Southern Hemisphere Ski Spots For Summer Skiing

By Mandy Burkholder | March 12, 2016

Southern Hemisphere Ski Spots For Summer Skiing

Most people don’t automatically think of the Southern Hemisphere when they dream of ideal ski spots. But ignoring Earth’s lower half means crossing off some of the most epic mountains in the entire world. From the Andes Mountains to the Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island, these Southern Hemisphere ski spots have some of the lightest, freshest, and deepest powder you’ve ever seen.

What are you waiting for? The seasons are flipped in the Southern Hemisphere, so that means crazy skiing all summer long. You won’t even miss your home mountain after hitting up some of these spots!

Portillo, Chile

Make your summer homebase in Portillo, Chile with North America’s best professional skiers and snowboarders. This high elevation (10,860 feet at the top) resort has diverse runs, fine powder, and a lack of crowds. Ride the Condor Lift to access lines of almost 300 meters of vertical, or try your luck on the Super C Couloir. This expert-level line is an Andes staple. And if you’re after even more backcountry powder, take the Primavera Run or opt to purchase a heliski package for the day.

Craigieburn Valley, New Zealand

Expert skiers choose New Zealand’s Craigieburn Valley for it’s advanced terrain, long runs, and under the radar image. Deep, fresh powder awaits in the lofty mountains of New Zealand’s South Island. Split almost in half with intermediate and expert runs, Craigieburn Valley (or Craiggie for short) is the best kept secret in all of the Southern Hemisphere ski spots!

Bariloche, Argentina

For a taste of European flair, Bariloche has everything you’re craving. World-class amenities, lush powder, and exciting nightlife give this resort a uniquely cosmopolitan feel. With 62 miles of groomed runs and 39 lifts, it’s a tossup whether you’ll enjoy the mountain or the après-ski more. The best part about Bariloche? The terrain is perfectly mixed for beginners, intermediates, and expert skiers, so you can bring your whole crew along for the party!

Perisher, Australia

Reputable as the largest resort in the lower hemisphere, Perisher is actually four areas in one. Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Blue Cow, and Guthega combine to create a sizable acreage for you to enjoy. Spend all week exploring new runs or returning to your favorites. The diversity of terrain is perfect for all skill levels to enjoy, which makes Perisher a great family spot. They even have night skiing and a free fireworks show on Thursdays.

Las Lenas, Argentina

If you’re able to plan a longer trip down south, make sure to visit Las Lenas, Argentina. This resort is famous for it’s insanely accessible backcountry runs. The only problem? These bowls, gullies, and ridges are only open after a huge storm dumps powder across the higher elevations. That means a trip here is a bit dicey, unless you plan to stay a while. Luckily the wait is worth it, as Las Lenas’ backcountry is some of the finest in the world. All you have to do is take the Martes Chairlift to the highest point on the mountain and shred from there.

The Remarkables, New Zealand

Family friendly skiing mixed with expert level runs gives The Remarkables an alluring quality for skiers around the world. Not far from New Zealand’s Queenstown, the resort offers a wide range of activities to keep children of all ages in check. Snow tubing, eating contests, and park battles are all wonderful forms of on-mountain entertainment. And that’s not to mention the wide runs for beginners and steep slopes for experts. Do yourself a favor and visit The Remarkables… you wouldn’t want to miss out on a Lord of the Rings filming location, would you?