7 Best Snow Sure Resorts for Skiing in April

 

In our opinion, spring skiing ranks among life’s greatest pleasures. Picture this: pristine powder, clear blue skies, and leisurely lunches basking in the sun on a charming terrace. It’s hard to imagine a more perfect scenario. However, the question of when and where to head on your spring skiing adventure often sparks lively debate. 

In this blog, we explore the wonders of April skiing, showcasing best snow sure ski resorts in April, standout slopes, and addressing common queries about skiing in the late season. 

Spoiler alert: April skiing is an experience not to be overlooked. So, gear up and prepare to uncover all you need to know about April ski holidays. Don’t hesitate—start planning your trip now, because this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss!

 

Is April a Good Time to Go Skiing?

 

April often doesn’t get the credit it deserves for being a great month to go skiing. While the afternoons might get a bit slushy in warm weather, choosing the right ski resort can mean that you enjoy all the incredible things late-season skiing has to offer. From enticing last-minute spring skiing deals, quiet slopes, discounted lift passes, and not to mention long afternoons of après-ski under blue, sunny skies. 

Higher altitudes areas maintain soft, powdery conditions, and many resorts receive fresh April snowfall alongside ample sunshine, leading to those unrivalled bluebird powder days. With quieter slopes and those unbeatable spring skiing conditions, it creates the perfect recipe for a ski holiday to remember.

 

Things to Consider for Ski Holidays in April

 

To ensure you get the most out of your April ski holiday, we recommended looking out the for the following things when choosing which resort to visit:

• High Altitude
• Good snowfall records
• Snow cannon capabilities
• Late season lift pass offers

 

The Best Resorts for Snow & Skiing in April

 

1. Meribel, France (2,952 m)

As winter gradually comes to an end, Meribel transforms into a haven for April skiing enthusiasts. The temperatures hover comfortably between -2ºC and 6ºC, offering a pleasant environment for delightfully long days on the mountain. With an average of ten days of snowfall throughout April, the possibility of experiencing an unforgettable powder day remains very real. 

You will also have access to the entire Three Valleys ski area, boasting a whopping 600km of interconnected slopes, with 85% exceeding an altitude of 1800m, ensuring exceptional skiing conditions for skiers of all levels. 

Thanks to its elevated position and climate, Meribel stands as a beacon of reliability when it comes to snow coverage and Meribel’s commitment to maintaining world class skiing experiences remains top priority. Equipped with around 2000 snow cannons covering half of the resort, coupled with unwavering efforts from the resort team, the pistes uphold their reputation for excellence. 

As April showers grace the UK, in the Alps, they manifest as abundant snowfall, often resulting in some incredible late-season dumps. Many of our guests have been treated to some of their best ever powder days during this time. 

In short, April in Meribel offers an unbeatable opportunity to embrace the spring snow, and indulge in leisurely lunches or après-ski festivities on the sun-drenched terraces scattered across the Three Valleys.

 

2. Zermatt, Switzerland (1,620 m)

Commonly known for the iconic Matterhorn mountain, Zermatt is one of the most popular spots ski holidays in Switzerland in April. 

Zermatt has an altitude of 1,620m-3,820m plus the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise area meaning you can find great conditions all season long.

There is 360km of slopes in the area, with most open through to April. The pistes are mainly suited to intermediate to advanced skiers. 

 

 

3. Ischgl, Austria (1,400m)

Ischgl’s high altitude and predominantly north-facing pistes, all situated above 2,000 metres mean it manages to remain open right through April and until the beginning of May. It’s also renowned for its top-tier terrain parks and opportunities for untouched off-piste skiing. 

 

 

4. Whistler, Canada (675m)

Whistler is a must-visit destination for many skiing enthusiasts due to its distinctive terrain and vibrant atmosphere. Situated in British Columbia, Canada, Whistler is thought to boast some of the finest snowfall in the world, making it particularly appealing for April skiing. 

During the late season, temperatures in Whistler remain low and skiers can enjoy a high altitude ranging from 670 to 2,284 metres. 

With 200km of slopes catering to all skill levels, skiers of every ability will find something to enjoy. Whistler is also known for it’s great off-piste powder skiing so is often a popular hit with off-piste enthusiasts. 

 

5. Val d’Isere (1,850m) & Tignes, France (2100m)

In the Espace Killy ski area, over half of the slopes surpass 2,500 meters, ensuring a late season that lasts through April until early May. 

The Espace Killy’s enduring season makes it a dependable choice for April skiing, with Val d’Isere benefiting from north-facing slopes and Tignes boasting high-altitude skiing on the Grande Motte glacier, extending its season to nine months. With a combined 300km of high-altitude slopes, the area attracts a diverse range of visitors, from families to avid freeriders.

 

6. Passo Tonale, Italy (1883 m)

Passo Tonale is considered to be one of the best places to ski in April in Italy as it’s one of the country’s most snow-sure resorts. Boasting an altitude of 1,885m-3,100m with some great pistes on the Presena glacier. 

Skiers of all levels will enjoy the 130km of slopes in the area. Passo Tonale also boasts a strong snow making infrastructure with 200 snow cannons on the mountain that guarantee the excellent conditions on the pistes.

 

7. Mammoth, USA (3369 m)

In Mammoth, in the USA, 90km of slopes cover one huge mountain. 

It has got a reputation for being very snow-sure due to its altitude of 2,425m-3,370m. And although the ski area is fairly modest, the high altitude makes it one of the best places for a ski holiday to the USA in April.

The ski terrain caters to skiers of all skill levels and offers a diverse range of slopes.

 

The Best Slopes for April Skiing in Meribel

 

Beginner Slopes for Spring Skiing

Meribel has two designated beginner ski areas with free lifts which allow you to learn and progress in a comfortable beginner environment all season round. These are located in the centre of Meribel Mottaret, known as the Zen zone and at the Altiport area of Meribel, the Ski Cool zone. 

Once you’ve conquered the beginner slopes and are ready to tackle more challenging terrain, two more awesome, beginner friendly areas await you! Just above Meribel, you’ll find the green Blanchot run that starts at the top of Saulire Express 1 gondola lift and leads back to the Altiport area, or you can continue along Foret back into Méribel resort. This route is marketed as the Ski Cool route. 

All of the beginner areas are equipped with state of the art snow cannons meaning you’re sure to enjoy great conditions all season long.

 

Intermediate Pistes with Perfect Late-Season Snow

It’s safe to say there’s no shortage of splendid spring slopes perfect for intermediate level skiers in Meribel and the surrounding area, but here are a few of our top picks: 

• Choucas (Blue)
• Roc de Fer (Blue)
• Biche (Blue), followed by Chamois (Red)

 

Choucas (Blue) 

Leading you down from the ridge between Meribel and St Martin, the often lesser known blue run Choucas offers a fairly short yet thrill inducing run featuring several rollers scattered along its gentle incline. Bathed in morning sunlight, it serves as an excellent choice for an early run, certain to warm the legs.

 

Roc de Fer (Blue)

Also over on the Belleville side of the valley, Roc de Fer is a charming blue that descends from the top of the Olympic chair and offers some incredible views, with a long, sunny descent.

 

Biche (Blue), followed by Chamois (Red)

Guiding you down from the summit of the Saulire Express on the Courchevel side, the blue run Biche gradually transitions into the red run Chamois. Together, they provide a lengthy and exciting descent with breathtaking, panoramic views of Meribel. 

It can be advisable to tackle them later in the day, after they’ve had exposure to the sun and softened up for optimal skiing conditions. However, in April, it’s likely best to head on over slightly earlier given the beautiful spring sunshine and warmer temperatures. 

 

Challenging Runs for Advanced Skiers in April

For advanced skiers looking for incredible spring slopes, be sure to check out these top spots: 

• Roc De Tounge (Red and Blacks)
• Combe du Vallon (Red)
• La Face (Black)

 

Roc de Tougne (Red and Blacks)

Advanced skiers looking for some more challenging yet thrilling runs should head up the Roc de Tounge lift to test their skills. 

With only red and black runs down, it’s a great area for confident, advanced level skiers. When there’s fresh snowfall, be sure to make the most of the fresh powder just to the side of the piste.

 

Combe du Vallon (Red)

One of the two red runs leading down from the peak of Meribel’s highest summit, Mont Vallon, Combe de Vallon presents breathtaking vistas and offers a delightful skiing experience. It stands out as one of the more demanding runs in the area which make it all the more rewarding once accomplished. For those seeking a real physical challenge, we recommend tackling it without pause – you’ll certainly feel it in the thighs! 

 

La Face (Black)

Originally designed for the downhill competitions during the 1992 Winter Olympics, the challenging Face black piste is located at the summit of the Roc de Fer and beginning at an altitude of 2,290 metres.

On your way down, you’ll navigate a thrilling, predominantly straight descent where you can pick up considerable speed. This exhilarating run is definitely suited for the advanced and confident skiers but those who dare are bound to be rewarded with an unforgettable skiing experience.

 

Conclusion: The Best Snow Sure Ski Resorts in April

In conclusion, April is undoubtedly an underrated yet excellent time for skiing, particularly in the carefully selected snow-sure resorts. 

Despite the potential for slushy afternoons, these resorts offer a whole range of magical qualities, making them the perfect destinations for late-season skiing enthusiasts. From last-minute spring skiing deals, to quieter slopes, unforgettable bluebird days and discounted lift passes, there’s much so much to enjoy. 

We may be biassed but we think you’ll agree among the top destinations, Meribel stands out as a prime choice, offering exceptional skiing conditions amidst breathtaking scenery and an extensive array of slopes catering to all levels of skiers. With meticulous attention to snow coverage, Meribel ensures a memorable skiing experience in April. So, if you’re contemplating a late-season ski getaway, April might just be the perfect time to hit the slopes and create lasting memories on the snow-covered pistes. 

 

Ready to book your April trip to Meribel?! Why not check out our remaining availability.

If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to get in contact and a member of the team would be pleased to help. 

 

FAQ About Skiing in April 

What are the best family ski resorts in April?

When looking for a family ski resort in April, you should consider altitude, snowfall records,

snow cannon capabilities, late season lift pass offers and the variety of runs on offer for all the family. 

The Three Valleys resorts, most notably Meribel nestled at the heart of the ski area, offer the perfect balance of all elements making them the ideal choice for family ski holidays in April. 

 

Is April a good time to visit the Alps?

Absolutely! April skiing in the Alps brings a whole different kind of magic, with mild weather, reliable snow cover, and fewer crowds meaning beautiful quiet slopes.