Best Summer Skiing Destinations 2026
Who says skiing is only for winter? Discover the world's best summer skiing destinations where you can carve fresh turns in July and August.
Why Ski in Summer?
Glacier skiing, Southern Hemisphere seasons, and high-altitude resorts make year-round skiing possible. Perfect for training, vacation flexibility, or simply can't-wait-for-winter enthusiasts.
Where to Ski When It's Hot
Summer skiing falls into three categories: European glacier skiing (June-September), Southern Hemisphere resorts (June-October), and year-round glacier destinations. Each offers unique advantages from race training to powder skiing under sunshine.
Zermatt, Switzerland
The highest ski area in Europe with guaranteed snow 365 days a year. Klein Matterhorn glacier offers 21km of pistes even in August.
Saas-Fee, Switzerland
Perfect summer training ground with wide, sunny glaciers. Home to freestyle ski camps and national team training.
Hintertux Glacier, Austria
Austria's only year-round ski resort. 60km of pistes with guaranteed snow and stunning views of the Zillertal Alps.
Valle Nevado, Chile
Huge ski area with 900 hectares of terrain. Perfect escape during Northern Hemisphere summer with fresh Andes powder.
Treble Cone, New Zealand
Largest ski area in New Zealand with stunning Lake Wanaka views. Epic terrain parks and natural half-pipes.
Tignes, France
Summer skiing on Grande Motte glacier with 20km of pistes. Popular with ski teams and freestyle athletes.
Summer Skiing Tips
What to Expect
- Limited Terrain: Summer skiing usually covers 20-30% of winter terrain, focused on higher elevations
- Morning Skiing: Best conditions are typically before noon when snow is firm
- T-bar Lifts: Many summer areas use T-bars and drag lifts instead of chairlifts
- Ski Camps: Perfect time to join training camps or improve technique with pros
- Weather Variability: Bring layers - morning can be freezing, afternoon warm
Best For Different Skiers
Beginners & Intermediates
Recommended: Zermatt, Hintertux
Wide, groomed runs with excellent facilities and ski schools operating in summer.
Advanced & Experts
Recommended: Valle Nevado, Treble Cone
Challenging terrain, powder skiing, and fewer crowds for advanced riders.
Freestyle & Terrain Parks
Recommended: Saas-Fee, Tignes
World-class terrain parks and training facilities open all summer.
Families
Recommended: Zermatt, Hintertux
Safe, accessible terrain with summer activities beyond skiing.
Planning Your Summer Ski Trip
Best Months by Region:
- European Alps: June-August (mornings only by September)
- South America: July-August for best conditions
- New Zealand: August-September for peak season
- Year-round resorts: Anytime, but avoid October-November (glacier maintenance)
Budget Tip (Summer)
Summer skiing is often cheaper than winter! Many resorts offer discounted lift tickets (50-60% off winter prices) and accommodation rates drop significantly. Consider package deals that include summer activities like hiking, mountain biking, and swimming.
What to Pack
- High SPF sunscreen (UV is intense at altitude)
- Ski goggles with bright/low-light lenses
- Layered clothing (base layer + fleece + ski jacket)
- Sunglasses and hat for après-ski
- Lighter ski pants (or shorts for afternoon sun!)
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