A series of monster August storms in the Andes is giving one Chilean resort confidence to stay open much later than usual. Valle Nevado, Chile’s largest ski resort, announced today that it’s extending its season into October with a planned closing day of Oct. 18.
For North American skiers, this means the Southern Hemisphere ski season will wind down just as North American resorts start to open. (Early openers such as Keystone and Arapahoe Basin usually start spinning lifts in late October. Keystone says it will open “as soon as possible in October.”)
While Valle Nevado may be technically open into October, September is a better bet for North American skiers making the long flight South for a “summer” ski vacation. August is traditionally the best month of South America’s shorter ski season, and targeting a September trip should help ensure more terrain remains open.
Lodging options are also broader earlier. Like many South American ski resorts, lodging is usually bundled into all-inclusive packages, and the on-mountain hotels start closing Sept. 20. The new, high-end Aconcagua Ski Residences will stay bookable through Oct. 8. Later in October, check Airbnb or Valle Nevado Rent for short-term rental options.
Valle Nevado has already received 17 feet of snow, about 75% of its 275-inch seasonal average, which has allowed the resort to reach 100% open terrain and lifts. Combo lift tickets for about $100 USD let you ski between Valle Nevado and adjacent (and lift-connected) La Parva, though La Parva has yet to announce its closing date.
