Part II: How to Ski in Nth Hemisphere This Summer

Hit the Glaciers in Europe and North America

 

If you’re looking for how to ski in the summer while staying in the Northern Hemisphere, then the glaciers may be the best option for you. There are plenty of resorts throughout Europe and North America that offer 365 day skiing and snowboarding with great snow conditions. Lets have a look at Hintertux, Zermatt, Whistler Blackcomb in Canada and Timberline Lodge in Oregon, North America.

 Hintertux, Austria

Austria

 

There are a variety of superb glacier options to choose from in Austria. Hintertux ski resort boasts the longest season. Meanwhile, Pitztal Glacier sits at the highest elevation of all and Stubai is known for its modern lift system. Although there are multiple ski glaciers in Austria, summer hours vary depending on the season. Many may be closed until the autumn months.

 

Hintertux is the only 365 day season resort in Austria. It was voted Best Glacier Ski Resort WORLDWIDE by industry experts in 2011. The resort advertises their summer experience as “all four seasons wrapped in one and fabulous views stretching as far as the Grossglockner, Dolomites and Zugspitze.” With over 60km of slopes, off-piste runs and terrain parks, Hintertux is a popular destinations when looking for how to ski in the summer.

 

Theodul Glacier, Zermatt, Switzerland

Switzerland

 

Switzerland, like Austria has many glacier skiing options for the summer months. Though some, like Engelberg, are shrinking and are no longer open for skiing and snowboarding. There are still quite a few great options for how to ski in the summer in Switzerland. Saas-Fee ski resort and Zermatt ski resort are the most popular choices, as well as Tignes ski resort in nearby France – just a few hours by car from Geneva International Airport.

 

Interested in skiing with views of one of the most photographed mountain on earth, the Matterhorn? Catch the highest cable car in Europe to the Theodul Glacier at Zermatt ski resort and enjoy 21 km of groomed slopes, an extensive terrain park and snow tubing. The glacier is also a common destination for the summer training for national ski teams. The ski resort permits spectators on the glacier, as world cup skiers train for speed disciplines. If you’re looking to combine Swiss culture, breathtaking views and autographs, Zermatt may is the best option for how to ski in the summer.

 

Timberline Lodge, Mt. Hood, Oregon

USA

 

If you are in North America and not keen on flying to Europe, you can head to Timberline Lodge in Oregon for an American glacier experience.  Located at the top of an 11,245 foot volcano, the glacier boasts a 2,616 vertical drop – accessible with the Palmer Express high-speed quad lift. Weather permitting, Timberline Lodge ski resort is open during all four seasons. As a result, it offers the longest ski season in all of North America. Some of the terrain is reserved for Olympic athletes, up-and-coming racers and freestyle enthusiasts. However, Timberline Lodge maintains open areas for the public. The Palmer glacier is an easier option for how to ski in the summer for those looking to avoid heading abroad.

 

Horstman Glacier, Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

Canada

 

Canada has many well-known resorts, with many of them maintaining great snow conditions through the late Spring. However, summer options are limited and your best option is Whistler Blackcomb ski resort, which is open year round.

 

While many of the other glacier skiing options cater to intermediate skiers, the Horstman glacier at Whistler Blackcomb ski resort is for advanced and expert skiers and boarders only. The glacier is ideal for freestyle enthusiasts, and those looking for a glacier camp. The glacier is accessible by two t-bars only. The one public trail is made up of an extensive terrain park, while others are reserved for camps. Horstman glacier isn’t for those looking for a full summer skiing schedule. However, Whistler has many activities to enjoy during your time off from skiing, such as hiking, swimming, biking, dining and shopping.