Flow Snowboarding had a chance to catch up with Chilean Ambassador Tomas Santa Maria to discuss the top 5 snowboarding trips he's been on. Have any of you guys ridden at these world class destinations?
5. El Colorado, Central Chile
This El Colorado ski resort in Chile is situated 36 kilometers from Santiago. The base resort level is 2,560 meters above sea level, on the track Los Zorros, and reaches an altitude of over 3,300 meters above sea level. The resort offers a vertical drop of 1,090 meters, spanning 112 trails and a resort area of 1,100 acres. El Colorado is easily considered one of the best resorts in South America. For more information please visit: www.elcolorado.cl
"The best ski resort in Chile if you ask me. It has the the best snowpark, steep groomers (if you are into that) and the fastest access to the best easy access backcountry in Chile, Santa Tere."
4. Cajón del Maipo, Chile
Cajón del Maipo is a canyon located in the Andean southeastern portion of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile. It encompasses the upper Maipo River basin, where the river has entrenched itself in a narrow valley.
"A dreamland for snowmobiling and splitboarding. Deep and high in the Andes. No ski resorts, only powder and steep terrain."
3. Nevados de Chillán
Nevados de Chillán is a group of stratovolcanoes located in the Andes of the Bío Bío Region, Chile, and is one of the most active volcanoes in the region. Nestled in the southern Andes on the slopes of the Chillán volcano, this resort offers a wide variety of rideable terrain and beautiful views. This region is ultimately well known for its fantastic backcountry terrain.
"A great resort in the south of Chile. On a pow day you can ride Japan-like forests or you can splitboard to an active volcano in a couple of hours. Also you can splitboard to best hot springs around, in Aguas Calientes.
2. Décima Región De Los Lagos
Décima Región De Los Lagos translates to literally Region of the Lakes. It comprises four provinces: Chiloé, Llanquihue, Osorno and Palena. The mainland portion of Los Lagos Region south of Reloncaví Sound (Palena Province) is considered part of Patagonia. This region of the Andes are well know for its ski resorts, hot springs and recreational fishing.
"If you like to boot pack or splitboard, bring your crampons and get here. You could climb and ride seven volcanoes in seven days, and so much more. The best time of the year to access this region is in the spring. (Well Chile's spring, us Northerner's Fall)
1. Haines, Alaska
Haines is known as the Adventure Capitol of Alaska, located in Haines Borough of Alaska. It is in the northern part of the Alaska Panhandle, near Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Depending on the time of year you visit, you will be far north enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Heli-skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling are a way of life in Haines. Most snowboarding takes place up on the Chilkat Pass at the Haines Summit, about 40 miles out of Haines.
"Had to include this one! It was the best snowboarding trip of my life! No descriptions needed."