Queenstown - the place to be, ski and snowboard in winter
In the heart of the Southern Alps awaits four epic ski areas, offering quality snow, terrain for all levels and easy access within a 20 - 45 minute drive from Queenstown. Our long ski season runs from June until October, with everything from learner slopes and freestyle parks, to untouched powder in the backcountry, plus quality ski and snowboarding services such as transport, gear hire and instructors on offer.
Top it all off with our on-mountain cafes and bars, epic aprés scene, a spa day or music festival, and you’ve got a winter holiday you’ll want to repeat next year. And the year after that.
Learn more about our four ski fields, all accessible within a 90 minute drive from Queenstown's town centre and offering a variety of terrain to suit all levels of skiier.
Skiing for All Abilities
No matter if you're a beginner skiier, seasoned skiier, or an expert seeking the challenge of a double-black diamond run, Queenstown offers on-piste and off-piste skiing for all abilities.
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Spring is a magical time of year to ski or snowboard in Queenstown – the snow is forgiving and fun, and the days are longer and warmer.
FAQs
When is ski season in Queenstown?
Queenstown's ski season typically runs from mid-June to early October. Our four mountains, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona Alpine Resort and Treble Cone usually open in mid-June (weather dependent) and remain open until early October. The peak winter period is July and August, when snow conditions are generally at their best.
How to get to the ski fields from Queenstown?
Drive: Coronet Peak is about 20 minutes from Queenstown, and The Remarkables is around 45 minutes. Both have car parks, though snow chains may be needed in winter and priorty parking may be enforced on peak days, meaning that if you have three or more people in your car, you'll have priority parking up top.
Shuttle Service: Several companies offer shuttle services from Queenstown to the ski fields, with pick-ups from central locations or hotels, making it a convenient option.
Ski Field Buses: The ski areas all operate their own buses from Queenstown, often with multiple departure times to fit your schedule. Book a spot in advance, hop on and relax.
How many ski resorts are there in Queenstown?
Queenstown's region offers access to four diverse ski resorts. The closest fields are Coronet Peak (25 minutes from town) and The Remarkables (45 minutes), both perfect for day trips from Queenstown. Within driving distance you'll also find Cardrona Alpine Resort (60 minutes) and Treble Cone (90 minutes) near Wanaka. Each mountain offers a unique experience: Coronet Peak is known for its rolling terrain and night skiing, The Remarkables for its spectacular alpine views and terrain parks, Cardrona for its extensive facilities and Olympic training grounds, and Treble Cone for its challenging terrain and off-piste skiing. Find out more about the four ski areas here.
