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After the storm. Fresh dry powder snow at 8,000 feet in Central Chile on the road to La Parva.
What are the differences in snow conditions when comparing Chile versus Argentina? It really depends on where in Chile or Argentina you are considering skiing or snowboarding. Because of the vast distances and varied geography, we like to break it down into 3 sections:
1. Central Chile and Argentina
Chile Ski Resorts: Portillo, Valle Nevado, La Parva, El Colorado
Argentina Ski Resort: Las Lenas
These popular ski areas are all alpine (above treeline so no tree skiing), high altitude ski resorts and tend to receive very dry powder snow. Altitudes are similar to Colorado in the USA from 8,000 to 14,000 feet. These areas get less precipitation than Patagonia, but when there is precipitation, 99% of the time it is snow, not rain. The steepest skiing of these areas are in Portillo, La Parva, and Las Lenas. Las Lenas has by far the steepest terrain in all South America. These ski resorts are also some of the most modern with high end hotels, high speed chair lifts, and better ski schools and infrastructure.
2. Northern Patagonia/Lake District
Chile Ski Resorts: Corralco, Pucon, Antillanca
Argentina Ski Resorts: Chapelco, Cerro Bayo
These Patagonian resorts receive a lot of precipitation. Usually snow, but like the Pacific Northwest of the USA or Whistler, Canada, temperatures rise and they get some rain. There is good tree skiing in these areas, with the exception of Corralco and Pucon in Chile which are pretty clear because they are volcanoes. (Ok, technically you can find small patches of trees to ride at lower elevations.) Here by far the Argentina side has better weather, better infrastructure, better terrain, and better skiing over all. However our guests are still attracted to the Chilean side as skiing an active volcano is a pretty amazing experience and you can find good terrain if you know where you are going.
3: Patagonia
Chile Resorts: Nothing worth mentioning
Argentina Resorts: Alta Patagonia-Catedral and La Hoya
Alta Patagonia near Bariloche has invested millions of $ over the past few years and is now one of the best resorts in South America. Good infrastructure and a lot of variable skiable terrain from high alpine bowls to tree skiing.
La Hoya is much smaller, but has some good steep skiing and is worth checking out. It is also one of the coldest areas in Argentina for skiing so the powder stays pure and the season can extend well into October.
Wait, What about Chillan in Chile?
Finally there is one destination in Chile that is in an area of its’ own called Termas de Chillan (since change of owner in 2009 it is now called Nevados de Chillan) It has the best of both Central Chile and the Lake District. Heavy snow fall, but good snow quality and it has a great mix of alpine skiing and trees. The volcano is massive. You could ski here for seasons and not explore everything. It is recommended to ski with a guide to maximize the experience.
If you have any questions we have over 20 years experience dealing with snow condition differences in the Andes. Feel free to reach out to PowderQuest.
