season pass will set you back $1479 but again booking early could save you over $400! You can also ski and ride at Killington and nearby Pico mountain on the IKON Pass with 7 days access.
TRAVEL TO KILLINGTON
WHERE IS KILLINGTON?
Killngton ski resort has been popular with the weekend crowds travelling up from New York or Boston a 4/5 or 3 hour drive respectively. Killington’s location in the South of Vermont has made it a mainstay of the two cities with substantial visitors making use of the good transport links.
DRIVING TO KILLINGTON
Killington is ideally located close to both I-89 and I-91.
PARKING AT KILLINGTON
Killington has three base areas at which is possible to park; K-1 Lodge, Snowshed Lodge and Ramshead Lodge. All of the base areas offer free-parking so choose the one that best suits your needs. For all relevant parking information check here.
INTERNATIONAL
International visitors will most likely arrive into either New York or Boston and then need to make their way to Killington. Car rental is advised as Greyhound or Megabus journeys are long!
KILLINGTON PROS
Killington has more terrain than other East Coast Ski Resorts
Killington ski area is spread out across 7 peaks so you can find a space away from the crowds.
Killington has good lift infrastructure
Killington gets a decent amount of natural snowfall, over 6m!
Killington ski resort lift tickets also allow access at nearby Pico Mountain Resort.
The freestyle terrain at Killington is quality!
KILLINGTON CONS
$165 for a Killington day ticket seems steep!
The East Coast can serve up some icy and cold conditions.
Killington ski area is a good 3/4 hour drive from international airports!
KILLINGTON GALLERY
KILLINGTON FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS KILLINGTON A GOOD SKI RESORT?
Killington has terrain to suit all abilities making it a great option for everyone. As a large ski resort Killington has lots to offer both on and off the snow with a renowned Après scene. East Coast resorts can get icy but Killington has a better snow record than other East Coast ski resorts. The infrastructure at Killington, including the snow-making is modern and can help during lean periods without snowfall.
IS KILLINGTON GOOD FOR BEGINNERS?
My first ever week skiing was at Killington and I had a great time. With no prior experience I started in the designated beginners area at Snowshed but soon progressed across the whole mountain. With a number of lifts that just service the beginners terrain and some magic carpets, beginners have plenty to get them started. My experience of the ski school at Killngton was very positive.
CAN YOU SKI FROM KILLINGTON TO PICO?
There are no interconnecting trails between Killington and Pico. You can however take a shuttle or self-drive between the two resorts.
IS KILLINGTON GOOD FOR KIDS?
Killington ski resort has plenty to offer away from the trails. Obviously, skiing and snowboarding is the main reason to visit but if your kids fancy a break why not head to the tubing park? There is also dogsledding, ice-skating and a cinema to keep the family occupied.
IS KILLINGTON ON THE IKON PASS?
At Killington you receive 7 days of skiing with an IKON PASS. These days are shared between Killington and Pico mountains.
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Killington ski resort guide and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Killington ski resort? What were your opinions? Are there better ski resorts on the East Coast?
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A Guide To Snowboarding In Canada
Snowboarding in Canada has everything from wild mountain ranges to small local ski hills. British Columbia offers opportunities to ride some thigh burning terrain in some of the best powder conditions on the planet! Head across the border into Alberta and you will find colder temps and longer seasons set amongst the incredible back drop of the Rockies. Further East Ontario plays host to Blue Mountain the playground of Toronto and Quebec has the charming resort of Mont Tremblant. Whatever you are searching for, Canada has you covered with; amazing scenery, friendly hospitality and insane snowfall that combine for an epic ski trip.
Photo Credit @ameliasp8
Snowboarding in Canada is world renowned with many international guests heading back year on year. Why? Well it could be the beautiful mountain landscapes or the world class facilities at major Canadian ski resorts. Maybe it is the tree skiing that seems endless amongst the numerous towering evergreens. For me, it boils down to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere created by locals and the quiet resorts away from the crowds. Snowboarding in Canada can be glitz and glam but it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of resorts where with the insane amounts of snowfall is beggars belief that there are no lift lines!
CANADIAN SKI RESORTS IN BC
British Columbia is home to some of Canada’s best in resort and backcountry skiing and of course Canada’s largest ski resort Whistler Blackcomb. Whistler is Canadas most popular resort with more guests than any other mountain. The terrain at Whistler has it all and Whistler’s proximity to Vancouver is a leading factor in what makes Whistler ski resort so popular.
Known for the Powder Highway, interior BC is home to some serious freeride resorts; Kicking Horse, Panorama, Revelstoke, Red Mountain, Fernie and Whitewater. The only thing more legendary than the terrain at these resorts is the snow record. The snowfall in this area of BC is a major contributor to why there are so many successful cat-skiing and heli-skiing operators. The most famous of which is probably Baldface Lodge, host to the Supernatural snowboard competition.
Big White, Sun Peaks, Silverstar and Kimberley ski resorts make up the remainder of BC’s offering. These resorts, although less extreme than the other mentioned should not be overlooked. There is great terrain at each of these resorts, especially if you love tree skiing.
Photo Credit @themcny
CANADIAN ALBERTA SKI RESORTS
If you can brave the colder temperatures a trip into Alberta will not disappoint. The most popular resorts in Alberta are situated in the town of Banff and form the Ski Big 3. Sunshine Village, Lake Louise and Mt Norquay all offer something a little different. Norquay is often spoken of as a first day of your holiday ski resort, go to Norquay to rediscover your ski legs. Lake Louise is probably the most scenic ski resort in Canada. A modern ski area with fantastic facilities, Lake Louise is situated a 45minute drive outside of Banff. Mostly an intermediate mountain you may wish to head to Sunshine Village to get your thrills. The final offering of the Ski Big 3 in Banff is Sunshine Village. Sunshine is home to Delerium Dive, a dedicated off-piste area with steeps and drops.
Leaving Banff and heading along the Icefields Parkway, one of the worlds most scenic drives, you will come across Marmot Basin. A bit of a secret and weekend playground for the people of Edmonton. If you hit Marmot ski resort during the week it is likely that you will have the lifts to yourself. Castle Mountain is another ski resort in Alberta worth considering visiting. Castle Mountain is home to an inbounds cat skiing operation.
View from Marmot Basin
CANADIAN ONTARIO AND QUEBEC SKI RESORTS
Similar to the East Coast of the USA, Canada’s East Coast is home to ski resorts for the brave. Cold conditions and less snowfall mean that it’s easy to forget about the resorts of Ontario and Quebec. Mont Tremblant and Blue Mountain have good reputations but it is hard to justify heading to the East Coast with what is on offer out West. If you were to venture East Mont Tremblant ski resort is unique with its bright buildings, Quebecoise architecture cobbled walkways. The village at Mt Tremblant does put everything within easy reach and proves popular amongst East-Coasters.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHEN CAN YOU SNOWBOARD IN CANADA?
The majority of Canadian ski areas run their winter operations between November through to April. Some resorts like Marmot Basin in Alberta have longer seasons into May. Most years it is possible to ski on the glacier at Whistler Blackcomb through the summer in June and July!
WHAT IS THE BEST SNOWBOARDING RESORT IN CANADA?
Very much an opinion orientated question but here it goes. Whistler is consistently voted as being the best resort in Canada. I can see why with its facilities and terrain, but with that you also get expense and lift queues. Canada is privileged in that it has a number of incredible ski resorts without the reputation that Whistler has. For me, this potentially leads to a better resort experience.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SNOWBOARD IN CANADA?
Very much a variable answer depending on where you ski but lets take a simplified look at lift tickets. If you take the daily lift ticket price at the following popular Canadian ski resorts and average the prices the cost of a days skiing in Canada is CAD$104.67
Big White ( CAD$89), Blue Mountain ( CAD$63). Fernie ( CAD$134), Kicking Horse ( CAD$124), Red Mountain ( CAD$118), Sun Peaks ( CAD$105), Whitewater ( CAD$99.75)
CANADA SKI RESORT SNOW RECORD
Canadian ski areas get copious amounts of snow throughout the winter season. The Powder highway resorts of Whitewater, Revelstoke and Fernie receive an average of over 9m of snow each! Much more than this the powder that falls in this area is dry and fluffy meaning every flake should be savoured. On the coast of BC, Whistler receives the most snow with over 10m of average snowfall. Being on the coast, the snow can occasionally be heavy. In contrast Mont Tremblant on the East Coast receives just under 4m of average snowfall per winter.
WHY SNOWBOARD IN CANADA
Well if those snow record statistics didn’t entice you into a Canadian ski trip I am not sure what else will. For me a trip to Canada is all about the laid back resort towns, no lift lines and fantastic tree skiing.
MULTI RESORT PASSES CANADA
Unless you have been buried under a rock for the past few years, you will have heard of both the Ikon and the Epic Pass. There is some debate over whether these season passes are a good or bad thing for the ski industry in North America.
From a selfish standpoint I used the Epic pass for a season that allowed me to ski in the US, Japan, Europe and i’d planned a Australia trip (before Covid curtailed that idea). That is well… pretty Epic. To be able to ski across a number of resorts in different countries and continents is a unique. The Epic and Ikon are great for being able to access a number of resorts at what I deem to be a pretty reasonable price.
Sadly, these passes also come with a large downside. Crowds. The Epic and Ikon passes have encouraged more people to purchase season passes and have raised the profile of a number of resorts. The increased profile and accessibility has led to crowds, especially at peak holiday periods or weekends.
Although many locals view Epic or Ikon as a negative, potentially bringing more crowds to the resort, these passes have also led to a huge effort to increase the quality of infrastructure. Many resorts on the passes have received upgrades to their lift system and lodges which leads to a greater overall experience.
There are a number of other combined ski passes in North America such as the Mountain Collective or Indy Pass. These tend to offer a few days skiing or snowboarding across their member resorts.
In Canada you can receive unlimited skiing or snowboard at Whistler (EPIC PASS) and Blue Mountain/MT Tremblant (IKON PASS) but other lift pass privileges are restricted to limited days.
Epic Pass allows limited access to the following Canadian ski resorts; Fernie, Kicking Horse, Kimberley, Mont Sainte Anne, Nakiska, and Stoneham.
Ikon Pass allows limited access to the following Canadian ski resorts; Revelstoke, Red Mountain Resort, and Cypress Mountain.
THE CANADIAN SKI SEASON
The ski season in the Canada runs very similar to the operating durations in Europe. Most Canadian ski resorts operate between November and April with limited operations in May. Summer operations in Canada are restricted to the glacier at Whistler Blackcomber ski resort, BC.
RESORT REVIEWS
CANADA GALLERY
CANADA VIDEOS
COST OF A CANADIAN SNOWBOARD TRIP
From a European perspective a snowboard trip to Canada makes more financial sense than a trip to the USA.In terms of flight prices you will find similar deals to the major international airports. Once in country a lot of the expenses are similar but Canadian ski resorts tend to have cheaper lift tickets than their American counterparts. The difference between a day ticket at Sun Peaks and Killington equates to £23 per day, now that is money you could be spending in the bar!
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Northstar Ski Resort Guide
Northstar Ski Resort has everything you would expect from a destination ski area. Located north of Lake Tahoe in California, the Northstar ski area is owned by Vail resorts, therefore, is accessible using the Epic Pass. The resort and village are upmarket with a plethora of facilities to keep all the family entertained. Whether it is laps of the terrain park or the ice rink, Northstar California is guaranteed to be perfect for your family ski trip.
NORTHSTAR FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Arriving at Northstar and parking in one of the free car parks, you are transported to the village via a free shuttle bus. One thing of note was the driver spoke over a speaker, detailing what terrain was open and the forecast for that day and week. I thought that was a nice touch and something I have not noticed when visiting other ski areas.
When in the village you can see that the set-up at Northstar is first class. The village is clean and well-maintained, with a number of obvious facilities; ski rentals, shops, cafes, and the gondola. The gondola takes you from the village to the base of the Vista Express and the Tahoe Zephyr Express. Although you can ski back down to the village and the gondola base, the majority of the skiing is found above these two lifts.
Riding the Vista Express you get a pretty decent overview of the freestyle terrain managed by Northstar Park and Pipe crew. My last impression is just how much terrain is dedicated to the terrain parks at Northstar. This is a real USP for Northstar with features to suit skiers and snowboarders who are beginners all the way through to expert freestyle riders.
NORTHSTAR SKI AREA
Northstar ski resort is pretty big with nearly 100 runs, although its vertical drop of 695m can be considered fairly modest. There is nothing particularly gnarly at Northstar ski resort, which I think is why they have focussed on terrain parks to draw the advanced crowd.
There are three areas to the Northstar California ski resort; Mt Pluto, Backside, Lookout Mountain
MT PLUTO
Mt Pluto is accessible from the village Gondola and is where you will find the beginner trails in addition to the blue trails and terrain parks. The beginner trails, lead back to the village which is a nice way to end the day. The blue trails on Mt Pluto are groomed wide pistes, perfect for skiers and snowboarders who are ready to explore more of the mountain. You will also find the terrain parks on Mt Pluto. This is Northstar Resort’s main selling point. There are nine parks, including the pipe and being home to Burtons, The Stash. The stash is a terrain park made out of natural features, such as tree rides.
BACKSIDE
The backside is where you will find the majority of Northstars steeper terrain. There are some nice glades on the backside which make for some interesting tree skiing but nothing in comparison to Heavenly. The runs, as with all of Northstar, are pisted and well-maintained. Some may argue that some terrain on the Backside of Northstar should be left ungroomed.
LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN
Lookout Mountain similar to The Backside has mostly single black diamond terrain serviced by one chairlift, the Martis Camp Express. The chair is named after Martis Camp a member-only lodge that sits adjacent to the lifts. One long blue, Washoe, also runs down to the base of Lookout Mountain.
With less skiable terrain than nearby Epic Pass partner Heavenly, Northstar has had to flex to secure the advanced ability guests. With little in the way of natural features for this crowd, Northstar Park and Pipe set up has been given the run of Mt Pluto with nine terrain parks to really draw the freestyle crowd. Given the success of events such as slopestyle at the recent winter Olympics, this is a shrewd move.
NORTHSTAR SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN NORTHSTAR
There are a handful of beginner runs at Northstar with the majority close to the gondola and the village. Village run, a mellow green, is a nice way to end the day by riding back into the main village. There is enough to keep never evers interested whilst learning their first turns, and a returning beginner will be excited by the amount of blue terrain they could progress onto.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN NORTHSTAR
Northstar can be considered an intermediates mountain. There are so many nice pisted runs across the whole mountain. The terrain on Mt Pluto is mostly blue with the odd single black diamond thrown in. Both the backside and Lookout Mountain have plenty of single black diamond runs with some interesting tree skiing to be found.
ADVANCED TERRAIN NORTHSTAR
Northstar has some interesting riding on the Backside of the resort. Here you can find some of the steeper groomers as well as some decent tree-skiing. If you catch the conditions right, these trees can be a lot of fun. The terrain parks at Northstar Ski Resort cater for advanced skiers and snowboarders with some pretty hefty features. The halfpipe sits in a prominent position near the Vista chair and there are a number of large kickers and rail features. No wonder Northstar Park and Pipe is so popular.
LIFTS AT NORTHSTAR
Northstar ski resorts lift system is modern and efficient. Really nothing else should be expected from a resort that charges $200+ for a day ticket. The lifts are quick and include two gondolas and 7 express chair lifts.
NORTHSTAR SNOW RECORD
Northstar is blessed with an average of 9m of snowfall per season! When you throw in the number of sunny days that Californian ski resorts tend to receive then that makes for a winning combination. There is also extensive snow-making at Northstar which is fantastic for the resort if there is a lean winter.
NORTHSTAR PISTE MAP
SEASON DATES
Due to the plentiful snow record and the substantive snowmaking at Northstar, the season is able to run from around mid-November through to the end of April.
NORTHSTAR LIFT TICKETS
Ok, so this is not a typo. A day ticket at Northstar is around $209! That’s extortionate. Luckily, early booking, online booking and multi-day discounts can be applied to that. When you consider that buying a Tahoe Local Pass via Epic Pass can be done for under $500, it is nonsensical to purchase a day pass at Northstar. Plan ahead to make the most of your trip to Northstar.
NORTHSTAR VIDEOS
TRAVEL TO NORTHSTAR
WHERE IS NORTHSTAR?
Northstar ski resort in California is North of Lake Tahoe just 4 miles from Truckee Airport. You can access Truckee for International airports, with San Francisco being a popular connection point. Similarly, Reno International airport is a short 40-minute drive from Northstar so offers a great access point.
DRIVING TO NORTHSTAR
Due to the amount of snow that falls around Tahoe it is sensible to keep an eye on the road information. You can find your latest travel information here and cameras here.
PARKING AT NORTHSTAR
Parking at Northstar is free at the Village View and Castle Peak car parks. The Village View car park is closer to the village and therefore the gondola. Castle Peak car park is closer to the main road as you enter Northstar ski area. Both car parks are serviced by free shuttle buses that take you to the village.
Paid parking is available in the village which is adjacent to the gondola. The cost is $20 during the week or $40 on the weekends.
HOW TO GET TO NORTHSTAR
INTERNATIONAL
If like me you are arriving from outside North America then you will probably find it cheaper and easier to fly into San Francisco International Airport. From San Francisco, you can continue your journey by either taking an internal flight to Reno or take the 3-hour drive to South Lake Tahoe straight from San Francisco. It is also possible to fly into Sacramento and but you will have to connect via another US airport.
DOMESTIC
An internal flight to Reno or Truckee Airports will bring you to your closest access point to the Northstar ski resort. Reno offers a more regular schedule but is further away from Northstar.
NORTHSTAR ACCOMMODATION
Northstar has its own village at the base. This is an ideal place to stay if you want to have all the convenience of a resort ski holiday. More affordable accommodation can be found nearby in Truckee or close to Kings Beach North Lake Tahoe.
NORTHSTAR PROS
The terrain park set up at Northstar is insane. There is a whole side of the mountain dedicated to freestyle with features to suit all abilities. This is a real draw as to why people would visit Northstar.
The Village at Northstar is purpose-built, with everything you would need to make the most of your ski trip to Lake Tahoe.
Northstar would be a great choice of ski resort for a family ski trip. There is a really calm vibe, without the wild apres scene. The Northstar ice rink is just one of the potential evening activities for children and adults.
There is a fast lift system at Northstar. The Vista Express chair accesses the freestyle terrain and guarantees a quick lap. The Northstar gondola from the village is an efficient way to reach the main ski area.
Cruising blues? Intermediates will appreciate the nice wide pistes at Northstar. There are a number of single black diamond runs that will allow intermediates to progress further.
Contentious, but the Epic Pass makes Northstar affordable as a day visitor. I visited as day trips from my base in South Lake Tahoe. This meant more affordable lodging, and lift pass already included with Heavenly and Kirkwood on the Epic Pass.
NORTHSTAR CONS
Northstar is pricey. A stay in the village will hurt your wallet. Everything at Northstar is expensive. Whether it is lodging or lift tickets, food or facilities, you can be sure to spend a buck or two.
Northstar is fantastic and has a great reputation. Sadly this means crowds during peak weeks and weekends.
Northstar is missing the really gnarly terrain. It has a good area for tree skiing on the backside, but nothing to really get the heart pumping.
NORTHSTAR GALLERY
NORTHSTAR ACTIVITIES
The centrepiece of Northstar village is the ice rink. Within a stone’s throw of the slopes, it is possible to swap your ski boots for ice skates. Popular with families. the ice rink is surrounded by tables where those who would prefer to sit and watch with an apres pint may feel more comfortable. There are a number of fit pits to keep you warm as your family and friends skate the night away.
The Northstar Village is home to a number of shops and boutiques. At my time of visiting, there were a number of brand outlets such as; The North Face and Burton. If shopping isn’t your thing, then why not head out on a dog sled tour, go to the tubing run, or hit the cross-country ski trails.
NORTHSTAR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS NORTHSTAR GOOD FOR BEGINNERS
Northstar ski school has an excellent reputation and is a fantastic place to learn to ski or snowboard. There is nothing too steep or daunting at Northstar so beginners should feel comfortable exploring the mountain.
WHEN DOES NORTHSTAR OPEN?
Although this date will change year on year and be dependent on snow conditions, Northstar normally opens towards the end of November.
WHICH IS BETTER HEAVENLY OR NORTHSTAR?
Ultimately this comes down to opinion. Heavenly is the largest resort in Tahoe and therefore offers more terrain. If my only goal was to ride in a terrain park I would head to Northstar as their set up is insanely good. Beginners will also appreciate Northstar for the mellow terrain and less traversing around the mountain. Overall, I believe that Heavenly is a better mountain. There is more expert terrain and areas like Mott Canyon are so much fun. The Village at Northstar is more compact, whereas Heavenly has larger-scale hotel options.
IS HEAVENLY OR NORTHSTAR BETTER FOR BEGINNERS?
There is more mellow terrain at Northstar and less scary intermediate terrain. If I was learning I would choose to head to Northstar. There are a few nice dedicated beginner areas at Heavenly on both California and Nevada side. I feel that Northstar is a more navigatable mountain and this would factor into my decision making as a beginner.
WHO OWNS NORTHSTAR?
Northstar was bought by Vail Resorts for a huge $63million! This purchase brought Northstar into the Epic Pass family and means pass holders can ride for free at Heavenly, Kirkwood and a number of other US and world ski resorts.
HOW LONG ARE THE RUNS AT NORTHSTAR?
Obviously, the runs will vary in length but the longest run at Northstar is 2.6miles long. Northstar has 675m of vertical drop meaning that you can combine a number of runs from the summit of Mt Pluto to the village for a longer run.
IS NORTHSTAR GOOD FOR SNOWBOARDING?
Northstar California is a great mountain to snowboard on. The terrain parks and the widely spaced tree runs make Northstar incredibly snowboarder friendly. There are no long traverses and the mountain is serviced by a number of fast lifts.
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Northstar ski resort guide and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Northstar ski resort? What were your opinions? Are there better ski resorts in Lake Tahoe?
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