At first glance, the end of winter might seem like the time to hang up your skis. However, that’s far from the truth. Some of the best runs I’ve ever had happened in a hoodie under the spring sun. Picture this: soft snow under your skis, sunglasses on, and a mountain patio calling your name for après. That’s what makes spring skiing so underrated—it’s the season when the mountains mellow out and the vibe gets real. If you know where to go, you can chase the snow into May (and sometimes beyond). That’s why I pulled together my favorite spring skiing destinations that bring together great conditions, good times, and serious scenic payoffs.

Whether you’re in it for the buttery corn snow, the retro ski day parties, or just chasing quieter slopes, this is the time to shine.. Let’s dive into the top spring skiing destinations you’ll want to bookmark for your next off-season getaway.

Why Ski in Spring?

I used to think ski season ended with March. Then I discovered the magic of spring runs and never looked back. There’s a chill, festive atmosphere that takes over mountain towns when the temps start to rise. Locals swap out parkas for light laypers, lift lines vanish, and resorts lean into the fun with wild events—pond skims, anyone? And don’t even get me started on those longer days that let you ski past 4 p.m. without rushing the last run. Here’s why spring skiing destinations deserve more love:

• Less crowded slopes: Families are back in school, meaning peaceful trails for you.
• Cheaper accommodations: Find killer deals on lift-and-stay packages—like these from Ski.com.
• Better weather: T-shirt skiing and patio breaks? Yes, please.
• Longer lift hours: More daylight = more runs. Simple math.
• Festive vibes: Think DJs on the slopes and neon ski outfits from the ’80s. Seriously.

Top Spring Skiing Destinations Around the World

1. Whistler Blackcomb, Canada: Whistler in spring feels like a snow lover’s version of a beach town. You’ve got epic skiing until May, music pumping through the village, and patios packed with sun-seekers. Horstman Glacier keeps the snow going strong while the après scene spills into sunny decks. For deals, check out Whistler Blackcomb’s spring packages—they start dropping in April.

• Spring bonus: Discounted lift tickets and event-filled weekends
• Après must: Sip a craft Caesar at The Longhorn Saloon

2. Mammoth Mountain, California, USA: If you want to ski on the Fourth of July, Mammoth’s your spot. Thanks to sky-high elevation and hefty snowfall, this resort often keeps the lifts spinning deep into summer. The spring scene includes live DJs, sun-drenched corn snow, and laid-back terrain parks that are ideal for riders of all levels. If you’re in SoCal, it’s an easy road trip too—Mammoth Mountain posts regular spring deals and lift bundles.

• Spring bonus: $99 lift deals and parking-lot tailgates
• Après must: Yodler’s sundeck, with brats and beer

3. Zermatt, Switzerland: You haven’t really skied until you’ve stared down the Matterhorn while carving glacier snow. Zermatt is luxurious, scenic, and surprisingly uncrowded in spring. The glacier terrain sits so high that conditions stay strong late into the season, and the après scene feels like something out of a Bond movie. To make the most of your trip, plan your stay through Zermatt’s official site for package deals and event updates.

• Spring bonus: Snow-sure runs above 3,000m with bluebird skies
• Après must: Papperla Pub’s beer garden and live music

4. Riksgränsen, Sweden: Riksgränsen is the north star of spring skiing destinations. Literally. Perched way above the Arctic Circle, it offers runs under the midnight sun in May and powder days in June. It’s raw, wild, and built for adventurous skiers. For a full Arctic skiing itinerary, check out their official tourism page.

• Spring bonus: Sunlight skiing until 10 p.m. with barely anyone around
• Après must: Cloudberry liqueur at the lodge bar—uniquely Swedish

5. Tignes, France: France isn’t just for wine and cheese—though you’ll find plenty of both here. Tignes delivers high-altitude glacier runs and spring ski camps perfect for leveling up your game. Linked with Val d’Isère, it’s part of one of the most extensive ski networks in Europe. Stay slopeside or try one of the nearby luxury chalets listed on Alps Holidays.

• Spring bonus: Terrain parks and freestyle sessions well into May
• Après must: La Folie Douce: think cabaret meets dance club

6. Hintertux Glacier, Austria: Austria’s answer to eternal winter is Hintertux. It’s open all year and ideal for those looking to ski long after spring’s arrived in the valley. From its perfectly groomed runs to its panoramic lifts, this is one of the most reliable spring skiing destinations in Europe. You can scope trail maps and terrain park details at Hintertux Glacier’s site.

• Spring bonus: Guaranteed snow even in June
• Après must: Cozy up at Spannagelhaus mountain hut with schnitzel and schnapps

7. Banff Sunshine Village, Canada: Banff in spring is a postcard that comes to life. The snow sticks around late into May, and the Slush Cup pond skim is reason enough to make the trip. You’ll be skiing with elk and mountain peaks as your backdrop, and the vibe is unbeatable. For updates on spring passes and events, head over to Sunshine Village.

• Spring bonus: May’s Slush Cup: costumes, spills, and big air
• Après must: Mad Trapper’s is as classic as it gets

Tips for Successful Spring Skiing

Want to make the most of your trip? Spring skiing has its quirks, but a few tricks will keep you gliding happy. These are the tips I swear by every time I hit one of these spring skiing destinations:

• Start early: Snow’s crispest before noon. Snooze, and you’re skiing mashed potatoes.
• Layer up: Chilly mornings and warm afternoons require flexible outfits.
• Use spring wax: Yes, it exists—and yes, it matters in sticky snow.
• Hydrate: Altitude + sun = dry mouth and low energy.
• Sunscreen up: Reflective snow doubles your UV exposure—don’t forget ears and nose!

Spring Skiing for Beginners: Yes, You Can!

Here’s a secret: spring is actually the best time to learn to ski. Falls are softer, the sun is friendlier, and the crowds have thinned out. I always recommend beginners look for mellow greens with wide space to build confidence. Resorts like Park City, Cervinia, and Lake Louise are known for great grooming and excellent instructors.

• Top picks for beginners: Park City (Utah), Cervinia (Italy), Lake Louise (Canada)

Have you been to any of these spring skiing destinations? Got a tip that saved your spring trip? Drop a comment and let’s share the stoke. Spring skiing is all about community, good vibes, and soaking up that end-of-season magic. Want more updates? Follow us on socials for gear reviews, hidden gem resorts, and last-minute snow reports.