Skiing Beyond the Season: Best Places for Summer Glacier Skiing

29 September 2025

When you think of skiing, you probably imagine snowy peaks, frosty winds, and mug after mug of hot cocoa by a roaring fire. Winter, right? But what if I told you that the thrill of carving down snow-covered slopes doesn’t have to end with the last snowfall? Yep, summer skiing is a real thing—on glaciers. And it’s not just for the pros.

So, pack your sunscreen (yes, sunscreen), grab your goggles, and get ready because we’re going skiing under the summer sun. This is your insider guide to the best spots for summer glacier skiing—the coolest way to heat up your vacation plans.

Wait, Summer Skiing? Is That Even a Thing?

Absolutely. And it’s not some quirky, once-in-a-lifetime gimmick either. Glacier skiing involves slopes that sit high—really high—above sea level, where eternal snow and ice cling to the mountains all year. Mother Nature may melt the snow in your backyard, but up here, the ski season never really ends.

Not only is it possible, but it’s also incredibly awesome. Think way fewer crowds, surprisingly crisp snow, and a surreal mix of warm sunshine and icy runs. It's like skiing inside a snow globe that forgot it was summer outside.

Why Ski in Summer? (Besides Bragging Rights)

You're probably wondering—why trade your beach towel for ski poles in July? Here's why skiing in summer is worth every snowflake:

- Beat the Crowds: Summer slopes are way less crowded than peak season.
- Perfect Weather: Ski in a hoodie or a light shell. No more frostbite fears.
- Stay Sharp: Great for skiers and snowboarders looking to keep skills fresh.
- Unreal Vibes: The contrast of snow under your boots and sunshine on your face? Pure magic.

Still not convinced? Let me walk you through the best places on Earth where summer glacier skiing isn’t just possible—it’s totally epic.

1. Zermatt, Switzerland – Where Ski Dreams Meet the Matterhorn

If skiing were a luxury brand, Zermatt would be its flagship store. Nestled beneath the iconic jagged peaks of the Matterhorn, Zermatt’s Klein Matterhorn Glacier is open 365 days a year. Yup, you read that right.

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise sits at a breathtaking 3,883 meters, making it the highest summer ski area in Europe. You’ll find up to 21 kilometers of skiable terrain—even in July. That’s not just a snow patch—it’s a playground.

Why Go:
- Europe's highest cable car for jaw-dropping views
- Reliable snow and perfectly groomed pistes
- A favorite training spot for international ski teams

Pro Tip: Wake up early. Mornings offer the best snow conditions, and by noon, you can be sipping a cold drink on a sunny terrace. Not too shabby, right?

2. Tignes, France – The Hidden Alpine Gem

Tignes is like France’s secret skiing weapon. It doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but those in the know? They head here when the snow melts elsewhere.

The Grande Motte Glacier opens for summer skiing from late June through early August. It offers about 20 km of marked runs, plus freestyle zones and mogul fields. Whether you're a park rat or a powder chaser, Tignes has a little something for everyone.

Why Go:
- Tons of variety for all skill levels
- Snowpark for tricksters and snowboarders
- Quick access from town—no half-day commutes

Insider Note: The glacier opens early (think sunrise), and it’s best to hit the slopes before 12 pm. After that, your skis might start making slushy sounds.

3. Hintertux Glacier, Austria – The All-Year Ski Mecca

If there were a ski resort that shrugged off the whole “seasonal” concept, it’s Hintertux. Open 365 days a year, this Austrian glacier is one of the few spots where it's literally always ski season.

Located in the Tyrol region, the glacier offers up to 60 km of skiable terrain in peak glacier months, with 20 km typically open during summer.

Why Go:
- Year-round skiing paradise
- Pristine Austrian alpine views
- Great for beginners and pros alike

What Makes It Unique: Hintertux is home to the Natural Ice Palace, an otherworldly cave system deep inside the glacier. Picture blue ice halls, frozen waterfalls, and an underground lake—yes, it’s as mystical as it sounds.

4. Whistler Blackcomb, Canada – The North American Snow Haven

Okay, technically not open every summer, but when it is, Whistler’s Horstman Glacier on Blackcomb Mountain is unbeatable. Located in British Columbia, it's the go-to for ski training camps and those chasing North American summer turns.

The glacier usually opens for skiing in June and July and caters mostly to camps—but day passes are sometimes available.

Why Go:
- North America’s largest and most legendary resort
- Access to ski camps, terrain parks, and coaching
- Epic après-ski scene (even in summer)

Heads Up: You’ll need to take a few lifts and a bus to reach the glacier. It's a bit of a journey—but think of it as a pilgrimage to the snow gods.

5. Passo dello Stelvio, Italy – A Vintage Ski Scene with Modern Passion

Underrated but oh-so-cool, Passo dello Stelvio isn’t your glitzy resort scene. It’s old-school, authentic Italy—and it delivers big on character and charm.

At 3,450 meters, Stelvio offers summer skiing from May to November, depending on snow. The glacier is famous for its long, wide slopes and relaxed vibe. It feels more like a mountain community than a resort.

Why Go:
- Wide, uncrowded runs perfect for practicing technique
- Budget-friendly compared to ski giants
- Italian coffee breaks between runs? Yes, please.

Bonus: The drive up Stelvio Pass is legendary for hairpin turns and incredible vistas. It’s like a Fast & Furious scene—only with more espresso.

6. Saas-Fee, Switzerland – The "Pearl of the Alps"

Tucked away in a high Alpine valley, Saas-Fee has charm for days. Cobblestone streets, car-free zones, and traditional chalet vibes make this village feel like a fairytale. But don’t be fooled. The skiing? Next level.

The Allalin Glacier offers 20 km of summer ski terrain, along with snow parks and mogul courses. It’s also where several national teams train, so you might bump into future Olympians.

Why Go:
- Dreamy, postcard-perfect Alpine village
- Consistent snow and serious terrain
- Big vertical drops make for exciting runs

Travel Tip: The ski area opens as early as 7 a.m. If you're not a morning person—adjust. The snow doesn’t wait, and neither should you.

7. Les Deux Alpes, France – High-Energy, High-Altitude Fun

Les Deux Alpes might just be the most energetic summer ski resort in Europe. The vibe here is young, fun, and fast-paced—think beach party meets Alpine adventure.

The glacier sits at 3,600 meters with around 30 km of ski trails, and the snowpark is one of the best you’ll find anywhere—summer or winter.

Why Go:
- Massive glacier with long summer season
- Awesome terrain park scene
- Tons of off-slope activities: mountain biking, hiking, paragliding

After the Slopes: Who says après has to happen in a log cabin? Chill on a sunny patio with live music, a cold beer, and mountain views that stretch for miles.

Tips for Summer Glacier Skiing Beginners

If you’ve never skied in the off-season before, don’t worry—I’ve got your back. Here are a few things you should definitely know before you go:

1. Dress in Layers

It might feel chilly at 7 a.m., but by 10, you're sweating bullets. Dress like an onion—peel off layers as the day heats up.

2. Get an Early Start

Glacier snow gets slushy by midday. The early bird gets the best turns (and the Instagram-worthy shots).

3. Protect Your Skin

Sunburn on a ski trip? You bet. The sun reflects off the glacier and can fry your face, so don't skip the SPF.

4. Wax Your Skis

Slushy snow can slow you down. A good summer wax job keeps your skis or board gliding like butter.

5. Reserve Ahead

Summer skiing isn’t as widespread, and some places prioritize ski camps or pros. Do your homework, and book in advance.

Is It Worth It?

If you're still asking, let me put it this way—how often do you get to ski in shorts while overlooking snow-covered peaks in the middle of summer?

Summer glacier skiing is like finding a secret door in your favorite ski lodge that leads to another dimension—one where snow lives forever, lift lines don’t exist, and the sun sticks around for après. Whether you're grinding rails in Les Deux Alpes, perfecting slalom in Saas-Fee, or sipping espresso in Stelvio, you're in for a ride that’s anything but ordinary.

So next time you’re sweating through your summer, just remember: the snow never really melts—it just moves higher.