Spring skiing is the best, y’all. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Sure, the snow might not be as fresh and powdery as it is in the dead of winter, but there are so many other benefits to hitting the slopes in the springtime.
First of all, the crowds are way thinner. Everyone and their mother is out on the mountain in the winter, but come spring, all the basic skiers and snowboarders have packed up their gear and headed back to the city. This means less waiting in lift lines and more fresh tracks for you and your crew.
But the biggest perk of spring skiing, in my opinion, is the weather. No more freezing your butt off on the chairlift or shivering in the lodge. The days are longer and the sun is shining, which means you can actually feel your fingers and toes again. Plus, there’s nothing quite like taking a break from shredding and soaking up some Vitamin D on a sunny patio with a cold beer.
Now, I know some people might be worried about slushy conditions or icy patches on the mountain, but that’s where a good pair of spring ski boots comes in handy. They’re specifically designed to handle the softer, wetter snow of the spring season, so you can still carve turns with confidence.
So don’t let the end of winter get you down. Embrace the springtime and hit the slopes for some epic skiing and riding. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Some Favorite Spots for Spring Skiing
There are tons of great resorts out there that are perfect for spring skiing, but here are a few of my personal favorites:
- Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada: This place is known for its massive amount of snowfall and long ski season, so you can usually count on good conditions even in the spring. Plus, the après ski scene in Whistler is top-notch, with tons of great bars and restaurants to hit up after a day on the mountain.
- Mammoth Mountain in California: Mammoth has a reputation for having some of the best spring skiing in the U.S., thanks to its high elevation and cold nights that help preserve the snowpack. The resort also has a ton of fun events and activities going on during the spring season, like live music and pond skimming contests.
- Tignes in the French Alps: Tignes is known for its legendary spring skiing, with its high-altitude glacier offering some of the best snow in Europe. The resort also has a killer après ski scene, with tons of bars and clubs to keep the party going all night long.
- Mount Hood Meadows in Oregon: Mount Hood Meadows may not be as well-known as some of the other resorts on this list, but it’s definitely worth checking out for spring skiing. The resort gets a decent amount of snowfall and has a long ski season, plus it’s only about an hour’s drive from Portland, making it a convenient option for a quick ski trip.
So if you’re looking to get in some spring turns, any of these resorts would be a solid choice. Happy skiing!