A Quick Guide to Argentina's Ski Resorts
Ski the Andes from Mendoza to Tierra Del Fuego, Via Bariloche
Jul 23, 2009
Although plagued by notoriously short ski seasons, Argentina still provides an overwhelming combination of ski culture, terrain and resorts to explore from June to September.
Conditions are often similar to spring skiing in the northern hemisphere, but the final 10 days of July normally delivers a cold front that brings nearly endless powder to the area's southern slopes. By September, the famous Santa Rosa storm normally drops the final measurable snowfall of the season.
Where to Ski on a Family Vacation in PatagoniaLocated outside the luxurious and expensive resort town of San Martin de los Andes, Chappelco Ski Resort, often gets overlooked by visiting foreigners. Extensive terrain, including good tree skiing and a well-maintained terrain park keep everyone busy. The World Cup will visit Chappelco in 2009, bringing the season’s first FIS Snowboarding event to Patagonia. Other events include the Continental Cup and Freestyle week.
Cerro Bayo Boutique Ski Resort, located in Villa Angostura, was purpose built from the ground up by European developers. Mountain side dining, professional ski schools and panoramic views over Lago Nahuel Huapi nearly overshadow the terrain. Although the 12 lifts access mostly intermediate terrain, backcountry options provide great open powder turns.The world’s southern-most ski resort, Cerro Castor, towers above the Beagle Channel. Its southern location insures stable temperatures, consistent snow quality and long seasons that often stretch into October. Modern Lifts and extensive back country options round out the southern experience for skiers visiting the austral city of Ushuaia.
Where to Ski Big Terrain in Argentina
Without a doubt, Las Leñas is Argentina’s most famous ski resort among North American visitors. This fully developed resort is remotely located outside of Malargue, but features a full-service village at its base. Thirteen lifts keep skiers moving without lining up. The infamous Marte chair takes expert skiers into some of the best lift accessed steep powder skiing in the world.
Located close to the city of Bariloche, visitors can save money while skiing some of the country’s best snow at Cerro Cathedral. Nineteen lifts access limitless terrain for all abilities. Tree skiing, side-country terrain and the nearby Refugio Frey offers expert skiers limitless access to big terrain.
Little more than a local mountain for Mendocinos, Penitentes offers surprisingly steep terrain. Of 25 named slopes, 17 are rated either advanced or difficult (black diamond or double-black diamond). Four lifts access the mountain, while three more keep beginners loading quickly on the lower slopes. make sure to visit on a powder day or expect to venture into the little-visited side-country terrain for fresh snow.
Where to Ski Backcountry Terrain in Argentina
La Hoya, located in central Patagonia near Esquel, receives more snow than any other ski area in Argentina. Nine lifts access a modest selection of marked trails but the area’s true gem is its outstanding backcountry. Its an excellent choice for die-hard powder fanatics that will seek out hidden lines in the nearby backcountry
The small resort of Cavaihue, located in Neuquen, is gaining popularity due to its combination of thermal hot springs, ski area and small crowds. Skiers and snowboarders will find intermediate and advance terrain within the area’s boundaries. Outstanding backcountry, including climbing to the volcanic crater offers endless opportunities for experienced skiers.
 |
 |
 |
