10 Mountains We're Looking Forward to Snowboarding this Season
Although we always mourn the end of summer, the gradual cooling and darkening of the following months brings several things to look forward to. For starters, there's the holidays where giving and receiving presents is a guarantee and overeating is not only accepted, but encouraged. Furthermore, holiday cheer is in abundance, the word “cozy” finally means something again, and Will Smith releases another blockbuster film. Our favorite thing of all about the winter, however, is how we're once again able to lace up our boots, strap on our bindings, and hit the slopes.
We've compiled a list of our 10 favorite mountains from all over the world. Spanning up and down North America, across Europe, and to the Far East, our picks include mountains that offer it all—parks, off-trail, backcountry and more. Scroll through to see which mountains we're looking forward to shredding this winter.
Whistler/Blackcomb, Canada
Home to the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler has consistently ranked as one of North America's premier mountain resorts. The mountain covers 8,171 acres of skiable area and receives an average snowfall of 469 inches with a powder-day percentage of 22 percent. Of course, terrain parks are a given, while other luxurious amenities like extra-wide lift lanes make Whistler an absolute must for those that seek outstanding marks in both quality and quantity.
Mammoth Mountain, California
The mountain’s diverse landscape has sweeping views and top-notch terrain parks. Its placement in sunny California ensures around 300 days of sunshine per year and its eight terrain parks, in combination with 18- and 22-foot pipes, attract the likes of professional snowboarders like Shaun White. Needless to say, Mammoth is without a doubt our favorite spot on the West Coast.
Verbier, Switzerland
As the main resort in Switzerland's largest ski area, Verbier's attractiveness extends far beyond its incredible 250 miles of runs. The challenging terrain and a bustling nightlife attracts experienced snowboarders from all over the world, while anyone venturing to the top will appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area, including views of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. Although the Swiss franc can be a bit of a setback, careful travel planning will ensure you get the most bang for your buck.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge or "Brek" is one the most sought after snowboard destinations in the world. The mountain is also home to the Winter Dew Tour, the last stop on the Dew Tour. This year the event goes down December 12th-15th with a roster of competitors that includes Danny Davis, Scotty Lago, Loiue Vito, and Shaun White.
Les Arcs, France
As beautiful as it is convenient, Les Arcs lies right next to Bourg St. Marice, the main train station for the Alps, and offers different vibes in each of its various areas. A wide range of terrain and tree riding ensures something for everyone and the beautifully designed villages will keep you entranced long after you've left the slopes.
Mayrhofen, Austria
Mayrhofen lies in the heart of the Austrian Alps, so it's no wonder the mountain has become the home of Austrian snowboarding. The Vans Penken Park offers its own lift alongside a series of kickers, rails and boxes, and is divided into three ability levels. In addition, the mountain plays host to world-class events like the Aesthetiker Jam and the Snowbombing Weekend, bringing it up to par with other five-star resort towns for a fraction of the cost.
Aspen, Colorado
The home of 10 consecutive Winter X Games, Aspen has gone from America's best-kept secret for snowboarders to its worst. Long disguised as a posh getaway for the elite, the mountain resort has since gone on to garner a different reputation, one that represents its endless runs and soft powder. If you happen to love snowboarding and belong to the elite, no other mountain in America compares.
Big Sky, Montana
Often overlooked perhaps because of its location, Montana's Big Sky trademarks itself as the “Biggest Skiing in America” thanks to its 5,532 acres of skiable terrain. Not for the faint of heart, the mountain is home to some of the country's most challenging runs with trails that begin far above the tree line and come in all degrees of steepness. It goes without saying that simpler runs are available as well, but for the best of Big Sky, you'll have to get your adrenaline going.
Niseko, Japan
The quiet town of Niseko is located in the Hokkaido prefecture of Japan, and thanks to the constant downpour of snow, gondolas and most chairlifts are covered, providing a welcome break after long runs. A low altitude almost guarantees you'll never experience true whiteout conditions like you might in North America or Europe, so you won't waste a day trapped inside experiencing borderline cabin fever.
Wanaka, New Zealand
Somehow it doesn't feel right to group Wanaka in with the rest of these picks because of how open and free this mountain appears. Regardless, Wanaka is home to some of New Zealand's best resorts. With no trees in sight and nothing but white snow as far as the eye can see, run options are endless and local ski clubs guarantee a tight-knit community unlike anything a resort can offer.
Although we always mourn the end of summer, the gradual cooling and darkening of the following months brings several things to look forward to. For starters, there’s the holidays where giving and receiving presents is a guarantee and overeating is not only accepted, but encouraged. Furthermore, holiday cheer is in abundance, the word “cozy” finally means something again, and Will Smith releases another blockbuster film. Our favorite thing of all about the winter, however, is how we’re once again able to lace up our boots, strap on our bindings, and hit the slopes.
We’ve compiled a list of our 10 favorite mountains from all over the world. Spanning up and down North America, across Europe, and to the Far East, our picks include mountains that offer it all—parks, off-trail, backcountry and more. Scroll through to see which mountains we’re looking forward to shredding this winter.