When the summer heat hits the Northern Hemisphere, it's prime shredding season south of the equator. For snowboarders and skiers looking to keep their edge year-round, a trip to New Zealand, Australia or Chile should be on your bucket list.
New Zealand
This small island nation packs a big punch for winter sports with over 25 ski areas from June through October. The crown jewel is Queenstown on the South Island, home to incredible terrain at resorts like Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona. Treble Cone is a bit farther afield but offers phenomenal off-piste lines. Best airport access is via Queenstown but some areas like Mt Hutt are closer to Christchurch. Lift tickets average $80-120 USD. Queenstown has abundant lodging from hostels to luxury hotels. Check out nzski.com for packages and details.
Australia
You'll find the best Aussie skiing around the southeast at resorts like Thredbo, Perisher, Mt Hotham and more from June through early October. Australia is better known for its beach scene but these resorts get surprising amounts of snowfall and have solid terrain parks and steeps. Most are located in the Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales, about a 5-6 hour drive from Sydney. A week's lift ticket at Thredbo starts around $500 AUD. Stay on-mountain or in Jindabyne town nearby. Snowy.com has the full rundown.
GRWM for Spring Riding - Light Waterproof Jacket
Chile
For a taste of South American powder, Chile is a top pick from June through October. The central region around Santiago has the most well-known resports like Valle Nevado, Portillo and La Parva. You'll find more economical options further south in areas like Nevados de Chillan. Puerto Montt is the main airport hub to access southern resorts while Santiago serves the central areas. Expect to pay $50-80 USD per day for lift tickets at most places. There's incredible freeriding but make sure to go with a guided operation. Lots of solid lodging apps like SkiArricoChile.com can help you plan.
No matter which Southern Hemiresort you pick, get readty for an endless winter of hot laps, park sessions and potential jackpot powder days. Just be sure to bundle up - their summer highs in the 30s/0C can feel downright frosty compared to back home!
Hope see you on the slopes! Shred with Yolo Snow Crew!
