In the U.S., hitting the ski slopes this time of year is more like taking a nature hike or jumping on a bike trail with the snow long gone in most spots. But you can still get a ski trip in at some of these spots where snow is plentiful and winter will be in full swing. 

We often talk about the Andes Mountains when we talk about winter storms this time of the year. So we’ll start there, then jump across the Pacific for the kiwi slopes. 

 Chile and Argentina are renowned for big snowstorms and bigger ski resorts. Plan a week at the resorts or easily move from one to another. You can fly into Buenos Aires, Santiago or Patagonia. 

The U.S. Ski Team trains in Portillo, Chile, meaning this resort might be more for intermediate or expert-level skiers. But the resort claims to be a family-friendly venue for all experience levels.  To get there, fly into Santiago, Chile, and plan for a two-hour drive into the Andes. Portillo hosts steep slopes and a classic lodge feeling during your stay. 

Nevados de Chillán and Valle Nevado are also within two hours of Santiago and may have nicer weather and easier terrain. Nevados de Chillán hosts a bonus as a unique volcanic ski resort with unreal views. 

In Argentina, Cerro Catedral is a short drive from Bariloche and is the biggest resort in the country. This is a family-friendly resort with plentiful lake and mountain views. Nearly 60 ski slopes, ranging from beginner to expert level, are served by more than two dozen lifts. 

Point your skis at Cerro Castor, Argentina, if you’re itching for the slopes before the American resorts open up. This cold location offers reliable late (for South America) skiing, often into September.

Across the Pacific, New Zealand has some beautiful resorts and Australia has some hidden gems. The South Island of New Zealand is an outdoor person’s dream, and that definitely is true for the slopes, too. 

Coronet Peak and The Remarkables are a quick trip from Queenstown and offer skiing, sledding and snowboarding for all ages and experience levels. Coronet Peak will be opening early this year, in late May, with the help of some snowmakers. The views alone are worth the trip. 

Cardrona and Treble Cone offer a variety of slopes for different experience levels. If you’re looking for a challenge, lean toward Treble Cone. 

There are a few ski resorts in Victoria and New South Wales, Australia, but they will require a bit more effort to get to. 

The Perisher in New South Wales is the southern hemisphere’s largest ski resort, but it is about a 6-hour drive from Sydney. You’ll find something you like on the ski resort’s 100 slopes. 

Thredbo and Falls Creek are two other notable ski resorts down under.

Other tips and tricks: 

• If you’re heading to the Andes, plan a night before and after your trip in a nearby town to acclimate to the elevation, which is likely higher than you’re used to. Many of the slopes are above 9,000 feet. 
• Plan your trips later in the American summer (July, August vs. June) to allow snowpack to build up. 
• Both continents can feature some wild weather. Plan for a day or two when the weather won’t support outside activities. Pacific storms crashing into South America can limit visibility, and these moisture-laden storms can lead to avalanches later in the season. In New Zealand, strong winds from the Southern Ocean can create dangerous conditions. 
• If you’re not a fan of man-made snow, Australia might not be the best spot for you until August, when natural snow tends to be the best. 
• Many U.S. airlines treat skis/boards as a standard checked bag.
• Check for local holidays and events before you book. As with any U.S. resort, there are weeks when crowds can soar.