For some skiers, height is everything. Across the world, there are incredible resorts climbing thousands of metres above sea level, boasting impeccable facilities and slopes that are the stuff of dreams. But what is the highest ski resort in the world?
From the heights of Asia and America to some of the best ski resorts in Switzerland, the highest ski resorts in the world include the very best and most popular destinations for thrillseekers and families alike. For those looking for a winter experience that truly lets them ski from the top of the world, we’ve got you covered.
We spoke with our experts at The Snow Centre, and in this guide to the highest ski resorts in Europe and beyond, you'll discover:
- Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
- Gulmarg
- Breckenridge
- Zermatt
- Loveland
- Tochal
- Chamonix
- Mt. Elbrus
- Telluride
- Aspen Snowmass
1. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Located near Lijiang, China, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain tops this list with authority. Climbing as high as 4,700 metres, this ski resort is never without quality snow cover, making its unbelievable vertical drop of 1,158 metres from summit to base an experience to behold. While not a conventional ski resort, the sheer scale of this ski area makes it worthy of inclusion, and with two gondolas and a variety of off-piste skiing options, Jade Dragon truly calls to the most adventurous spirits.
- 4,700 metres above sea level.
- Vertical drop of 1,158 metres from summit to base.
- Two gondolas and off-piste skiing options.
2. Gulmarg
Nestled in the stunning Himalayan Mountains, Gulmarg lets skiers ride as high as 3,980 metres before descending down 30km of slopes. In operation since 1927, this resort features Asia’s longest cable car and off-piste skiing that lets thrillseekers become fully immersed in the trees, rivers and mountains of India’s Kashmir region. At the end of each day, Gulmarg also offers a range of restaurants and hotels, as well as additional activities like snowboarding, heliskiing and horse riding.
- Nearly 4,000 metres above sea level.
- Offering 30km of slopes since 1927.
- Off-piste skiing in the heart of the Himalayas.
- Comfortable accommodation and welcoming restaurants.
3. Breckenridge
As the highest ski resort in the USA, Breckenridge is Colorado’s premier ski destination. With 187 runs across five peaks, reaching heights of 3,914 metres, this resort gets plenty of snowfall and offers something for every skier. After riding North America’s highest ski lift, guests can take the ‘4 O’Clock Run’, descending the full height of the mountain down to downtown Breck. Upon arrival, they can enjoy all that this charming spot has in store, from exploring the historic main street to trying out a pottery class.
- Around 3,900 metres above sea level.
- 187 runs across five peaks.
- Features North America’s highest ski lift.
- Ski all the way down to Breck, where activities await.
4. Zermatt
With slopes reaching 3,883 metres, Zermatt takes the top spot as the highest ski resort in Europe. Across its 350km of runs, beginner skiers and those with years of experience can both find the perfect path of descent. Nursery slopes offer an ideal space for learning the ropes, while off-piste trails down the Matterhorn await those craving a challenge. Consistent snow quality ensures day after day of skiing fun, and a range of wellness and fitness facilities makes evenings relaxing and rejuvenating.
- Over 3,800 metres above sea level.
- 350km of runs for every skill level.
- Off-piste trails down the Matterhorn for thrillseekers.
- Wellness and fitness facilities for relaxation.
5. Loveland
Found in Colorado’s second-oldest ski area, Loveland is a family-owned resort that reaches 3,871 metres high. With 94 trails, this mountain resort offers something for everyone, from the Loveland Valley, a haven for developing skiers, to The Ridge, ideal for advanced skiers seeking a steep challenge. To complete the Rocky Mountain experience, guests can settle into on-mountain cabins or pick up some new gear at the sports shop.
- Around 3,800 metres above sea level.
- Boasts 94 trails.
- Loveland Valley caters to developing skiers.
- The Ridge offers a challenge for advanced skiers.
- On-mountain cabins offer immersive stays.
6. Tochal
With a peak altitude of 3,850 metres, Tochal in Iran has been letting skiers descend from its incredible heights since 1976. Its slopes include welcoming blue runs for newcomers and off-piste trails for those craving a speedy journey through nature. Guests can book a room in the Tochal Hotel, sleeping at an immense 3,500 metres high, and enjoy delicious cuisines or a ride on the sensational zip line.
- 3,850 metres above sea level.
- Operating since 1976.
- Blue slopes and off-piste trails for different skiers.
- Offers stays in the Tochal Hotel, 3,500 metres high.
7. Chamonix
Chamonix is another of the highest ski resorts in Europe, offering trails as high as 3,842 metres with spectacular views of Mont Blanc. Ideal for advanced skiers, this resort is located at the base of four mountains – Grands Montets, Balme-Tour-Vallorcine, Brevent-Flegere, and Les Houches – and provides over 150km of pistes and an astonishing vertical drop of 2,800 metres. Home to France’s oldest ski town, Chamonix has everything from snowshoeing and paragliding to spa treatments and wine tasting.
- Slopes as high as around 3,800 metres above sea level.
- Offers great views of Mont Blanc.
- 150km of pistes with a 2,800-metre vertical drop.
- Home to France’s oldest ski town.
8. Mt. Elbrus
As the highest ski resort in Russia, Mt. Elbrus’ momentous slopes of 3,840 metres high have unsurprisingly been the home of athlete and cosmonaut training. Offering 7 pistes and a 1,429m vertical drop, this resort combines 16km of groomed trails and access to sweeping off-piste routes, offering wild and wonderful experiences for every type of skier. The village of Cheget is just a mile away, offering cosy chalets and plenty of après-ski opportunities.
- Climbs to heights of around 3,800 metres above sea level.
- Offer 7 pistes, 16km of runs and a 1,429m vertical drop.
- Off-piste runs with immersive natural beauty.
- Cosy chalets and après-ski can be found in Cheget.
9. Telluride
Back in the USA, we find Telluride, a resort packed with 127 runs climbing to heights of 3,831 metres. Every skier can feel the joy of the descent and enjoy 360-degree views of the San Juan Mountains with Telluride’s diverse pistes, from gentle declines to 1,000m vertical drops in the Black Iron Bowl. Stunning mid-mountain restaurants offer incredible flavour and scenery, and the local town has plenty of retail and spa experiences to enjoy.
- Slopes reaching 3,800 metres above sea level.
- Incredible 360-degree views of the San Juan Mountains.
- 127 runs of every skill level.
- Plenty of dining and après-ski opportunities.
10. Aspen Snowmass
The final spot on our list of the highest ski resorts in the world goes to Aspen Snowmass. Providing over 23km of ski area across four mountain peaks, this resort stretches 3,813 metres high, from the gladed runs of Aspen Mountain to the exhilarating Terrain Park of Buttermilk. Home to wholesome family firsts and daredevil X Games trickery, Aspen Snowmass is also a melting pot of cuisine and culture, with plenty of events and interactive experiences to dive into.
- 3,812 metres above sea level.
- 23km of diverse ski area across four mountains.
- Ideal for families and X Games fans alike.
- Rich cultural and culinary identity.
Get Ski Holiday Ready at The Snow Centre
Want to test your skills at some of the highest ski resorts in the world? Our expert instructors can help you make the most out of your ski holiday. Our ski lessons at Manchester and Hemel Hempstead cater for all ages and abilities. From beginners to experts and kids to adults, you can find the perfect lesson out on our slopes.
If you have any questions about our ski lessons, be sure to contact us, and a member of our team will be happy to help. Interested to learn more about Europe’s highest and most popular destinations? Why not check out our guide to the best ski resorts in Europe?
