5 Places You Can Ski in June

We don’t go skiing in June because it’s convenient or easy. We go because we’re just not ready to let go of winter, and if we can eke out another day here or there, then maybe the season isn’t actually over. Or at least that’s what we tell ourselves.

We also go because corn snow is amazing, and catching it at the just the right temperature and consistency is nothing short of magical. Also: goggle tans, deck beers, pond skims, and just one more run with your squad. Oh, and the pure novelty of skiing in June

Here are five of the best spots to get your turns in this month.

Where to Ski in June

Banff Sunshine, Alb.

You’ve probably heard the news by now, but thanks to solid snowpack this past season, Banff Sunshine is reopening in June for two-plus weeks of summer skiing. They’re still working out the deets, but at least one lift, plus the parking lot gondola, will be spinning for corn laps under the sun. Don’t forget your bright-light lenses and plenty of sunscreen. Bonus: Ski in the morning then soak in Banff’s hot springs afterward, a combo almost as good as chocolate and peanut butter.

Beartooth Basin, Mont.

North America’s singular summer-ski-only resort opened on Memorial Day and plans to operate through June 21, conditions permitting. Located on the Beartooth Highway near Red Lodge, Beartooth is really something that all serious skiers should experience at least once. The views are epic, the runs are steep, and the vibe is always pure stoke.

Les Deux Alpes, France

This glacier serves up some of the best summer skiing on the planet thanks to its high elevation and snow-sure conditions. You’ll find everyone from park rats to World Cup racers lapping the terrain before descending down to the notoriously fun village for après and thumping nightlife. Find time to rack the skis and take a high-alpine hike to smell the wildflowers, too.

Valle Nevado, Chile

We’re putting our skis in storage here in the Northern Hemisphere, but the season is just kicking off in the Southern Hemisphere. For June skiing, we recommend Chile’s Valle Nevado, which officially opens on June 13, a week earlier than originally planned due to early-season storms. Located a couple hours outside of Santiago, Valle Nevado is one of the easier destinations to access, and if this month’s snowfall is any indication, it’s going to be a banger season down south.

Mt. Hood Backcountry, Oregon

It’s hard to pick just one backcountry skiing spot, but you can’t go wrong on Mt. Hood. Aim for the Palmer Snowfield or another high-elevation objective to ensure decent snow, and be sure to get a very early start; mountain weather is known to get volatile later in the day. Skiers share conditions and experiences on this Facebook page, and don’t even consider going unless you have up-to-date backcountry training, the proper gear, and the skills to use it.

For more backcountry routes for all levels, check out this article from longtime SKI contributor and experienced backcountry skier Lily Ritter.