Want more winter? An overview of Southern Hemisphere ski access on the major season passes.
(Photo: Courtesy of Ski Corralco)
Updated April 27, 2026 08:08AM
If your ski season was less than satisfying and you’re looking for a reason to revisit winter, allow us to inspire you. Skiers on all of the major multipasses—Epic, Ikon, Indy, Mountain Collective, and even the Power Pass—have access to at least one Southern Hemisphere ski area on their resort roster. Why not make some turns this summer?
The Southern Hemisphere ski season begins in the next couple months, with most resorts opening in June and turning their lifts through late September or early October. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the long-range forecast is favorable for an El Niño winter down in South America, making this the perfect summer to relive (or redo) your winter fantasies.
Here are the best Southern Hemisphere ski areas on each pass, and a couple of our favorite independent options, too.
Where to Ski on Each Pass in the Southern Hemisphere This Summer
Ikon Pass
If you’re an Ikon Pass holder, you have access to one of the biggest and best ski areas in South America. Chile’s Valle Nevado has over 2,000 skiable acres, and is connected to neighboring La Parva, with another almost 2,000 acres to explore. Together, skiers can ride a total of 30 lifts, serving an eclectic variety of terrain from high-alpine bowls to mellow groomers with views for miles.
Ikon Pass holders get seven days on the full pass and five days on the Base Pass, with no blackout days or holiday restrictions.
Mountain Collective and Power Pass
It’s worth noting here that Valle Nevado is also on both the Mountain Collective and the Power Pass. MC skiers get two days, and can choose to use their free bonus day to get a third. Power Pass skiers get 10 days to use between Valle Nevado and La Parva, with no blackouts or restrictions.
Indy Pass
Ski Corralco, located in the Chilean Andes, is a unique, lesser-known destination that joined the Indy Pass last year. Set on the Lonquimay Volcano, Corralco has eight lifts serving a mix of expert runs, intermediate pistes, and beginners trails. It also boasts an impressive vertical drop of over 4,000 feet. Skiers can take in views of the neighboring seven volcanoes from the summit ridge. There’s also amazing backcountry access from Corralco. Hire a local guide to ski it safely.
Indy Pass holders get two days at Ski Corralco, and can add an additional day for 25 percent off. Lodging deals are also on tap for pass holders; get more details here.
Epic Pass
While there are no South American resorts on the Epic Pass, there are a trio of Australian ski areas to help scratch your ski itch this summer. It’s a haul, to be sure, and not necessarily the best skiing, in our humble opinion. That said, if you find yourself Down Under, and you’re an Epic Pass holder, the slopes of Mount Hotham, Perisher, and Falls Creek are known for their wide-open runs, lake views, and excellent terrain parks.
Epic Pass holders get unlimited access to all three Aussie resorts, but there’s no access on the Epic Local.
Independent Resorts Not On Any Multi-Resort Passes
Argentina’s Las Leñas can’t be left out of a discussion of the best terrain in South America. Entirely above treeline, the resort’s views are stunning. It’s known for its technical expert terrain, with a summit elevation of over 11,000 feet and an almost 4,000-foot vertical drop. Not the best option for beginners—there’s less than 20 percent of terrain suited to newer skiers—intermediates and experts can play for days in the resort’s diverse terrain. Confident skiers should ride the Marte lift to some of the toughest runs at the resort.
Las Leñas is not on any passes, but day tickets start around $87.
Chile’s Portillo is the one of the most recognizable names in South American skiing for a reason. Whether you’re familiar with its dramatic Andes views, the crystalline Inca Lake which you ski down to, or its slingshot ski lift, Roca Jack, Portillo is perhaps the quintessential Southern Hemisphere resort. The skiing doesn’t disappoint: There’s ample terrain for all skill levels.
Portillo is known for its all-inclusive Ski Week format, where you lodge at the iconic Hotel Portillo, take meals in the sit-down dining room, and ski with the same guides and instructors all week. Lift tickets are included as part of these packages.
