Austrian Ski Resorts Prepare For Spring With 70cms Of Fresh Snow

Late-Season Snowfall Boosts Austrian Ski Resorts

Austrian ski resorts have received a welcome boost with up to 70cm of fresh snow falling in recent days. This late-season snowfall has significantly improved conditions across the country, particularly at higher elevations. While many smaller, lower-altitude resorts have closed for the season, larger ski areas are taking full advantage of the new snow to extend their operations. Some resorts are even planning to remain open into May, offering skiers and riders the chance to enjoy spring skiing in prime conditions.

The recent snowfall has been particularly beneficial for Austrian resorts, with the Stubai Glacier reporting an impressive 70cm of new snow. Other areas like the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier and the Arlberg region have also seen substantial accumulations, creating powder conditions on their slopes. This fresh snow has arrived at an opportune time, allowing many resorts to maintain good coverage for the Easter holiday period and beyond.

Outside of Austria, other European ski destinations are also faring well. Spain's Sierra Nevada currently boasts Europe's deepest snowpack at 3 metres, while resorts in the Pyrenees enjoyed a strong end to March with 20-40cm of new snow. In France, high-altitude resorts like Val Thorens and the rest of the Three Valleys ski area continue to offer extensive skiing, with over 500km of slopes still open.

However, the situation varies across Europe. Many lower-altitude resorts have already closed for the season, and even some larger areas are planning to wind down operations in the coming weeks. The freezing level is gradually rising, with rain and sleet becoming more common at lower elevations.

As the ski season enters its final weeks, the recent snowfall in Austria and other high-altitude European resorts provides a silver lining for skiers and riders looking to make the most of the remaining winter. While warmer temperatures and sunny spells are forecast for the immediate future, the substantial base depths at many resorts should ensure good skiing conditions well into April and even May for some areas.

For those planning late-season ski trips, it's advisable to focus on higher-altitude resorts that have benefited from recent snowfall and have the infrastructure to maintain their slopes as temperatures rise. With many resorts offering spring skiing deals and less crowded slopes, there's still time to enjoy some quality turns before the season comes to a close.