Snow bunnies rejoice! It's time to strap on your boots and grab your skis as Queenstown's ski season approaches and it looks like this winter's going to be epic! Queenstown’s ski season runs from mid-June through to early October and the region's ski fields offer unbeatable views where skiers of all ages and abilities are spoiled for choice. All within driving distance, take a day trip from central Queenstown and JUCY Snooze and hit the slopes. Ski passes range from single day, to multi-peak or season passes, which are available for purchase online.
Coronet Peak
Easily accessible and only a 25 minute drive from central Queenstown, Coronet Peak is adored by locals and tourists alike and it’s easy to see why! If you’re still a bit wobbly on your skis, head to the novice areas away from the main trails, but if you’re a pro choose from one of the two terrain parks. Take note night owls! From late June to early September, Coronet Peak is open on Friday and Saturday nights so you can ski to your heart's content! Park up at Heidi’s hut for an afternoon bevvy over at Rock Gully, or relax at the base building and admire the view of what really is a winter wonderland.
Jump on the Coronet Peak Ski Bus, which loops through central Queenstown via many popular hostels and hotels. If you're self-driving, ensure you're in a suitable vehicle equipped with snow chains. For more information on transport and directions, visit the Coronet Peak website.
The Remarkables
The Remarkables … the name really does say it all! Only a 40-minute drive from downtown Queenstown, your trip isn’t complete without visiting. From the dual-sided beginners slope, along with the Freestyle Zone, The Stash, and the Sugar Bowl for the pros, there’s something for every snow lover! For those not so sure about skiing or snowboarding, the tubing park will have you grinning from ear to ear! The three food outlets - Rastusburn Coffee Bar, The Remarkables Café, and The Remarkables Restaurant also mean you won’t go hungry during your day full of epic adventures.
If you're travelling from Central Queenstown, hop on the Remarkables Ski Bus. Alternatively, self-drive up the mountain but make sure your vehicle is fitted with snow chains! Check out their website for further details and winter driving tips.
Cardrona
Closer to Wanaka but well worth a day trip is Cardrona. Boasting two halfpipes, a gravity-X course and a big air jump, as well as eight food outlets and cafes, there’s something for everyone of all levels and the cafes will keep even the hangriest of people quiet! If you’ve forgotten your gear, pop into the ski and snowboard rentals shop up the mountain. Also, don’t forget to let all of your pals know about your travels and post a ‘gram of the awesome views over Wanaka! Pop into the Cardrona Hotel and bar at the bottom of the mountain on your way back to Queenstown and take a step back in time to the gold rush era in this quaint little pub.
If you're staying in Queenstown or Wanaka, Cardrona offers shuttle and bus services from both resort towns, or park at the bottom of the mountain and catch the shuttle up to the ski field. For further information and pricing, take a look at the Cardrona website.
Treble Cone
There’s snow place like it! As the largest ski field in the Southern Lakes District, Treble Cone is famous for its uncrowded piste and off-piste trails and the awesome facilities for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities! The two basins - the Saddle basin and Home basin offer epic free riding trails, sure to make your mouth drop as you’re in awe of the view. If you’re a pro and after an adrenaline-rush, the Saddle basin and Summit Slopes are where it’s at! Mother nature has also carved out her own natural half pipes and fun drops up at Treble Cone that’ll have you wondering why you haven’t visited before! For beginners, head over to the slopes alongside the Base lodge and café or sign yourself up for a group lesson to learn how it’s done!
There are two courtesy bus options to help you get to Treble Cone - the Wanaka Treble Cone bus or the shuttle from the bottom of the mountain. Find out more about the different transport options on their website!
