Many people are now getting COVID-19 vaccines and in the months ahead, many millions more will be vaccinated. Hopefully, the COVID-19 pandemic will come under control in the coming months and life can get back to normal. When that does happen, some people may take a long-needed vacation. That’s why Douglas Greenberg is covering the best post-COVID ski spots.
“Many of us have been spending long periods of time inside. I know that once social distancing ends, I’m going to be looking to take a vacation. And right now, a nice ski trip sounds perfect,” Douglas Greenberg says.
So when could social distancing end? While the COVID-19 vaccines currently being used are proving to be very effective, it may take months before enough can be produced to give everyone who wants one, a shot.
“Winter is here, and there are tons of great winter ski spots in the United States. Unfortunately,” Douglas Greenberg says, “winter will probably pass before we get the pandemic under control and social distancing is eased. But that’s okay, there are still great spring and summer ski opportunities.”
Many experts believe that vaccines won’t be widely distributed until late winter or even the spring. By the time social distancing ends, many ski spots will be closed for the season, but Douglas Greenberg knows some great year-round and spring/summer ski spots.
“Europe offers a few year-round ski locations. Kaprun, Austria pops into mind and generally has pretty reliable, predictable snowfalls. Then there’s Les 2 Alps, France, another great option with year-round snow and plenty of lifts,” Douglas Greenberg says.
While summer skiing in Europe is an option, many ski sites are only open during the morning. As the sun rises, the mountains heat up, offering a less than ideal skiing experience.
“If you’re going to go skiing in the summer, make sure you check when the ski slopes are open,” Douglas Greenberg suggests. “A lot of slopes are closed from noon onward because of the sun and other issues.”
What about North America? There are fewer options, especially in the Continental United States. Still, Douglas Greenberg has some suggestions for great ski sites.
“Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia is one great option, and the slopes are often open until 3 PM,” Douglas Greenberg points out. “Timberline Lodge in Oregon, near Portland, also runs in the summer and is a personal favorite of mine.”
Douglas Greenberg Suggests Heading South for Summer Skiing
The best opportunities for skiing in the summer may be to go where it actually winters. In the southern hemisphere, December and January are warmer months, while July and August are colder.
“Las Lenas in Argentina offers a great ski experience as well as Portillo in Chile.
Perisher, Australia is another excellent choice, and over in New Zealand, Coronet Peak is a fantastic option,” says Douglas Greenberg. “All of these ski resorts are in the southern hemisphere, so even if COVID-19 doesn’t ease for some months, there are plenty of great summer ski opportunities.”
