Where To Go For Snow In July

July is normally when the winter ski season in the southern hemisphere starts rolling. So, if you're in the northern part of the equator, it doesn't mean you have to wait until December to start thinking about skiing. Three fabulous spots to consider for some choice July skiing are Treble Cone in New Zealand, Falls Creek Alpine Resort in Australia, and Chapelco in Argentina.

Chapelco, Argentina

In the beautiful area of Patagonia lies Chapelco, the most panoramic ski resort in Argentina. An international ski destination, Chapelco is located at an altitude of 1,980 metres and continues to attract visitors from all over the world. The resort offers 22 trails that cater to all difficulties and the snow is of excellent quality. Not only does Chapelco allow excellent skiing, but it offers you beautiful views of Lake Lácar and of the Lanín Volcano

Getting There

From out of the country, you would fly into Argentina's international airport. Then, use ground transportation to go to San Martîn de los Andes and from there take Route 234, which borders Lake Lácar. Next, you turn into National Route 19 and drive 5 km to get to the mountain's base.

Terrain & Difficulty Level

One of the safest and most reliable ski resorts in Patagonia, Chapelco is home to 140 hectares of skiable area, slopes that range from 20º to 45º, and a 730-metre vertical drop. All areas are patrolled by qualified teams watching the trails from fixed posts across the mountain. You can practise several modalities of ski, including alpine, nordic skate, telemark, and randonee. Plus, there is the Snowboard park where snowboarders can display their skills in all four sport categories: the half pipe, the parallel slalom, the big air and the fun park. 

For those who are less skilled in skiing, there is plenty of space for beginner's to practise and improve. Additionally, Chapelco also offers snowmobile tours, sleds pulled by Siberian huskies, and snow-shoe walks through untouched snowy woodlands.

Food & Accomodation 

There are first class restaurants in the resort as well as clothing stores, ski rentals, and day-care facilities. Lodging is located at the base of the mountain where you will also find medical assistance, phones, Internet access and an information office. There are shuttles that go from the base to the top of the mountain throughout the day as well.

Full lodging facilities, restaurants, and shops can be found at the nearby town of San Martín de los Andes, which is one of Argentina's most lovely villages in the lake district.

Safety Concerns

Chapelco's safety precautions ensure that your stay at this impressive resort will be a pleasant one. However, as with any extreme sport, you should still use caution when out in the slopes. Wearing a helmet is a must whether you are a beginner or seasoned professional. Being safe will make your vacation a memorable one as well as an injury-free one. It wouldn't be a bad idea either to purchase Ski Insurance, it's always a good idea to be covered in case of an incident.

Treble Cone, New Zealand

Treble Cone is the largest ski area in New Zealand's South Island and July, especially the second half, is the best time to visit. Dry powder snow storms are plenty, and the steep trails, cliff-laden chutes, and wide runs are magnificent for intermediate and expert skiers. While it's mostly a resort for hard-core skiers, there still are some trails designated for beginners.

Falls Creek, Australia

Australia's Falls Creek Alpine Resort offers prime skiing in July and August with 25 miles of cross country terrain. About 60 percent of this resort's terrain is geared towards intermediate skiers, but there are areas for beginners as well. Falls Creek has 15 lifts that serve over 1,000 acres of skiing grounds, all of which make up 3 terrain parks.

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