10 Hidden Gem Ski Destinations Around The World

You'll often hear about well-known ski destinations, such as the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps, the Canadian Rockies, the up-and-coming Japan, and Colorado, with its insane number of resorts. These are a few that come immediately to mind. But other locations worldwide boast incredible skiing conditions—this article will share ten hidden ski destinations covering a range of skill levels.

Ski Destinations Around the World

Several popular, well-known ski destinations, such as resorts in the Canadian Rockies, open up sometime in November and remain open until April. Some have a shorter snow span, so it's beneficial for avid snowboarders and skiers to know some hidden ski destinations worldwide. For example, if you're craving powder in the summer, New Zealand or Australia opens up to visitors in June or July!

Ski resorts around the world can range in intensity. Therefore, if you're relatively new to the sport, it's a good idea to research family-friendly resorts or places with slopes tailored more for beginners or medium riders. Meanwhile, others may only want off-piste, thrill-punching slopes.

So, where do you book your next snowy holiday? Take a look at the following more unknown ski destinations around the world.

Jahorina, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Explore the expansive 52.0 km of slopes overlooking layers of mountain tops at the stunning Jahorina resort in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Frequent snowfalls with the help of artificial snow promise powder and ideal skiing conditions— this may have been why they earned the role of host for the Women’s Alpine Women's Winter Olympics in 1984. All levels will enjoy this up-and-coming ski destination. Head here between December and April!

Mt Hotham, Australia

Skiing with the prospect of seeing a kangaroo? Yes, please! Australia may not seem like an ideal ski destination, but it holds onto more snow in its mountains than Switzerland. You’ll find a range of ski destinations around Australia, but we wanted to highlight Mt Hotham. More advanced skiers who are missing the testing terrain in North America or Europe will fill that void on Mt Hotham’s backcountry and side slopes. Beginners and intermediate riders will have an unforgettable time here as well!

Mzaar Kfardebian, Lebanon

Countries around the world have a knack for surprises, don’t they? The latest? Lebanon has six ski resorts! For a good reason, Mzaar Kfardebian typically clings to the top spot of resorts in Lebanon. The powder wonderland sits at 2,645 m, boasting 80.0 km of groomed runs. And one of the best parts? It doesn’t cost an extravagant amount for a quality day gliding through the snowy mountainside. The season runs from December to April!

Brian Head Resort, United States (Utah)

Most skiers visiting or living in Utah flock to Park City Mountain Resorts, and understandably so, as it’s the most extensive ski area in America, with a whopping 300 trails. But if you want a more cozy, charming destination, Brian Head Resort will suit your needs and exceed expectations. Explore 650 hectares spanning two mountains, supported by eight chairlifts. The conditions are usually excellent, thanks to 360 inches of yearly snowfall. Find a broad range of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs here!

Oukaimeden, Morocco

It's uncommon to consider a ski trip when flocking to Morocco, a country more known for its colourful markets and sweeping desert landscape. However, the quality of Oukaimeden will surprise you. Located 2,600.0 km high in the Atlas Mountains, this unlikely ski destination sits just 80.0 km from Marrakech. Oukaimeden is small, with only 10.0 km of slopes, but it offers something for all levels. Beginners will find the most options here! The ski season usually lasts from the start of January until the middle of March.

Silver Star Mountain, Canada (British Columbia)

Revel in expansive yet quaint vibes at Silver Star Mountain in Vernon, BC. Find the “quaint” in the charming ski resort, where fun, family-friendly vibes keep you warm. Whenever you’re bored of skiing, you can enjoy Tube Town or skate and participate in pick-up shinny on the pond. Although Silver Star Mountain is an unforgettable, family-friendly destination, its backside can appeal to more experienced riders seeking a challenge. Find your favourite run across the expansive 115.0 km of slopes complemented by ten lifts. Intermediate skiers will enjoy the range of blue runs covering the mountain - 50.0 km’s worth! Experts have 45.0 km to enjoy, while beginners still have 20.0 km of options.

Gulmarg, India

Experienced riders will love the adrenaline-pumping off-piste slopes tucked into the Himalayas. It’s usually recommended to hit up the rugged backcountry with a guide due to tricky, avalanche-prone terrain. However, beginners and intermediate skiers will also find something for them here!

Julian Alps, Slovenia

Find 140.0 km of slopes spanning Slovenia’s Julian Alps, aided by 85 lifts. Vogel–Bohinj ranks the highest among ski resorts in the area! Unfortunately, experts won’t enjoy this resort. On the other hand, the 22.0 km of slopes will appeal to beginners and intermediate riders. Overall, the Julian Alps boasts exceptional mountainous scenery, hopefully helping distract you from any soreness clenching your muscles after a day riding the snow.

Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand

Missing skiing in July? No worries! *Just* book a ticket to New Zealand’s Mount Ruapehu, a stratovolcano, for entertaining snowy terrain. One resort on Mount Ruapehu, Whakapapa, helps you ease into the day with groomed runs, while more advanced skiers and riders may graduate to the thrill of old crater rims and chutes! The 550 hectares appeal almost evenly to all levels, with intermediate landing the most terrain at 45%. A fun fact? You may be riding atop snow but also on solid lava. The other resort on Mount Ruapehu is Tūroa. The season usually starts in July and ends in October.

Mauna Kea, Hawaii

Start the day by the ocean, go to Mauna Kea for some snow and adrenaline, then kick back and relax at the beach while the sun dips into the horizon. Talk about an epic, memorable day! You can squeeze in this snow-beach combo between December and February. It might be a small window, but it’s worth a try at least once, right? Remember that this isn’t a resort but simply a place to feel the wind slapping your face while you ski or board down the slope. It’s a backcountry destination with hardly any amenities. You will have the option of two lifts, though. Research if this is a ski destination that matches your experience level and take caution!

Which resort stands out to you? If you’ve been to any hidden ski destinations not included on this list, please let us know in the comments below!

Best Adventures Around the World

Looking to experience some of the best adventures around the world, but aren’t keen on hitting the slopes? Check out our series on the best treks around the world and discover your next long-distance adventure!

• 8 Best Treks in Italy
• 10 Best Treks in the Mediterranean
• 8 Best Multi Day Hikes in Iceland
• 10 Best Multi Day Hikes in Canada
• 10 Best Long Distance Hikes in the United States
• 10 Greatest Multi Day Hikes in Europe
• Africa's Best Treks
• 10 Best Long Distance Walks in the UK
• 10 Amazing Treks in Asia
• Australia’s Greatest Thru-Hikes
• 10 Spectacular Long Distance Hikes in New Zealand
• 10 Best Pilgrimage Routes
• 10 Best Treks in the Alps
• 10 Best Treks in France