Originally a utilitarian means of transport, skiing has a history spanning several millennia, and has grown to become a winter sport practiced all around the world. Here are five unexpected places where you can hit the slopes for your next ski adventure.
Ski Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Yes, you can get a world-class skiing experience right in the middle of the desert. Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort housed inside the Mall of the Emirates, featuring five runs on an 85-meter-high slope, one of which is the world’s first indoor black diamond run.
© Nihonjapan | Dreamstime
Mauna Kea, Hawai’i
Even Hawai’i gets snow from time to time, though not enough to garner a ski resort. That means there’s no lifts, trails or even ski patrol, so these runs are best left for the experts. The snow can have a strange texture and since it’s on a volcano, there’s no vegetation underneath, just volcanic rock.
© Swarandeepsingh | Dreamstime
Gulmarg, Kashmir, India
If you like Mauna Kea, you’ll love Gulmarg in northern India, the biggest ski resort of the Himalayas with more than 1,500 meters of vertical. Back-country snowboarders swear by the terrain, locally called “curry powder,” though only experts should venture here, as the area has spotty electricity, intermittent ski patrol and is prone to avalanches.
© Abaconda | Flickr
Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand
You might recognize this mountain as Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings films. Mount Ruapehu, an active volcano that last erupted in 2007, is made up of two ski resorts: Whakapapa on the northwest side and Turoa on the southwestern side, which is serviced by Happy Valley, a facility built specifically for beginners.
Woodward, Copper Mountain, Colo.
Sibling to Pennsylvania’s Camp Woodward, Woodward Copper is an extreme sports training ground built for year-round action. The complex has great ski run, but what makes this place such a draw is its facilities for skateboarding, BMX, slopestyle and mountain biking, all of which are available for kids and adults alike.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Feb 4, 2025First Alila-Branded Resort Coming to Latin America, Caribbean
Hyatt Hotels and RLH Properties plan to transform and rebrand Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya to Alila Mayakoba, marking Alila’s debut in the Caribbean and Latin America. Andaz Mayakoba will close this March and debut as Alila Mayakoba later this year.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Slideshow
Feb 4, 20256 Must-See Sites in Bologna, Italy
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are six must-see sites in Bologna, Italy.
Dining/Entertainment
Feb 4, 2025World’s First Underwater Nikkei Dining Experience Comes to Niyama Private Islands Maldives
Subsix at Niyama Private Islands Maldives, set half a kilometer out to sea and 6 meters below the sea’s surface, has been the setting for many novel experiences, like midnight glow parties and more, since its opening more than a decade ago. And now, the restaurant and resort proudly unveil another first as Subsix unveils a new Nikkei tasting menu that blends Japanese tradition with Peruvian boldness. Subsix is surrounded by a wall of glass.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Destinations / North America
Feb 3, 2025What to Do This February in Massachusetts
If you’re visiting the heart of Massachusetts this month — which includes MetroWest Boston, Greater Worcester and North Central Massachusetts — you won’t want for things to do.
ShareThis