20 Snow-Covered Paradises for Winter Sports Lovers

Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Arosa is a charming, family-friendly resort with excellent snow conditions and a relaxing atmosphere. The ski area is well-suited for beginners and intermediates, with scenic views of snow-covered mountains and alpine villages.

Highlights: Family-friendly, beautiful alpine setting, varied slopes for all levels.

While many think of winter sports only in the Northern Hemisphere, Argentina offers some incredible skiing in the Southern Hemisphere's winter months. Cerro Catedral in Patagonia is a favorite, with stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains.

Highlights: Skiing in South America, stunning Patagonian scenery, spring skiing (June-August).

Located in Quebec, Mont-Tremblant is one of the best resorts in eastern Canada. It’s known for its lively village, excellent skiing, and snowboarding terrain, as well as its proximity to Montreal, making it easy to access for both international and local visitors.

Highlights: European-style village, varied terrain, winter festivals.

Laax is one of Europe’s best spots for snowboarding, with a world-class freestyle scene and some of the best terrain parks in the Alps. The resort also offers excellent conditions for skiing and is known for its commitment to sustainability.

Highlights: Freestyle snowboarding, extensive terrain parks, modern infrastructure.

Lech-Zürs is a luxurious resort located in the Austrian Alps, offering skiing on both well-groomed and powder-filled slopes. The village's cozy, upscale vibe and its blend of local tradition with modern amenities make it a favorite among winter sports lovers.

Highlights: Exclusive atmosphere, world-class ski conditions, après-ski luxury.

Val Thorens is Europe’s highest ski resort, part of the Three Valleys area, and is known for its incredible snow conditions. With over 600 kilometers of interconnected runs, this resort attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.

Highlights: High-altitude skiing, extensive slopes, snow reliability.

Sun Valley, in Idaho, is the birthplace of American skiing and is famous for its consistent snow and luxurious atmosphere. The resort features vast ski terrain and plenty of cross-country trails for those who want to explore the snow-covered landscape at a slower pace.

Highlights: Historic resort, wide variety of snow activities, beautiful setting.

Known for hosting one of the world’s most famous ski races, the Hahnenkamm, Kitzbühel is a charming, picturesque town offering everything from gentle slopes to steep, thrilling runs. The resort is rich in history and features a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

Highlights: Historic alpine town, challenging downhill racing runs, excellent ski school programs.

A haven for advanced skiers and snowboarders, Verbier is a high-altitude resort in the Swiss Alps with vast, varied terrain. The area’s snow conditions and après-ski culture are legendary, and it offers great opportunities for off-piste adventures.

Highlights: Expansive ski area, off-piste skiing, vibrant nightlife.

Telluride offers a unique combination of challenging terrain, breathtaking scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere. Located in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, it boasts over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain and a charming, historic town to explore when not on the slopes.

Highlights: Wide range of terrain, small-town charm, beautiful landscapes.

Revelstoke is a hidden gem in the Canadian Rockies, offering some of the deepest snow and longest vertical drops in North America. It’s the perfect destination for serious powder seekers and those looking for more off-the-beaten-path skiing experiences.

Highlights: Deep powder, extreme vertical, backcountry terrain.

Part of the Espace Killy ski area, Val d'Isère is a French Alpine resort known for its vast skiing options and reliable snow conditions. With over 300 kilometers of slopes and access to some of the most famous freeride areas in the world, it's an ideal spot for adrenaline junkies.

Highlights: Skiing in the heart of the Alps, vibrant après-ski scene, wide range of slopes.

hamonix is one of the oldest ski resorts in the world and is revered by expert skiers and mountaineers. Situated at the base of Mont Blanc, Chamonix offers challenging terrain, glacier skiing, and extreme sports, including ice climbing and paragliding.

Highlights: World-class mountaineering, challenging slopes, glacier skiing.

Located in the Dolomites, Cortina d'Ampezzo is often referred to as the "Queen of the Dolomites." It offers a blend of excellent skiing, stunning alpine scenery, and Italian charm, making it an ideal destination for those who love both sport and culture.

Highlights: Beautiful alpine setting, ski resort with a blend of both modern and classic charm, Italian cuisine.

Banff and Lake Louise are nestled in the heart of Canada’s Banff National Park, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and pristine alpine lakes. With three ski resorts—Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay—there is an abundance of skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Highlights: Scenic views, historic town of Banff, variety of terrain, skiing in a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Niseko is renowned for its legendary powder snow, which makes it a paradise for snowboarders and skiers alike. Located on the island of Hokkaido, this resort offers incredible off-piste terrain and stunning views of Mount Yotei.

Highlights: Light, dry powder snow, backcountry skiing, unique Japanese après-ski.

Aspen is synonymous with luxury, glamour, and world-class skiing. Located in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen boasts four ski areas and a variety of snow sports, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Highlights: Celebrity sightings, high-end resorts, varied terrain for all levels.

Known for its challenging slopes and lively après-ski culture, St. Anton is the perfect destination for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Located in the Tyrolean Alps, it offers over 300 kilometers of pistes, complemented by deep powder runs for off-piste lovers.

Highlights: Off-piste skiing, après-ski in lively bars, deep powder skiing.

Whistler Blackcomb is North America's largest ski resort and a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts. With over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain and a vibrant village atmosphere, it offers something for everyone—from beginners to expert powder hounds.

Highlights: Extensive terrain, snowboarding, après-ski options, and mountain biking in summer.

A classic destination for both skiers and snowboarders, Zermatt sits at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn. The resort boasts an impressive range of pistes, and its car-free village adds to the charm. For those seeking a mix of luxury and adventure, Zermatt offers world-class skiing and unmatched views.

Highlights: 360° skiing, high-altitude glacier runs, après-ski culture.