These 12 Snowboarding Destinations Are So Epic, You’ll Never Want To Leave the Slopes
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These snowboarding destinations are a dream come true for snow lovers, offering everything from powder-filled slopes to breathtaking alpine views.
Did you know that Whistler Blackcomb sees an average snowfall of 426 inches (10.8 meters) a year? Or that Niseko in Japan is famous for its light, fluffy powder and après-ski hot springs?
Each of these resorts was chosen for its epic runs, world-class amenities, and unique charm. Whether you’re chasing thrilling terrain in the Rockies or perfecting your turns in the Alps, these destinations will have you counting down the days until your next ride.
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Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan
Niseko is a dream destination for any snowboarder. The region has some of the best snow in the world and plenty of runs that feel like a video game.
At its heart is the Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Ski Area, which attracts snowboarders from around the world due to its incredible runs. Three other epic resorts surround Mt. Niseko-Annupuri, offering everything for extreme athletes and beginners.
Besides the challenging runs and incredible snow, the area has amazing natural scenery and culture. You can stay in Japanese temple-like buildings at the base of the mountain and dip into hot springs. Niseko can’t be beaten for snowboarders looking for adrenaline-pumping thrills and beautiful nature.
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Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Whistler Blackcomb in Whistler, Canada, is one of North America’s premier destinations for extreme snowboarding and perfect snow. You’ll get to choose between dozens of epic runs, running from advanced to intermediate.
Choose between several lifts that take you to the top of the mountain. There are almost 200 trails to choose from, each with its unique highlights and challenges.
On top of its runs, the resort is home to beautiful views and amenities for every winter sports fan. If you love the finer things in life, aka après-ski, then this destination is at the top of the world. There are nightclubs, bars, breweries, and endless activities that may stretch into the morning. Go to Coast Mountain Brewing for their red ale.
Read also: Top US Cities for Winter Landscapes
Tignes Station de Ski, France
Tignes Station de Ski is for serious snowboarders only, with average snowfall of 263 inches (670cm) per year. It is widely considered one of Europe’s most challenging spots for taking flight and carving snow.
You’ll get to choose from a massive array of trails and runs. There are endless mumps, forest runs, and towering peaks where you’ll get endless air.
Don’t worry if you’re not a pro. The resort still has plenty for beginners and intermediates to enjoy. And if you’re tired, you’ll find all the entertainment, delicious food, and company you could want. Try Le Panoramic at the exit of the Brevent Cable Car at 10,830 feet (3,300 meters) for delicious food and views of the mountains.
Read also: Must-Visit Winter Destinations in Europe
Les Trois Vallées, France
Les Trois Vallées is one of Europe’s most revered destinations for extreme snowboarding. With over seven resorts and hundreds of ski lifts, it’s one of the world’s largest ski and snowboard destinations.
Starting at the resorts Val Thorens, Courchevel, and Méribel, you’ll climb the mountain and see endless runs. From halfpipes to huge drops, the world’s best snowboarders soar around you.
When you’re done taking on the intense runs, you can drop everything and watch the action. Or, head back to the resorts for traditional French cuisine with views of the Alps. Just remember to breathe; you’ll be sitting over 3,608ft (1,100m) high.
Read also: Beautiful European Towns With Winter Landscapes
Paridiski, France
Paridiski is another European destination perfect for snowboarders. It has dozens of world-class runs that range from extreme to family-friendly. It’s also located in one of Europe’s most beautiful winter sports regions.
You can take the massive Vanoise Express cable car to your favorite runs. After snowboarding throughout the day, you can rest in one of the town’s most famous resorts. You can choose between the renowned Les Arcs or La Plagne for an unforgettable experience.
Besides the epic snow and conditions, the town hosts plenty of activities and events for every winter sports enthusiast. Bring your cameras because this destination is worth documenting.
Read also: Top-Rated European Cities for Winter Vacation
St Moritz, Switzerland
St Moritz is one of Europe’s premier snowboard destinations, especially if you’re looking for luxury. You’ll experience endless resorts with all the amenities you could want. Plus, the surrounding mountains have endless runs for beginners to advanced snowboarders.
The town hosted the Winter Olympics twice, and for good reason. There are almost 90 slopes, each with varying challenges and thrills. For snowboarders, there’s no limit to the variety in St Moritz.
If you visit in April, try checking out the popular SunIce Festival. Here, some of the world’s best snowboarders come to the party. You may meet Olympic royalty or even actual royalty!
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Park City Mountain, Utah, USA
Park City Mountain is one of the US’ most popular snowboarding destinations. With endless runs and trails, snowboarders of all levels will find what they’re looking for, with 287 inches (7.3 meters) of average snowfall yearly.
There are steep runs that take snowboarders on the ride of their lives. There are jumps, halfpipes, and pretty much anything you could imagine. Park City Mountain is always making it in official snowboard clips and films.
After taking on the slopes, you’ll have the entire community of Park City to party with. From festivals and events to epic restaurants and bars, it’s one of the best destinations for winter fun.
Read also: Top-Rated Winter Mountain Breaks in the US
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, Oregon, USA
Mt. Bachelor is a massive volcano with some of the world’s best runs for snowboarders. The Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort features plenty of lifts that take you up the mountain. When you arrive, you’ll stare down at an endless amount of heart-pounding runs below you.
Snowboarders get to race down perfect powder snow, giving the experience of surfing. You’ll be surrounded by pristine alpine forests and views that make you want to take a selfie.
This off-path resort is for snowboarders who want to get away from the party. If you love nature, quiet, and non-stop thrills that push your limits, this destination is for you.
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Kitzsteinhorn, Austria
Kitzsteinhorn is a giant mountain and glacier run with endlessly perfect snow. It’s one of the best places in the world for snowboarders looking for speed and thrills.
For snowboarders who love tricks, it can’t be beaten. You’ll get halfpipes, rails, jumps, and kickers that will push your limits.
Outside of snowboarding, the area has the Gipfelwelt 3000 observation deck. Here, you’ll get to dine in style with one of the best alpine views around.
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Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Canada
Revelstoke Mountain Resort is an incredible destination in the Canadian Rockies. You’ll have endless runs to choose from, from beginner-friendly to advanced.
The resort has one of the world’s longest descents, covering over a mile. If you love cruising non-stop in perfect snow, you’ll marvel at this heart-pounding run. After snowboarding, the town is great for exploring and enjoying other winter sports.
There are plenty of lodges and resorts to choose from, from luxurious stays to rustic options. Stay at the highly rated Sutton Place Hotel to finish your day in a hot tub and a pool.
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Rusutsu Resort, Hokkaido, Japan
Rusutsu Resort is known for having some of the world’s best snow. Similar to nearby Niseko, it features endless runs, perfect snow, and views of the Mount Yōtei volcano.
You can maneuver through forests and dramatic drops. There’s almost an endless amount of trails that are perfect for every level.
Besides the perfect snow and runs, the resort area hosts plenty of events and fun parties. Snowboarding is a cultural phenomenon in Japan, and Rusutsu is ground zero. Stay at Rusutsu Resort and enjoy the onsen (hot spring) with views of the mountains.
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Laax, Switzerland
Laax is a European snowboard destination that attracts the world’s top talent. It features one of the world’s largest halfpipes, 656 feet long, 72 feet wide, and almost 23 feet high.
Several jumps and other challenges complement the extreme runs. Endless trails are also available for intermediate riders and beginners.
At the base of the mountain, the resort features plenty of places to stay in luxury. From great restaurants and cafes to annual events, there are plenty of reasons to stay for days. Go to Ustria Lags for their tagliolini with beef and a great lake view.
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