The Best Ski Resorts for Experts

Whether you’re in a mixed-ability group or planning an off-the-grid adventure with your most fearless friends, these resorts will deliver all you can dream of (and more!).

Think heart-racing descents, wide-open bowls, and lift-accessed freeride terrain that stays raw, wild, and wonderfully untamed.

Of course, expert terrain isn’t just about confidence; it’s about being prepared. If you’re backcountry-ready or want to heli-ski, we’ll help you find trusted local guides who’ll make sure your wildest days on the mountain are as safe as they are unforgettable.

At Ski Safari, we’ve skied or boarded every resort we offer, and our recommendations are powered by first-hand experience and real feedback from riders like you.

If your mantra is 'go big or go home', our custom ski safaris combine multiple resorts, cities and attractions on one trip to ensure you get the most out of your time away.

Contact our friendly team on 01273 224060 or enquire online, and we’ll tailor your next big mountain adventure from start to finish so that it is fierce and full of stories you’ll be telling for years.

Home to incredible scenery, superb snow and diverse terrain - not to mention some of the world’s best ski resorts - Canada is a great choice for any expert. 

The dramatic Rocky Mountains in British Columbia (BC) and Alberta offer excellent terrain to keep you coming back for more and more, year after year.

Our Sales Manager Andy Knights says, “Over the years, my hunt for powder has taken me all over the world. Again and again, I return to where it all began: Canada. Powder here is as reliable as rain at Wimbledon, and nowhere else combines accessibility, terrain, and snowfall quite like it.”

After all, we credit Ski Safari’s very existence to the immense skiing in Canada. While chasing powder here in 1996, founder Richard Rice was inspired to create our tailored ski holiday service, and we’ve been sending UK skiers and boarders here ever since.

Terrain: 25% advanced / 55% intermediate / 20% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: Whistler Bowl, Cockalorum, Gun Barrels

For experts seeking the ultimate challenge, Whistler, North America’s largest ski resort, stands as Canada’s all-round showstopper. With over 8,000 acres, Whistler is spread across 16 alpine bowls, three glaciers and two legendary mountains. With the help of the magnificent PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, Whistler delivers fast access to some of the most advanced ski terrain in North America.

Whistler’s sheer size is especially appealing to expert skiers and boarders who are part of mixed-ability groups, as you won’t need to holiday separately. Test your legs on Double Black Diamond chutes and bowls or the legendary 11 km Peak to Creek descent, before meeting up with your group for lunch.

Sales Specialist Alec regularly recommends Whistler to experts, and says, “The short walk up to Spanky’s Ladder on Blackcomb opens up the Gemstone Bowls (Sapphire is considered the most challenging with steep technical lines) - an off-piste playground requiring expert skill, good visibility and proper gear. For an adrenaline rush, take on the Couloir Extreme, known for its daunting pitch and thrilling speed.”

Whistler is also perfect for those looking to add a day or two of touring to your ski holiday. Richard says, “For those familiar with skinning up in the backcountry, gear and guides are available in the village, and gates at the top of both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains make accessing the terrain incredibly easy. A trip for a night out in the wilderness at the Kees and Claire hut is highly recommended!”

Alternatively, venture into the beautiful BC backcountry with Whistler Heli-Ski to access a skiable area over five times the size of the Isle of Wight! With experienced guides, you’ll have unrivalled access to the region’s most iconic mountains and dramatic glaciers. Plus, with providers like Extremely Canadian, you can explore the best terrain Whistler Blackcomb has to offer.

Whistler can be combined with Sun Peaks on our Whistler Peaks Ski Safari, or why not combine Whistler with a city break, as seen on our Whistler & Reykjavik and Whistler and Vancouver Ski & City Safari.

10 nights in Whistler including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £1,200 and £2,600 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult Whistler Blackcomb lift pass costs between £570 and £674.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“Fabulous resort, great skiing, loads of choice of terrain, easy dining options, friendly staff, the Epic Pass was well worth it.” - Jessica Wright

“Whistler has everything you need for a superb winter holiday - great location, superb facilities, wonderful snow, huge area and variety of terrain, happy, friendly locals and staff, multiple activities, restaurants, shops, good value for money. Unbeatable!” - Andrew Green

Terrain: 49% advanced / 34% intermediate / 17% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: Powder Fields, drop off Buffalo Ridge down Sarra’s Chute and High Spirits

Go bigger this ski season and double up on adventure by hitting two hardcore resorts in one trip, RED Mountain Resort and Whitewater. Both resorts are located on the famous ‘Powder Highway’ in the Selkirk Mountains, and are catered to a specific type of expert - those seeking serious, challenging terrain rather than a well-rounded resort experience. It’s all about no-nonsense, full-throttle skiing from first lift to last - all day, every day.

As Canada’s fourth largest ski resort, RED Mountain spans nearly 3,850 acres across four mountains - Red, Granite, Grey and Kirkup - offering everything from steep glades to challenging fall-line descents.

Based in the resort, Big Red Cats is definitely up there as one of the best and largest cat ski operators in the world - spanning across 8 peaks and 20,000 acres!

Expect reliable powder, natural features for playful runs and protection from wind. Expert skiers chasing big jumps and drops should aim for Uber-Expert level tracks.

Powder terrain is only accessible by cat-skiing on Mount Kirkup. RED’s pay-per-run cat skiing (where you’ll ride in the spacious cabin of a snowcat and ride up the heavy snow of Mount Kirkup) is a fantastic and truly unique way to access incredible skiing - no reservation required as this runs on a first-come-first-served basis.

Expert skiers visiting RED typically combine their holiday with a visit to nearby ski resorts, Whitewater or Schweitzer. Just down the road, and towered over by the iconic Ymir Peak, Whitewater receives over 12 metres (40 feet) of snowfall, where the lift-accessed backcountry is a dream for ski tourers and off-piste riders seeking a challenge and empty runs.

Canada & USA Product Manager Rupert says, “If you are looking for hardcore skiing, then you will not go far wrong with these two resorts. Just an hour apart, they offer some of the most exhilarating and varied expert skiing in Canada. While a little harder to get to than other popular resorts, RED and Whitewater will reward you with authentic, challenging terrain and deep, uncrowded powder. It is Big Mountain skiing at its best - vast open terrain, tree skiing, chutes, steep bowls, glades, and lots and lots of powder…”

Alternatively, our 49th Parallel North Ski Safari combines RED with four days of skiing Schweitzer’s endless powder and impressive 6000 ft ridge line providing views of Lake Pend Oreille.

10 nights in either RED including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £2250 to £3100 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult lift pass costs between £790 - £823.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“The feeling of isolation [in Whitewater] is quite amazing for being only a few minutes out of Nelson. No phone signal or site of habitation (other than the ski resort infrastructure) gives the feeling of being well off the beaten track. The skiing is fantastic and varied, and in a unique location.” - Chris Cookson

“RED is a stunning ski area! Don’t be put off by the apparent small area and lack of vertical; this place will blow your mind. We skied seven days and never did the same line twice. Endless trees, chutes and bowls.” - Ed Passey

Terrain: 60% advanced / 20% intermediate / 20% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: Dutch Wallet (CPR Ridge), Truth & Dare (Terminator 1 North Ridge), It’s a Ten

Nestled in the Purcell Mountains of British Columbia, Kicking Horse is famous for its steep chutes, exposed ridgelines and vast alpine bowls that seem to stretch forever.

With over 85 marked lines dropping from four main ridges, it’s no wonder Kicking Horse has earned cult status among advanced skiers and riders who thrive on technical descents.

Andy Knights says, “On my fifth visit, I had one of my most memorable runs of all time thanks to my former coach, Canadian snowboard legend Charles ‘Chucky' Gerrard. Now a full-time heli-ski guide, he greeted me at Kicking Horse's Big Mountain Centre with a grin, and a rope slung over his shoulder. Moments later, we were rappelling into Dutch Wallet. Legs shaking, heart racing, we completed one of my top-five runs ever.”

Voted the Best Resort for Off-Piste at Snomad’s Ski Resort Awards 2025, Kicking Horse draws experts to its vast, untouched terrain. The Big Mountain Centre (BMC) offers guided experiences that open up the mountain’s hidden gems - from secret powder stashes to steep chutes. Their inbounds guiding lets skiers explore safely and confidently, making the most of Kicking Horse’s legendary big-mountain terrain.

10 nights in Kicking Horse including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £2100 to £2400 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult lift pass costs between £788 - £1037.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“Wild, mind-blowing ski area full of the craziest chutes (Couloirs), alpine bowls and tree skiing that you can ever imagine. You'll need a guide to get the most out of Kicking Horse, as most of it looks way too gnarly to drop into, but is great when you're in. Don't miss the hike up to the Ozone - the ride down is one you'll remember forever.” - James Howells

Terrain: 45% advanced / 43% intermediate / 12% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: Critical Glades, Meet the Neighbors & Parachute (North Bowl), Aspen Glades

With the highest vertical drop and most runs graded black or double black in North America, Revelstoke’s endless tree runs range from playful glades to steep, technical lines that challenge even the most experienced skiers and boarders. Revelstoke (Revy) is a no-frills, powder-focused resort, where venturing away from the main lifts will reward you with untouched bowls. So it’s no surprise to us that Revelstoke was voted Snomad’s Best Resort for Powder Skiing 2025!

In addition to Kicking Horse, Andy Knights believes Revy is the dream destination for advanced skiers and snowboarders. He says, “Revy averages a massive 10.5 metres of snow annually, yet it remains far less crowded than Banff or Whistler due to its more remote location. Think of it as a “mini-Whistler”, but with drier snow, thanks to its unique microclimate.

North Bowl, in particular, is legendary, and the resort also boasts some of the best hike-to powder stashes in the country. The resort uniquely offers every powder pursuit imaginable: guided backcountry, nearby K3 Cat Skiing, backcountry snowmobiling and the world-famous Selkirk Tangiers heli-skiing, right on the town’s doorstep.”

Ready to tackle a snowboarder’s dream with Selkirk Heli Skiing? You can access over 500,000 acres of off-piste terrain on one of the snowiest mountain ranges on Earth. That’s not just a lot of snow; that’s a whole other level of skiing.

Just a few hours’ drive from Kicking Horse, it’s easy to link the two into one epic Canadian adventure on our BC Powder Ski Safari. To get even more out of your Canadian stay, you could combine Revelstoke, Kicking Horse, Fernie and Kimberley on our Rockies Loop Ski Safari.

10 nights in Revelstoke including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £2050 to £3700 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult lift pass costs between £446 - £604.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“Amazing backcountry that's easily accessible. Great snow and a friendly vibe. Small but perfectly formed. Not too expensive and easy to get to from town. Not for the faint-hearted! So if you're looking for something to test your skills, it's here!” - Sam Butler

“Big gnarly mountain, excellent base hotel, nice town with very good food and beer. Lived up to the hype! We wished we could have stayed longer (or forever).” - Laura Blackwood

Ski resorts in the USA offer an incredible mix of terrain, scenery, and character - perfect for adventurous skiers and snowboarders. Run gradings tend to be tougher than in Europe, making them ideal for thrill-seekers looking to push their limits.

California boasts long, sunny seasons, while Colorado is world-famous for its light, dry champagne powder. Utah sees an astonishing 12 metres of snowfall each year, and Wyoming tempts experts with steep chutes and unbeatable backcountry access.

Terrain: 50% advanced / 40% intermediate / 10% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: Corbet’s Couloir, Grand Targhee, Cody Bowl

Jackson Hole is a household name for expert skiers and boarders, and for good reason. Offering an average of 12 metres of snowfall each year, it boasts genuinely challenging terrain that tests seasoned pros year after year. The resort’s slope grading says it all - half of the resort’s trails here are intended for experts, where Black Diamonds are equal to Double Blacks at other resorts in the states. It’s seriously steep, seriously deep, and seriously not for the faint-hearted.

Richard has skied in Jackson Hole several times and says, “The iconic Jackson Hole reputedly has the steepest in-bounds terrain of any resort in the world - I think that tells you all you need to know! Jackson has to be on every expert skier's bucket list; it’s a classic destination with a lot of incredible skiers to show you the way it should be done.”

Corbet’s Couloir - the resort’s star attraction and one of America’s scariest slopes - features a 20-foot drop and 50-degree pitch. This chute is so tight it’ll make your knees shake just looking at it from the Aerial Tram. As Richard recalls, “I've peeked over the edge on two occasions but never been brave enough to launch myself down it!” 

Corbet's regularly features in GoPro and Red Bull videos for good reason, and Jackson Hole hosts the annual Kings and Queens of Corbet's freeride and freestyle competition that attracts elite skiers and snowboarders from across the world.

We recommend hiring a guide to access some of the best hidden gems away from the main tracks. Once you’ve been to areas like Cody Bowl with a guide, you’re free to return unguided, but you must carry a transceiver and the necessary equipment - oh, and a head for danger!

If you want steep chutes with vast terrain, combine Jackson Hole with Big Sky for an unforgettable ski holiday on our Big Mountain Ski Safari.

10 nights in Jackson Hole including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £2100 to £5800 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult lift pass costs on average £1,017.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“An excellent resort. The bus service to town is fantastic and makes accessing a wider range of facilities easy. This is the real America and the best of the West. The mountain is great for advanced and expert skiers/boarders. Intermediate blue runs are steep and like black runs elsewhere.” -  Julia Oyston

Amazing resort with incredible skiing - helped by the huge amount of fresh snow that we had whilst there! Totally incomparable to European skiing and far, far more fun [...]” - Nicki

Terrain: 42% advanced / 43% intermediate / 15% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: Highland Bowl, draglift to Cirque summit

Voted best resort for experts in Snowmad’s Ski Resort Awards 2025, Aspen Snowmass’s four-mountain resort - spanning Aspen Mountain, Highlands, Snowmass and Buttermilk - isn’t about taking things easy. It’s about leg-burning verticals, tight tree skiing, and hike-to-ski adventure. A popular excursion for experts is the 30 to 40-minute hike up to the runs that lead down into Highlands Bowl - this requires advanced skill and fitness levels!

Back in 2024, Rupert and Sales Consultant Josh visited Aspen to try out the gnarly terrain. Rupert believes Aspen Snowmass is brilliant for experts, and says “It’s got everything you want in one spot: four varied mountains, consistently good snow and the lifts are modern and slick. It’s a well-oiled machine!”

Equally, Josh consistently recommends Aspen Snowmass to our expert customers, and says: “Highlands is famed for its bowls, and Aspen Mountain is a speed freak's dream. If you take the draglift to the summit of Cirque, you’ll find a plethora of double black diamonds comprised of powder fields, tree skiing and steep mogul fields. Beginners are not allowed on this mountain, which gives you an indication of the type of terrain you can find here!”

You can expect some fantastic snow parks too. Josh says, “If you prefer serious airtime, Buttermilk Mountain offers an extensive snow park with a halfpipe, huge kickers and a great variety of rails and boxes. Home to regular X Games events, this resort is for lovers of freestyle.”

On just one Ikon ski pass, you can ski Steamboat, the Seven Territories of Winter Park, and Aspen Snowmass’ four ski areas on our Colorado Ski Safari.

10 nights in Aspen Snowmass including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £3700 to £8000 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult lift pass costs on average £1,152.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“Superb, no other word for it. Our second time in the area (first time was to Aspen in 2011 with Ski Safari) and it didn't disappoint!” - Simon Gregory

“Great resort for Intermediates and expert skiers. Lots of black double diamonds in the back bowls.” - Sheridan McKay

What truly sets Japan apart from the rest is its incredibly consistent, ultra-light powder - some of the best snow on Earth! Cold, dry air from Siberia sweeps over the Sea of Japan, picking up moisture and releasing it as deep, dry snow across the mountains on the West Coast of Japan.

The majority of snow falls between mid-December and mid-March, with January and February often seeing 25+ snow days per month. So if you travel in this window, chances are you’re getting ‘Japow’. Resorts build a reliable base early, then receive almost daily top-ups.

For expert skiers, it’s paradise: steep bowls, open faces and perfectly spaced Japanese White Birch that offer incredible tree skiing beyond the groomed runs. Several of our team have skied, lived or instructed in Japan, and we keep going back for this same reason! Off the mountain, unwind in a steaming onsen, feast on local cuisine, or explore snow-covered temples and historic mountain villages.

Terrain: 30% advanced / 43% intermediate / 27% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: Challenge (Annupuri), Snorkel (Niseko Village), Large and Miharashi (Hirafu), Legend of Shinya and Strawberry Fields (Hanazono), Silver Dream, Hanazono Park

For experts chasing deep snow and dynamic terrain, Niseko is in a league of its own. Set on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, Niseko United is made up of four interlinked areas: Annupuri, Niseko Village, Hirafu and Hanazono. Together, they deliver a wide variety of terrain with snow averaging at 12 metres at the base and up to 18 metres at the summit.

Within resort boundaries, you'll find a large amount of off-piste terrain, as well as designated backcountry gates that offer lift-accessed entry into unpatrolled terrain beyond the ropes. These gates are managed by the resort, but conditions are uncontrolled, so we strongly recommend hiring a local guide and carrying proper avalanche safety gear, even for experienced skiers.

Product and Sales Specialist Abbie says, “My favourite route was out of Gate 3. On a clear day, hike the main peak in Hirafu for sea views and drop down into the Annupuri backbowl, turn through the trees and cruise down to Annupuri base gondola. For the really adventurous, hike the dormant volcano Mount Yotei and ski the crater!"

"The hike takes five to eight hours and once you reach the top, expect spectacular views across Hokkaido, before dropping into the sheltered powder-filled crater for untouched turns. Your legs will feel it after a day like this! With various routes to take and dependent on good conditions, an experienced guide is recommended.”

To add even more to your Niseko adventure, we recommend adding a day trip to Rusutsu, which is included on our Hokkaido Explorer Ski Safari, for excellent tree skiing and peaceful runs away from the busier Niseko crowds. Or if you want to stay local, Niseko offers night skiing against the backdrop of Mount Yotei.

Niseko is an all-round skier pleaser, and features in most of our Japan Ski & City safaris, including our Taste, Histories, Flavours and Traditions of Japan ski safaris.

10 nights in Niseko including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £1995 - £5430 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult lift pass costs between £437 - £623 per person.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“As for Niseko - we will be back. We loved the resort on-piste, the off-piste powder, and for the apres and experience. The mountain and the view of Mt Yotei volcano are stunning and iconic.” - Matthew Ward

Terrain: 20% advanced / 40% intermediate / 40% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: Premium Zone, Asahidake, Kamui, Tomamu zones

Nestled in central Hokkaido and framed by the stunning Daisetsuzan National Park, Furano is a favourite among locals and a standout destination for expert skiers in search of deep, dry powder and demanding terrain. This resort is famous for hosting elite competitions like the FIS Downhill World Cup and has established a strong reputation for top-tier skiing and a more authentic, less crowded experience.

Sales Consultant Andy Evans spent five years living in Hokkaido, Japan, where he competed in both freeride and freestyle events as a skilled and passionate skier. With formal ski instructor training under his belt, Andy knows a thing or two about chasing powder - so it’s no surprise that Furano ranks high on his list of top recommendations. He says, "For expert skiers, the 'Premium Zone' on the Kitanomine side or the backcountry gates off the Romance Pair lift are my go-to spots. Or, if you're willing to earn your turns, we'll arrange a guide to take you into the Daisetsuzan national park to seek out Japan's deepest, lightest powder on a chain of active volcanoes. Truly a once in a lifetime experience."

Recent years have seen a loosening of backcountry access restrictions, opening up incredible tree runs and untouched powder stashes. The snow here is typically lighter and drier than in western Hokkaido, with an average of around nine metres annually. With local guides, visitors can explore nearby backcountry zones - Asahidake, Kamui, and Tomamu - which offer untouched powder and thrilling descents.

To experience more off-the-beaten-track destinations, take your ski holiday further with our Hokkaido Explorer Ski Safari, which combines skiing in Niseko, Kiroro/Rusutsu, Furano and a visit to Tokyo.

10 nights in Furano including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £3005 - £3805 per person (based on 2 sharing) depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 10-day adult lift pass costs between £368 - £495 per person.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“A smaller resort, but no shortage of off-piste and backcountry terrain, as well as well-prepared pistes, and easy to get between the two ski areas that make up the resort. A good, friendly atmosphere[...]” - Paul Beard

“Skied in several resorts in the area and all were great fun, would highly recommend Whiteroom, the guiding service you set us up with, as their local knowledge was brilliant.” - Richard Shaw

Norway takes the lead when it comes to a nation born and bred skiing, and it’s no wonder why the Norwegians have claimed more Winter Olympic gold medals than any other country. 

For experts, Norway offers a unique blend of raw Arctic wilderness and refined culture and cuisine, so if you’re looking to explore untamed terrain without sacrificing comfort, this is the place to do it.

From your cosy base, you’ll have access to vast, lift-served off-piste zones, endless touring potential, and some of the most spectacular scenery in the skiing world - think fjords, frozen coastlines, and towering peaks dropping straight to the sea. The sense of space and solitude is unmatched, and when guided by locals who know the terrain inside out, you’ll uncover secret stashes and untouched descents few others get to ride.

Terrain: 10% advanced / 50% intermediate / 40% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: World Cup Run, Andrebakken (black diamond), off-piste from the central green Fjellveien route

Narvik is a true polar playground, offering expansive backcountry terrain and easy-to-access off-piste powder - all set against breathtaking coastal scenery. The dramatic wilderness surrounding the resort is best explored with a local guide, who can help you make the most of this remote and remarkable destination.

Our whole team were lucky enough to see these breathtaking views for ourselves in May 2025. Andy Evans took this to a whole new level by climbing over one thousand metres to the top of a mountain to catch the sunrise on his Narvik trip in May 2025. He remembers the experience: "It was a peaceful, personal moment, but that, and the solo ski back down, was something I’ll remember for a very long time, and I’ll always treasure Narvik for this experience.”

As for the skiing, Andy says, “There are a couple of steep blacks, a terrain park, and a World Cup Run (the FIS Ski World Cup will be held in Narvik in 2029), all with the mesmerising ocean view below. The backcountry potential is also huge - from the top of the gondola, the ridgeline to the summit has countless couloirs and big lines with consistent pitch and lots of vertical”.

Assistant Operations Manager, Anna, had an unforgettable time cruising off-piste too, and says “Narvik has to be one of the most unique resorts I’ve ever visited. Even late in the day when the sun was beginning to set, we were still skiing untracked routes heading through the trees and onto steeper terrain.”

To truly explore the wilderness of Narvik, our Arctic Circle Ski Safari combines Narvik with skiing in Riksgränsen on the same Arctic pass. Just cross the border and delve into the deep powder and serene vastness of northern Scandinavia.

7 nights in Narvik including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £1,300-£2,100 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 6-day adult lift pass costs between £186 - £262 per person. The latter price includes the Artic pass which covers skiing in Narvik, Riksgränsen and Björkliden and complimentary bus transfers between the resorts.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“Great location, spectacular views and loads of snow!” - Andrew M. McLean

Sweden turns traditional snow logic on its head. While most resorts rely on altitude for snow (especially in the Alps), Sweden’s far northern latitude guarantees cold temperatures and reliable snowfall even at lower elevations. This means a long, consistent season from November to May, with excellent snow quality throughout.

For experts, Sweden offers vast, uncrowded terrain, deep-rooted snowsport culture and a unique Arctic experience - complete with northern lights and striking polar landscapes. Just a short flight from the UK, it's a surprisingly accessible alternative to the Alps, offering serious skiing and boarding and the thrill of true wilderness without the long-haul journey.

Terrain: 15% advanced / 64% intermediate / 21% beginner
Our favourite expert runs: Uffe’s Wall, Nordalsfjäll

Thanks to its unique position as the world’s northernmost ski resort, Riksgränsen opens its lifts in February (after a polar winter) and keeps them turning well into June. Combine that with the highest snowfall in all of Sweden, and you’ve got one of the best late-season destinations for experts chasing deep snow and limitless terrain long after other resorts have closed.

Norway & Sweden Product Manager Andy Hemingway says, “For off-piste enthusiasts, Uffe's Wall is world-renowned and recognised by elite freeriders for its steepness and technical challenge. Nordalsfjäll is another area to note and hosts the annual Extreme Skiing Championship (NM) in May - showcasing just how long the season runs here. From endless off-piste to runs that stay open under the midnight sun, this is a ski holiday like no other.

I personally love taking the Övre chairlift to the summit - it literally reaches the border between Norway and Sweden. The views are spectacular, you feel properly immersed in the Arctic wilderness, and from the top, you can choose to ski on-piste, off-piste, or both - all while enjoying the thrill of skiing both Norway and Sweden in a single descent.”

Riksgränsen is also where heli-skiing and remote off-piste go next level. With access to over 100 peaks across a staggering 60,000 sq km of unrestricted drop zones (the size of the Netherlands!), expect legendary conditions in the vast Arctic wilderness that dips into neighbouring Norway. No crowds, no boundaries - just you, a guide, and the chopper.

Prefer to earn your turns? The region offers exceptional ski touring and avalanche and snow safety courses for those looking to push deeper. Riksgränsen is also home to the iconic Scandinavian Big Mountain Championships, a proving ground for the world’s best freeriders.

For a trip of a lifetime, ski Scandinavia’s largest resort, heli-ski, spot northern lights and stay in the ICEHOTEL® on our Åre and the Arctic Ski Safari.

7 nights in Riksgränsen including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £1,500-£2,100 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 6-day adult lift pass costs between £205 - £262 per person. The latter price includes the Artic pass which covers skiing in Narvik, Riksgränsen and Björkliden and complimentary bus transfers between the resorts.

Call 01273 224060 to speak to our team or request a quotation online and we’ll be in touch.

“We had some of the most fun skiing we've had in years. Stepping off the train in Riksgränsen was a throwback to another world. [...] the place is a gem for those who love skiing as much as we do. We were off piste much more than expected and loved every minute of our time there. Björkliden was a lovely surprise too.. Overall, Riksgränsen gave us a really unique experience that cannot be matched in other resorts in Europe. You get a taste of real adventure. We hope we can return someday!” - Magdalena Richardson

We love talking all things skiing and snowboarding, and we’re here to make planning your trip as easy as possible. Simply request a quotation online, and our expert team will get back to you quickly with personalised advice and options.

We can recommend everything from guided tours and heli-skiing adventures to unforgettable non-ski experiences. We pride ourselves on knowing every resort we offer inside and out, so you can trust our first-hand advice to point you in the right direction. Need more info? Contact our friendly team on 01273 224060 - we’re always happy to help.

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