Ski Resorts with Reliable Snow

The Italian ski resort of Cortina is widely regarded as having the most reliable snow in the world.  For this reason it was selected to host Italy’s first Winter Olympics, and it continues to host world class ski competitions on a regular basis.  The great snow conditions are created due to the fact that Cortina is set in a natural amphitheatre surrounded by huge peaks which all reach heights of more than 3,000 meters.    

Tignes ski resort in France is also well-known for having reliable snowfall.  This is a quality that you should be aware of when planning a ski holiday as you won’t want to be disappointed when you arrive at your destination and discover that they are having a bad season and you are unable to actually hit the slopes.  The main advantage of Tignes is its strategic location at more than 2,100 meters above sea level in the middle of the French Alps.  Another factor that plays a role in regulating the climate of the Tignes area, and making it a great place to ski, is the La Grande Motte glacier which is located in the middle of the resort.  Skiing on this glacier gives you access to wide open spaces which is a real thrill.      

Of the North American ski resorts, those located in Utah in the United States generally have the best reputation for reliable snow fall.  Of these Utah ski resorts, one of the best is Deer Valley.  Deer Valley receives an average of around 300 inches of snow each year, and this is backed up by advanced snow making facilities that cover approximately 2.3 square kilometers of the park.  Unfortunately, Deer Park is one of the three remaining ski resorts in the United States that continues to enforce a strict ban on snowboarding.

Where it snows

Val Thorens, France
As the resort with the highest elevation in France, Val Thorens also gets the earliest snowfall. In early December, the resort opens for skiing which is early for the area. The snow is powdery and dry at Val Thorens.

Alyeska Resort, Anchorage, Alaska, USA
When talking about resorts with reliable snow, Alyeska is definitely at the top of the list. With an average snowfall of 513 inches annually, the precipitation is certainly reliable.

Niseko, Japan
Niseko has a whopping 595 inches of snowfall per year. This amount of snow ensures deep coverage that lasts a good, long time and renews itself regularly.

Innsbruck, Austria
With an average base of 60 inches and fresh powder of 10-20 inches, the snow is certainly reliable at Innsbruck. Even without daily fresh snow, the snowmaking capabilities make for reliable snow to avoid disappointed skiers.

Telluride, Colorado, USA
Telluride Ski Resort absolutely has a reliable amount of snow. The average annual snowfall is over 300 inches and fresh powder usually accumulates daily. There are snowmaking devices but fortunately, there is rarely a shortage of newly fallen powder at Telluride.

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