For most people, skiing is synonymous with winter—snowy slopes, alpine lodges, and frost-kissed landscapes. But what if you crave fresh turns in the middle of summer? If you’re an avid skier or snowboarder unwilling to let the seasons dictate your stoke, August skiing offers a unique and adventurous opportunity to experience snow sports in breathtaking, often exotic, settings.
Skiing in August may sound counterintuitive in the Northern Hemisphere, but thanks to glacial resorts, high-altitude terrain, and Southern Hemisphere ski seasons, there are still plenty of options for powder-hungry skiers. From the Andes in South America to the Southern Alps of New Zealand and the glaciers of Europe, August becomes a playground for those who refuse to hang up their gear.
This guide explores the best skiing destinations in August, providing insights into the conditions, terrain, accessibility, and what makes each location special.
Why Ski in August?
1. Off-Season Advantage
August skiing means fewer crowds, unique cultural experiences, and the chance to explore diverse terrain without peak-season prices. It’s also an ideal time for ski training camps, pros prepping for the winter circuit, or simply extending your ski calendar to all 12 months.
2. Global Ski Culture
Summer skiing introduces you to new regions and hemispheres, broadening your perspective on snow sports. Whether it’s powder in Patagonia or glacier laps in Austria, skiing in August brings a multicultural and often rugged flair to your adventures.
Top Places to Go Skiing in August
1. Valle Nevado, Chile
- Location: Andes Mountains, 90 minutes from Santiago
- Season: June to early October
- Altitude: Base elevation 9,925 ft (3,025 m)
Valle Nevado is one of the most famous ski resorts in South America and a top destination for skiing in August. Located in the Chilean Andes, this high-altitude resort offers reliable snowfall, modern lifts, and access to some of the best terrain in the Southern Hemisphere.
Highlights:
Excellent powder conditions in mid to late August.
Interconnects with El Colorado and La Parva, forming the “Tres Valles” ski area.
Ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers.
Ski-in/ski-out lodging and heli-skiing options.
2. Portillo, Chile
- Location: Near the border with Argentina
- Season: Late June through September
- Altitude: Base at 9,350 ft (2,850 m)
Portillo is legendary among ski purists and pros. With just one hotel and a ski culture that focuses on quality over quantity, Portillo delivers a serene, almost mystical alpine experience.
Highlights:
Iconic views of Laguna del Inca.
No lift lines; capped guest numbers ensure exclusivity.
Steep chutes and off-piste opportunities for experts.
Hosts international ski teams for training camps.
3. Cerro Catedral (Bariloche), Argentina
- Location: Patagonia, near San Carlos de Bariloche
- Season: June to late September
- Altitude: 3,380–7,740 ft (1,030–2,360 m)
Cerro Catedral is the largest lift-accessed ski resort in South America, located in the picturesque Lake District of Patagonia.
It offers varied terrain, stunning lake views, and the bustling town of Bariloche for post-skiing fun.
Highlights:
Over 75 runs across diverse terrain.
Legendary Patagonian backcountry skiing.
Lively après-ski scene and local cuisine.
Family-friendly with extensive beginner zones.
4. Treble Cone, New Zealand
- Location: South Island, near Wanaka
- Season: Late June through early October
- Altitude: 4,361 ft (1,329 m)
Treble Cone is renowned for its expansive terrain and breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. The resort is a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Highlights:
Longest vertical in New Zealand.
Natural halfpipes and off-piste areas.
Beautifully groomed runs and open bowls.
Proximity to Queenstown and Wanaka for dining and nightlife.
5. The Remarkables, New Zealand
- Location: 45 minutes from Queenstown
- Season: June to early October
- Altitude: 5,249 ft (1,600 m)
The Remarkables are just that—remarkable. A stunning backdrop and varied terrain make this resort a standout for all levels of skiers.
Highlights:
Wide-open slopes and designated beginner zones.
Fun terrain parks and freestyle features.
Easily accessible from Queenstown.
Popular with families and first-timers.
6. Perisher, Australia
- Location: Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
- Season: June to early October
- Altitude: 5,390–6,739 ft (1,643–2,054 m)
Perisher is Australia’s largest ski resort, and one of the most accessible for travelers from Sydney and Canberra. August typically delivers the best snow conditions of the season.
Highlights:
47 lifts across four interconnected ski areas.
Snow parks, night skiing, and events.
Broad range of terrain from beginner to expert.
Covered by the Epic Pass.
7. Zermatt, Switzerland (The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise)
- Location: Swiss Alps
- Season: Year-round (glacier skiing)
- Altitude: Up to 12,791 ft (3,899 m)
Zermatt offers some of the highest skiing in Europe—365 days a year. Its glacier area, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, is the ultimate summer destination for skiing in the Northern Hemisphere.
Highlights:
Panoramic views of the Matterhorn.
Well-groomed glacier runs ideal for intermediate skiers.
Home to international race training and camps.
Combine skiing with alpine hiking and climbing.
8. Hintertux Glacier, Austria
- Location: Zillertal Valley, Tyrol
- Season: Year-round
- Altitude: Up to 10,660 ft (3,250 m)
Another Northern Hemisphere gem, Hintertux is one of the only European resorts with 100% year-round lift access. It offers impressive terrain and reliable summer skiing conditions even in August.
Highlights:
12 miles (20 km) of slopes in summer.
Funpark for freestyle enthusiasts.
Ideal for morning skiing followed by Tyrolean spa time.
Great for technical training and ski racing camps.
Things to Consider When Skiing in August
1. Weather and Snow Conditions
Snow in August can vary significantly depending on the region. Southern Hemisphere destinations typically experience mid-season conditions during August, while glacier skiing in the Northern Hemisphere may mean firm, icy mornings and softening afternoons.
Timing your ski sessions for optimal conditions is key—early mornings for glaciers and mid-morning to early afternoon for resorts in Chile or New Zealand.
2. Altitude and UV Exposure
Skiing at high altitudes, especially in places like Zermatt or Valle Nevado, means stronger UV exposure and lower oxygen levels. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, hydrate often, and pace yourself if you’re not acclimatized to elevation.
3. Equipment Considerations
Snow conditions in August can be unpredictable. It’s a good idea to:
Bring all-weather wax for your skis.
Consider renting gear locally if traveling long distances.
Pack layers for varying temps—mornings can be cold, afternoons warm.
August Skiing Travel Tips
Plan in advance: Flights to South America or New Zealand can book out quickly during the Southern Hemisphere winter.
Check visa and COVID/travel requirements, especially for remote areas.
Bundle your trip with other activities: hiking, mountain biking, wine tasting, and hot springs are popular add-ons in many ski regions.
Travel insurance is a must for extreme sports and international trips.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering where to go skiing in August, the answer is far broader than you might expect. From the jagged peaks of Patagonia to the pristine glaciers of the Alps and the adventure-filled slopes of New Zealand, the global ski community doesn’t hibernate in summer—it just relocates.
August skiing isn’t just about keeping your edge sharp or checking off a novelty—it’s about discovery. It’s a chance to explore snow in places where culture, scenery, and adrenaline meet in unexpected and unforgettable ways.