7 Best Ski Trips to Take at Least Once in Your Lifetime

Are you a skier who dreams of new adventures? Do you feel like you've exhausted all the ski resorts in your area? Why not book a ski trip that will go down in your family's history as the most epic adventure ever? Here are seven of the best ski trips you should take at least once in your lifetime, whether you're looking for a thrill or just to soak in the scenery.

1. Chamonix, France

The Chamonix Valley offers a number of challenges for those who want to push themselves to the limit, even if they are experienced skiers. At the base of Europe's highest mountain, Mont Blanc, the area has off-piste trails and heli-skiing that will make your trip unforgettable.

With four main ski areas to explore (Le Brévent - La Flégère, Les Grands Montets, Balme and Les Houches) and breathtaking scenery, you'll never ski the same spots twice. Some of Europe's most iconic downhill runs are located in this area, including the Vallée Blanche, a 20km off-piste route that offers breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. We recommend doing this one with a guide.

2. Jackson Hole (Wyoming), United States

Are you ready for an epic ski trip? A ski getaway to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is perfect for thrill-seeking Canadians. Jackson Hole may not have as extensive a ski area as some of the other popular resorts, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in quality. Featuring over 2,500 acres of terrain with some of the steepest runs in North America, there is no doubt that this will be an experience you won't forget.

Advanced skiers will enjoy Jackson Hole's legendary Corbet's Couloir, an absolute must for anyone brave enough to take on a 10+ foot drop! If you're less experienced, don't worry, you'll be able to see the run from the tram on your way to the top. To get the best view of Corbet's Couloir, you should sit on the left side of the lift.

3. Niseko, Japan

If you're looking for a unique and exotic ski trip, Niseko should be on your list. Known as one of Asia's top ski destinations for its constant light powder snowfall, Niseko will provide you with an unforgettable skiing experience, whether you’re into freeride or backcountry skiing.

With five ski areas to explore (Niseko Hanazono Resort, Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Niseko Annupuri Ski Resort and Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort), Niseko offers skiers a wide variety of slopes ranging from beginner to extreme. Since the mountains around Niseko are active volcanoes, there are many hot springs (onsen) nearby, making it the perfect place to relax after a long day on the slopes!

4. Banff (Alberta), Canada

If you want to experience the best skiing in Canada, head to Banff National Park. Featuring three ski resorts (Lake Louise Ski Resort, Norquay Resort, and Sunshine Village, all part of SkiBig3 Resorts) and incredible backcountry opportunities, this is truly winter heaven! There is everything to enjoy in Banff, from easy green runs to challenging steeps and everything in between. With over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, you could spend weeks exploring all the area has to offer.

Banff isn't just about skiing. The town itself is vibrant, with dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops that keep you entertained when you aren't on the slopes. To soothe your aching muscles after a day on the slopes, head to the Banff Upper Hot Springs, located close to Sulphur Mountain. Considering it's only $9.25, there's no reason not to go.

5. Verbier, Switzerland

With the ski season peaking in February in some parts of Canada, extend your skiing experience with a trip to Verbier. With stunning views of the Alps, this luxury resort offers world-class skiing from November to April. With guaranteed snow on the highest peaks throughout the season, you can enjoy one of the longest ski seasons in Europe.

Verbier offers over 400 kilometres of ski runs spread over four distinct slopes at altitudes ranging from 1,500 to over 3,300 metres. This includes some of the steepest slopes in Europe in addition to some of the best off-piste skiing in the world. Verbier is known for its ultra-photogenic splendour and its incredible variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants where you can enjoy tartiflette, cheese fondue and many other Swiss specialties.

6. Aspen (Colorado), United-States

You may recognize Aspen from a number of popular American films or from seeing it on TV. There's a reason it is one of the most popular ski destinations in North America. It offers over 330 trails on 2,239 hectares of land spread over four distinct mountains:

● Aspen Mountain: known for its challenging mogul runs;

● Aspen Highlands: better suited for professional skiers (with steep 110° slopes);

● Buttermilk: renowned for being beginner-friendly;

● Snowmass: which offers over 237km of skiable terrain.

What really sets Aspen apart is its access to off-piste skiing. Within minutes of leaving the resort's boundaries, skiers can find themselves in pristine powder fields, making this ski trip unforgettable!

7. Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy

If you are an experienced skier, you must visit Cortina d'Ampezzo, the pearl of the Dolomites, which is widely regarded as Italy's ski paradise. In Cortina d'Ampezzo, you can indulge your love of food while participating in a variety of skiing activities. The region is known as one of the most luxurious ski resorts in the world. It has hosted several international events, including the 1956 Winter Olympics and the 2021 World Alpine Skiing Championships.

You can choose from perfectly groomed slopes or explore the backcountry in search of fresh powder. Cortina d'Ampezzo offers over 120 kilometres of runs over five different mountains at altitudes up to 2,500 metres, catering to beginners and experts alike. The "Armentarola" run at 5 Torri is one of the favourites runs for skiers, as it winds its way down through pine forests and open meadows in an enchanting setting along 8 km of pure skiing bliss.

Answer the call of the snowy mountains

These seven ski trips will provide unforgettable experiences that will not only push you beyond your limit but also take you out of your comfort zone. Whether exploring the classic Italian slopes or taking advantage of off-piste opportunities like heli-skiing in the majestic mountains of Switzerland, you won't be disappointed!

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime, grab your gear, and start packing.

‍Contact a soNomad agent to discuss your travel insurance needs before hitting the slopes!