Where to Ride Fresh Powder

The flood of tourists that come every season can sometimes alter your experience at your favorite ski resort. If you’re looking for somewhere more remote and wild, check out these seven spots for fresh powder.

© Tom Dowd | Dreamstime

Alyeska, Alaska

While the resort isn’t big, Alyeska makes up for it with a long winter season, minimal crowds and snowcat and helicopter service, as well as one of the highest measured snowfalls in the world at an average of 650 inches.

© Soren Egeberg | Dreamstime

Portillo, Chile

In 1966, Portillo became the first place in South America to host the World Skiing Championships, introducing the ski and snowboard world to a whole new continent of untouched powder.

© Justek16 | Dreamstime

Whistler, Canada

Whistler is consistently one of the best places to ski in the world thanks to its high amount of snowfall (470 inches), large area of natural terrain and a great resort for relaxing between runs. The snow is usually light and dry, perfect conditions for powder hounds.

© Julia Kuznetsova | Dreamstime

St Anton, Austria

Tirol is a huge area filled with ski resorts, the most famous of which is St Anton with more powder runs than you’ll be able to ride. Beginners can even hire one of the ski school’s off-piste guides before heading into town for St Anton’s lively nightlife.

© Neil Denize | Dreamstime

Niseko, Japan

Located on Hokkaido, Niseko doesn’t have very difficult terrain, but it does get a lot of dry snow from Siberia, making it one of the best places in the world for powder runs. The resort even allows off-piste access within the grounds and has gates to access the backcountry.

© Lijuan Guo | Dreamstime

Mt. Baker, Wash.

Mt. Baker holds the record for the highest recorded snowfall in a single season, measuring at 1,140 inches for 1988–89. The resort isn’t big, and it’s become popular among the locals, but Mt. Baker is a staple for American powder riders.

© Soren Egeberg | Dreamstime

La Grave, France

While Europe is full of powder destinations, La Grave developed a cult status among riders who look for the most adrenaline-inducing runs. True to its name, La Grave has no trails, minimal infrastructure and some truly hardcore terrain.