7 Reasons Why You Should Ski in April

I do understand the hesitancy to commit to a ski trip later in the spring. Climate change has been top of people's minds and the Alps - where over 90% of UK skiers head every winter (and where I used to go too) - have sadly been badly affected at the end of the season, particularly in recent years.

This winter, even during the usually reliable months of January and February, the snow has been less than satisfactory in the Alps.

The key to snowsure slopes even in late season? I say very simply, it’s time to explore outside of the Alps!

So, what can you expect from skiing destinations such as Norway, Sweden, Canada and the USA in April?

By Andy Hemingway, Sales Manager / Norway & Sweden Product Manager

Those in the know have been enjoying the delights of snowsure skiing in April for years. In fact, USA & Canada Product Manager Rupert was treated to a number of fun-filled powder days when he visited Norefjell in April last year.

If you pictured the slopes in April as a green and muddy mess, you’d be wrong! By the time we reach the tail end of the season, the snowpack is incredibly stable. Across the pond in Banff, March historically averages 47 inches of snowfall which contributes to a deep snow depth of 71 inches at the resort base for the start of April.

Want a snow fix this season, but not sure which resort would be best for you? Read our Where to Ski this Winter blog. 

So, with springs' solid snowpacks and regular top-ups enhancing your skiing experience, what would take the conditions to the next level?

When the snow isn’t getting topped up, your goggle tan will be. April is well-known for milder temperatures and sunny days. When you’re not whizzing down the mountain in a jumper or even a t-shirt, you’ll be making the most of the patio parties on the sun terrace.

Alternatively, for those wishing to stay clear of après parties, spring is a sensational time of year for a spot of alfresco dining with the family. A hearty burger and diet Coke in the sunshine? Yes please! There’s no rush to ski back down from the restaurant because of the light fading either…

Naturally, the days are longer in spring compared to the winter months which means the lifts stay open that extra bit longer in April. There’s nothing worse than when you're finally linking your turns for the first time or you’ve found your rhythm, only for the sun to dip behind the mountain all too soon.

As the sun doesn’t set until 8:15pm in Norwegian resorts such as Norefjell, there’s far more time to fit in non-skiing activities like horse-drawn sleigh rides or a wholesome stroll through the town in the evening.

Although the extra hours of daylight will enable you to squeeze the most out of your time in the mountains, there’s another reason you’ll be maximising your time on the pistes…

Resorts tend to be quietest in April, even over the Easter break. As a result, you spend no time hanging around the rental shop picking up your gear. Instead, you can head straight to the lifts where you’re greeted by a clear path onto the chair. Once at the top, it’s a case of clicking into your skis or strapping into your snowboard and enjoying the slopes all to yourself. 

Although it may be peaceful on the pistes towards the end of the season, back at base it's a different story…

There’s only one way to celebrate a fantastic winter season in the mountains, and this usually involves throwing a rather large shindig. End of season events come in many different formats. From Geilo’s “Biggest Easter Party” with plenty of live music, to “Open Klasse” in Myrkdalen, where freestyle skiers and snowboarders show off their wildest tricks in the park.

I know what you’re thinking to yourself “Surely all this incredible snow, sunshine and culture is going to come at an extra cost?”

In the same way that a train ticket is cheaper when travelling during off-peak times, April skiing shares a similar perk. Most resorts will count this period as the “off-season” and this includes the Easter break.

Ski with the family over the Easter holidays for just £705pp - discover our latest offers and prices for Easter 2024.

Spring is often the most cost-effective time to travel, especially if you’re tied to the school holidays. If you’re striving to treat the family to a week on the mountains, but working with a modest budget, there are some fantastic end of season deals to be had.

Ski this April from as little as £1080pp - find our latest ski prices and offers for April 2024.

To those unfamiliar with the concept of a ‘Ski Safari’ you have the option to discover more of the country you’re visiting by combining multiple resorts or cities on one trip. The reasons I’ve previously alluded to makes spring a fantastic time to visit multiple destinations you’ve always wanted to see and ski.

Moving from destination to destination by car in April is a breeze. Driving at this time of year is far more relaxing because the milder temperatures mean there’s far less snow or ice to worry about.

Train transfers are incredibly scenic as well. Green shoots emerge through snowy landscapes as the countryside undergoes a beautiful transformation. This can all be enjoyed in comfort before the influx of summer travellers start to fill up the carriages.

Our recommendation for a Ski Safari in April 2024 is the Fjords and Mountains Ski Safari. This epic adventure features the Oslo to Bergen railway as you journey through Norway's breathtaking scenery and stop in some of the country's best ski resorts.

The pleasant temperatures make exploring a new city far more enjoyable. Similarly to dining on the mountain, the climate brings the option of enjoying a coffee or lunch outside whilst taking in the hustle and bustle of an iconic city.

Additionally, there aren't as many crowds moving about the streets, so you have room to breathe and stroll freely around attractions.

If you're still not sure which resort would be best for you this winter, read our Where to Ski this Season blog.

There's still time to book for this winter! However, now the benefits of April skiing have been revealed, it won't be long until our remaining availability is snapped up. If you're keen to hit the slopes at the end of the season, check out our offers for April 2024.

Have your sights set on April 2025? You can find all our prices and offers for spring next year as well.

To secure some late-season snow, enquire online or call our friendly, knowledgeable team on 01273 224060.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram for updates from our team and customers throughout the winter.