Rhys Dyer, 26
If you’re a casual skier who likes to ski the greens and blues with your family or maybe a more advanced rider in it for the thrills on steep slopes, these dream skiing destinations are only a flight away. The conditions needed to be met in order to build a ski resort are relatively rare to come by, however, ski resorts exist all over the globe. Although it’s heavily debated which resorts are the best, many people agree on the fact that Switzerland, France, Japan, the US, and Canada are home to some of the most popular and renowned resorts globally. Within each nation, the best resorts are often ranked by snowfall quantity and quality (i.e. amount of powder), challenge diversity, scenery, accessibility, price, and infrastructure (lifts+gondolas+on mountain lodges). Based on these factors, I’ve listed the top three from each nation below and explored what makes each so unique.
Switzerland- Zermatt
Zermatt is easily one of the best all-around ski towns in the world, getting tons of snow each year right there on the Swiss alps. This small village has some of the greatest skiing views possible being tucked away just below Matterhorn’s peak. In the winter, you can even catch a glimpse of the northern lights. Zermatt offers moonlight descents where you can ski at night, certainly one of the most surreal and unique moments you can experience. Besides the fancy restaurants, boutique shops, and the winter village feel, Zermatt has access to a variety of other activities and outdoor outlets, such as hiking, skiing, and climbing Matterhorn. Zermatt Ski Resort has 53 lifts in total, adding to the opportunity for exploration and beautiful off piste runs. A cheap seat on a Swiss airline flight to Zurich costs you about 800$ per person and a night at a local hotel will cost you anywhere from about 300$ up to thousands of dollars depending on the hotel and room you buy. Although this vacation may also break the bank, Zermatt is a mecca for skiers and snowboarders worldwide for good reason.
Japan-Niseko
I consider Niseko to be one of the strongest contending ski resorts in the world for a number of reasons. That said, many ski resorts in Japan are so amazing due to the unique weather conditions in Japan. Cold northern winds blow through the tall mountain ranges of Japan causing the air in the upper atmosphere to drop significantly, creating a water vapor that then comes down as snow. Because of this, Japan is renowned for having the most and highest quality powder in the world. In addition, you have inspiring views from the lift being able to view picturesque mountain ranges in the distance. Flights to Niseko from BNA will cost somewhere from 1000 to 2000 dollars depending on airline and seats per person. A night in a hotel will cost you about $300-500 $ per night. Although Niseko is incredibly expensive, you ultimately get the best skiing experience of your life. It’s an added bonus that you can explore authentic, traditional Japanese foods and culture while there.
Utah-Park City
Park City is undisputed as being one of the best resorts to ski in the US. What separates it from other resorts in Colorado is the variety of lifts. If you ski in Park City, you get access to over 42 different lifts and 7200 acres of dedicated ski area. In comparison, a resort like Telluride only allows access to 13 lifts. Utah and Colorado have similar snow conditions and breathtaking views of the rocky mountains, but the accessibility for skiers and boarders of all skill levels makes it stand out over other resorts. 50% of all lifts are considered “black diamonds”, and 42% are “blue” with the remaining slopes being “greens.” If you’re unfamiliar, greens are considered beginner slopes, blue slopes are classed as intermediate level, blacks are expert only, double blacks are also expert only but are usually steeper or rougher which makes them more difficult. This ratio of slopes is ideal for the majority of skiers. Adding on to the variety, Park City has access to 7 terrain parks including small half pipes to mega jumps fit for experts only. This sets this resort above many others, since most places have only a couple of parks, and others have none at all. A flight to Park City costs about $500 per person if you take Southwest or Delta airlines and lodging is about $200 up to $500 on the higher end, if you want to stay at a ski-in ski-out resort it will be a lot more expensive though. In contrast to the previous two trips this is cheaper albeit still quite expensive, but any skiing trip will be expensive. In conclusion, skiing is an incredibly expensive activity. The travel costs don’t even account for the gear you need, lift passes, and food, but in my personal opinion, there is no better vacation out there. There isn’t any feeling quite like it. Every dollar spent is a dollar well used.