We’ve compiled a list of five of the snowiest ski resorts in the world. Nothing excites a skier like the news of fresh snowfall atop a mountain they’re about to hit.
Which begs the obvious question: which are the snowiest ski resorts? We round up a few of our favourites where you’re likely to have fresh powder to glide through on your holiday.
Just to clarify, we’re looking at the resorts that consistently top snowfall tables, not the most snow-sure resorts. There is a key difference, as some of the resorts on this list are vulnerable to warming, or more exposed to wind. Hence despite the hefty amounts of snow landing, there are other resorts where you’re more guaranteed snowy slopes.
We’ve included a mix of European and North American slopes that get the most snow, taking a country by country approach. In general, the North American mountains receive plenty more snowfall than the snowiest European spots. However take that with a pinch of salt, as there’s a greater tradition of scientifically tracking snowfall across the pond, rather than in Europe where this is a relatively new phenomenon (meaning less dedicated infrastructure to track snow).
And a reminder the best way to check the latest snowfall at your favourite resort, is via the OnTheSnow app (download on iOS and Android).
Snowiest ski resorts
Check out our five favourite snowiest ski resorts in the world . . .
Warth-Schröcken, Austria
The snowiest mountains in Europe are to be found in Austria, and among those, one reigns supreme. On average, Warth-Schröcken gets a whopping 11 metres of snow a year. There’s plenty of excellent skiing to take advantage of here, including the Run of Fame – an 85km circuit departing from Warth and going via Arlberg, Flexen and Hochtannberg. Warth is most certainly well-deserving of its place on our ‘snowiest ski resorts’ list.
Braunwald, Switzerland
Braunwald isn’t a household name as a ski resort, but considering has the most natural snow in Switzerland, perhaps that should change. This car-free resort gets roughly nine metres of snow a year. However, there aren’t many runs to take advantage of the excellent weather on, just 10 in total. If you want to visit for the brilliant snowfall, it’s best you get there early in the season – the resort’s relative lack of height means the sun causes issues in Spring.
Avoriaz, France
For many British skiers, France is the number one destination, and the snow hunters among you are best served heading to Avoriaz. With 7.5 metres of snow on average a year, the slopes constantly receive fresh powder to plough through. For any snowboarders reading, this entry should be of particular interest, as Avoriaz is especially rider friendly. Furthermore, Avoriaz is an excellent spot for beginners, and the fresh snowfall gently caresses them, should they happen to tumble.
Mount Baker, Washington
Moving across the pond you’ll quickly see just how much more snow American resorts get. Little known Mount Baker in Washington has an annual snowfall of roughly 16.8 metres, blowing everything in Europe out of the water. Furthermore, this is the snowiest resort in the world! Again, despite being so snowy, the resort itself isn’t huge with just 38 runs and 10 lifts.
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Powder days are a way of life in Whistler. There’s palpable excitement for every new snow dump, and the punters get their wish pretty regularly thanks to 11.3 metres annual snow. Another feather in Whistler’s cap, is the fact that it combines fantastic snowfall with snow-sure conditions throughout the season. Therefore, even if you head to the British Columbia resort in April, the slopes are still covered in snow.
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April 09, 2024
