The end of the ski season is almost upon us. With April coming to an end, resorts across Europe and North America are entering their final weeks of operation.

Slopes are relatively empty and lift queues virtually non-existent at this time of year, as casual skiers and boarders rarely risk the unpredictable conditions of late season.

While some of the world’s top resorts have closed – namely Winter Park in Colorado, Killington in Vermont, Flaine in France and Lech, Zurs and St. Anton in Austria – some fantastic conditions can still be found well into spring. In fact, thanks to several recent fresh snowfalls, many of the world’s top resorts are finishing their seasons on a high.

With slope conditions in great shape and hotel prices dropping to bargain levels, there’s no better time for a winter sport break. Here’s our roundup of the resorts where you can carve the slopes by day and tear up the town by night through April and beyond.

Tignes, France

The highest of Alpine resorts, few can match Tignes for late season snow quality. The layout of the resort means that there will be at least one run with ideal conditions all day.

Lake Louise, Canada

Unlike resorts further south, temperatures hover around freezing at the bottom of the mountain at this relatively small Canadian ski resort, meaning lifts don’t close until the end of April here.

Hintertux, Austria

The steep Hintertux glacier-based slopes hold snow as well as any place. With a limited variety of runs, Hinterlux is best as a short-break destination.

Val Thorens, France

Conditions remain excellent here at Europe’s highest ski village. While much of the Three Valleys has turned to slush, the famous Combe de Caron remains in great shape.

Banff, Canada

Banff National Park, an hour and half west of Calgary, boasts a high base area that ensures great sunny skiing well into May.

Mammoth Mountain, California

Skiing often continues here into mid-June thanks to several high alpine bowls. Popular with freestyle riders, each spring the resort builds a halfpipe higher up the mountain.

Ischgl, Austria

Austria’s high alpine luxury ski resort is famous for its legendary end-of-season party. Mariah Carey will perform at this year’s bash on April 30. Entry is free with a ski pass.

Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…

(Image: girolame)

Brett Ackroyd (580 Posts)

Travel writer for Hg2 | A Hedonist's guide to...™ and contributor to Cheapflights Travel Blogs.

ski tourism, Skiing, winter sports