Top 10 Northern Hemisphere Early Season Ski Resorts

The ‘real’ ski season does not really get going until Christmas time in Europe and the USA…..but as the nights draw in and the temperature drops, many of us can’t resist the thought of getting in a few turns before the crowds turn up.

Any mountain area can receive snowfall in the autumn time, but you can’t always guarantee it, and many resorts simply don’t open their lifts before a certain date.

I have compiled my list of 10 ski resorts where you can ski before Christmas. Some of these ski resorts open their ski lifts weeks before Christmas, and can insure snow due to glaciation and/or good artificial snow making facilities.

I have only included one US resort, but if anyone has any others then please do write in and let me know.

Tignes – France
This world renowned ski resort that links up with Val d’Isere is open most of the year for skiing. Because of its altitude, glacier and location it’s always one of the first places to get heavy snow. Great for weekend ski breaks in late November onwards.

Hintertux – Austria
A popular skiing destination for real enthusiasts before the ski season proper starts. A large glacier opens up a multitude of runs for all abilities.

Zermatt – Switzerland
Fantastic scenery, great atmosphere, top class food and a high altitude glacier too. It’s not cheap, but it’s a wonderful place to hang out in the early winter.

Lillehammer – Norway
Maybe not an obvious choice but this part of Norway often opens its doors for skiing in early October! It’s quiet then and the nights have not fully drawn in. You need to check the snow reports, as there’s no glacier here, but it’s so far north you shouldn’t have to worry.

Utah – USA
The high altitude rocky mountains provide early winter conditions and Utah is well positioned to take advantage of Autumn (Fall) storms.

Verbier – Switzerland
Pretty snow sure early on although not reliant on glacier skiing. The high altitude helps. Don’t go before the start of December, but the lead up to Christmas is often snowy. If not there’s always a party on somewhere.

Val Thorens – France
Very high altitude European skiing in the purpose built village linked into the 3 Vallees ski region. Often possible to ski in November.

Kaprun – Austria
Another Austrian early season favourite on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. You can ski here all year around. According to their website it is mountain adventure at its most mighty.

Passo Tonale – Italy
One of a few places in the Italian Alps geared up for early season skiing. You can ski on the Presena glacier from late autumn onwards….and eat Italian food too!

Aviemore – Scotland
Well, you never know, sometimes it snows in November and they open the lifts. When they do, just go up there and enjoy it.