The following recommendations apply only to resorts in the Northern Hemisphere.
Pre-Christmas
There may not be much snow, except at the highest resorts or those equipped with snow cannons. However, if there have been a few snowstorms, good skiing can be found. Prices are low, but all facilities may not yet be open. Resort staff and shop assistants may treat customers like guinea pigs for the 'real' season.
Christmas and New Year
This is the peak skiing season and hence expensive. Snow is not guaranteed in any but the highest resorts, which tend to fill up immediately after Christmas.
January
Low season, with quiet resorts and fairly empty runs. This is generally the coldest month, but for keen skiers a good bet.
February
The ideal month in lower resorts, with sun and good snow conditions reflected in crowds and peak prices.
March
For higher resorts, this is the perfect month, with long days, sun and good
snow. Easter Good skiing conditions can be marred by high prices and crowds,
especially around the local school holidays.
April onwards
Late spring can see some wonderful skiing, but choose a very high resort.
This is the end of the season, and resort staff may be bored and unhelpful.
Summer skiing
A few days' skiing can offer an enjoyable break during the summer. Glacier
skiing is generally available only in the mornings, before the snow becomes
slushy and the lifts close. The afternoons are spent walking, playing tennis,
wind-surfing or mountain-biking. Summer ski resorts include Hintertux and
Kaprun in Austria, Tignes in France, Saas Fee and Zermatt in Switzerland,
Mount Hood in the United States and Whistler in Canada.
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