There's always been a debate surrounding the best time to go skiing, whether you want to make the most of the winter skiing season at some of the best ski resorts in Europe, or enjoy the early spring sun through a spring skiing holiday somewhere further afield. Knowing when ski season starts and ends is vital when planning your ski holiday. Join The Snow Centre as we take a closer look at how long a skiing season is and the suitability by month, as well as some of the best late-season ski resorts.

In this complete guide to ski season, you will learn:

  • How long is a ski season, including when it starts and ends?
  • The best month for skiing.
  • A breakdown of each month of ski season.

How Long is a Ski Season?

In the Northern Hemisphere, the skiing season typically lasts for five or six months across ski resorts. In Europe, the skiing season lasts through the winter and into spring, petering out by the start of summer, where most snow will have melted back. However, on some high-altitude ski resorts across the Alps, the season extends to offer summer skiing into the early months. 

  • Typically, five to six months
  • Some resorts open earlier and remain open longer 

When Does Ski Season Start?

Skiing season starts in November or December, with the month varying depending on the location and temperature. In some higher-altitude resorts, the skiing season can begin as early as October. Snowfall will also play a role in when a resort can open, with late December typically being the most reliable time to head to a ski resort.

  • Ski season starts at the end of the year in November or December.
  • Some resorts open as early as October. 

When Does Ski Season End?

The end of the skiing season varies much like the start, depending on the location and temperature, with lower-altitude ski resorts wrapping up in late April. However, higher altitude ski resorts typically in the Alps can remain operating into the early summer months of May and June, offering summer skiing. 

  • Ski season ends around late April.
  • Some resorts remain open until May and June.

Which Month is the Best Time for You to Go Skiing?

The best time to go skiing usually varies depending on what activities you are looking for. We have broken down the highlights of each month so you can see when the best time for you to go skiing is.

Skiing in November & December

November and December mark the start of the traditional ski season, and of course, should you head to the slopes in December, you can combine it with the Christmas festivities. High-altitude resorts like Val Thoren, Tignes, and Zermatt are a good bet at this time of year. Snow-covered slopes and, of course, the promise of must-see firework displays, decorations, and Christmas markets. A truly magical experience.

  • Start of the European ski season
  • Best skiing conditions
  • Great for celebrating Christmas abroad

Skiing in January

On the whole, January is one of the quieter months of the ski season. This can be a positive if you are looking to ski in the height of the ski season on a budget. You’ll find your stay will be cheaper for a start, but the slopes will also have fewer people on them, allowing for space and time for you to enjoy long days out, skiing to your heart’s content. If you are looking for beginner ski resorts, then January is the perfect month to book your ski trip.

  • Quieter time of year.
  • It's cheaper to ski in January.
  • Especially in the first few weeks of January

Skiing in February

February is perhaps the perfect happy medium for those skiers looking for temperatures that don’t freeze their fingers too much but, at the same time, keep the snow firm. As the season moves into its latter stages, February can be ideal for a half-term break on the slopes.

  • Warmer weather, but still great snow conditions.
  • Busiest month in most European destinations

Skiing in March & April

The last months of the season offer parties and festivals for you to enjoy before the season comes to a close. The days also get longer, meaning more time to enjoy unbelievable highs to see out the season. This is also an excellent time for ski holiday deals. So if you are looking for the perfect end to the winter season at some of the best late-season ski resorts, March and April have it all.

  • Festival season.
  • Longer days for more time on the slopes.
  • Good holiday deals around March and April

The Best Late-Season Ski Resorts

If you’re looking to get away to enjoy the last of the snow, then luckily, there are several high-altitude ski resorts that can offer snow-filled slopes as the temperatures climb. Some of the best late-season ski resorts include:

  • Val Thorens in France - One of the best ski resorts in France, offering large skiing areas and stable snow conditions.
  • Tignes in the French Alps - Offering varied terrain and reliable snow, this ski resort is perfect for late-season skiing. 
  • Zermatt in Switzerland - This high-altitude ski resort is one of the best ski resorts in Switzerland, offering real snow skiing late into the season, often open until the very end of spring.  

Get Ski Holiday Ready at The Snow Centre

Ski season is all year round at The Snow Centre! Now that you know the best months of the year to head on a skiing holiday, it's time to get ready to take on even the steepest of slopes. At both of our The Snow Centre locations, you can learn to ski from a complete beginner to mastering advanced techniques on our real snow indoor ski slopes. 

Head to The Snow Centre Manchester to take on the largest real snow indoor ski slope in the UK, take ski lessons from our expert instructors or touch up on your skills with some ski coaching at The Snow Centre Hemel.

Wherever you plan to head on your ski holiday, our qualified instructors can teach you all you need to know. If you have any questions about booking ski lessons tailored to your ability or would like to sample all that The Snow Centre has to offer, please contact us. A member of our team will be happy to help.