Top 10 Snowy Mountain Destinations for Winter Adventures
Snowy mountains hold their own bit of magic.
Crisp air, glittering white peaks and the thrill of winter sports make them ideal for adventurous getaways.
I’ve always considered snowy mountain destinations a combination of peaceful beauty and action, whether you’re hitting the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding, or just cozying up by a crackling fire and enjoying the view.
Whether you’re arranging your next winter getaway or just looking for ideas for your dream destination, this guide has the 10 best snowy mountain destinations that offer unforgettable adventures.
From international ski destinations to lesser-known getaways, these places have something for every type of traveler.
1. Aspen, Colorado, USA
Aspen is well known as a top winter destination, and it deserves its reputation.
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, this picturesque town includes four world-class ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk.
Outside of skiing, Aspen has an upscale atmosphere with high-end lodges, fine dining and boutique shopping.
Visitors can go snowshoeing or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered valleys. For après-ski, the town’s vibrant nightlife has lots of offerings.
2. Zermatt, Switzerland
Skirting the bottom of the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is a dream for winter sport aficionados. Add to that its car-free village environment, making it an alluring escape from busy city life.
Zermatt offers more than 200 miles of ski trails, and its high-altitude location guarantees that snow levels will be good throughout the season.
Be sure to visit the Glacier Paradise, where you can marvel at sculptures made of ice and at stunning views. The town also has chalets and Swiss fine dining.
3. Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
The dream of every adventurer comes true in Whistler Blackcomb, North America’s largest ski resort.
With more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, it is suitable for all levels.
Whistler the pedestrian village has much to offer — art galleries, pubs, etc.
Away from the slopes, make like a bird and zip-line through snowy forests, or kick back in the Scandinave Spa. But it is the Peak 2 Peak Gondola that attracts most visitors.
4. Chamonix, France
Chamonix, in the French Alps, is the cradle of modern mountaineering.
It’s an adventurer’s paradise with activities, including ice climbing, glacier hiking and world-class skiing.
The resort’s majestic peaks provide a spectacular backdrop for wintry sports.
After a day’s skiing, enjoy robust Alpine fare at a neighborhood bistro. Chamonix is also the gateway to Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s tallest peak.
5. Niseko, Japan
Renowned for its spectacular powder snow, Niseko on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido is a pilgrimage for serious skiers and snowboarders.
The resort consists of four separate areas that connect but each have their own flair.
It also provides the opportunity to unwind in traditional Japanese hot springs, or onsen, after day of winter fun.
Visitors can partake in authentic Japanese cuisine, including sushi and soul-warming bowls of ramen.
6. Banff, Alberta, Canada
Situated in the glorious Banff National Park, this mountain town is all about jaw-dropping nature.
Banff Golf Resort Lake Louise While ski resorts in Banff (Lake Louise, Sunshine Village and Mount Norquay) boast world-class skiing.
That’s not to mention frozen waterfalls, like the ones at Johnston Canyon, or taking a scenic gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain.
The town itself is lovely with charming cafés and local shops.
7. St. Anton, Austria
Revered as the “cradle of alpine skiing,” St. Anton is a postcard-perfect resort in Austria’s Tyrolean Alps.
Its large ski areas and lively après-ski culture have made it a favorite for winter sports enthusiasts.
For the less active, there’s winter hiking, or you can go on a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-dusted forests.
The village itself is hunched up in timeless Alpine coziness, traditional Austrian hospitality blended like a well-measured splash of schnapps with a home-style pinch of everything.
8. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina d’Ampezzo, nicknamed the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is a chic resort town in northern Italy.
It’s known for its spectacular limestone peaks and stylish vibe.
Cortina has top-notch upscale skiing — but it also offers snowshoeing and ice climbing, among other thrills. The town boasts high-end boutiques, gourmet Italian cuisine and a lively après-ski scene.
9. Park City, Utah, USA
Park City mixes Hollywood glamor with ski and snowboard excellence, the former being the home of the Sundance Film Festival.
Park City Mountain Resort is among the largest in the U.S., while Deer Valley provides a more exclusive ski experience.
The town’s Main Street, a historic stretch, is ideal for wandering, with art galleries, restaurants and local shops.
For a more unique adventure, you can also ride on the Alpine Coaster or grab a dog sledding tour.
10. Queenstown, New Zealand
But Queenstown, located in the Southern Hemisphere, has earned a place on every winter travel list.
Its alpine terrain makes for excellent skiing at resorts including The Remarkables and Coronet Peak.
It’s also the adventure capital of New Zealand, offering activities such as bungee jumping, snowmobiling and heli-skiing.
Its lively nightlife, along with stunning lake views, contribute to its charm.
TL;DR Top 10 snow capped mountains in winter
But snowy mountain spots are winter adventurers’ ideal playgrounds.
Each has its own combination of exciting activities, stunning scenery and inviting places to relax after a day of fun.
Whether you’re shredding the slopes in Aspen, relaxing in an onsen in Niseko or gawking at the Matterhorn in Zermatt, these are each destination’s must-do experiences.
As you plan your next winter escape, consider visiting these particular destinations for the beauty of snowy peaks.
Grab your gear, get the slopes, and enjoy the pure magic of a winter adventure.
The mountains are calling — will you answer?
