Valle Nevado Keeps Lifts Running While the Rockies Open

Most Southern Hemisphere mountains cut their operations short by mid-October, but Valle Nevado is keeping the lifts running until November 8, 2026. This marks the latest closing date in the resort's history, a strange anomaly for a place that usually shuts down as spring hits the region. You can now ride chairlifts in Chile while early snow reports are already popping up from the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada.

This decision comes from an extraordinary winter that delivered more than 3.5 feet of fresh snow in just 48 hours recently. General Manager Dominique Rudloff called it an unprecedented season, noting that the resort will have offered 143 days of skiing since opening on June 19. For North American travelers, this creates a unique window to enjoy powder conditions in Chile before the domestic ski season truly kicks off.

A 143 Day Season

The numbers behind this extension are striking for a mountain that sits near Santiago. Valle Nevado reached 143 days of operation, a record that dwarfs its previous best. The resort originally planned to close on October 18 after a prior season extension, but the persistent snow coverage forced a rethink. The combination of the mountain's 9,925 foot elevation and its south facing terrain helped maintain strong conditions well into what is usually the off season.

This is not just a marketing ploy. The snowfall was real and substantial, transforming the slopes in ways that are unusual for this time of year. The resort's infrastructure, including five major lifts like the Gondola and Andes Express, remains fully operational. This level of reliability in the late fall is a testament to the favorable weather patterns that have dominated the region this year.

Logistics for the Late Season

Travelers planning to take advantage of this extended window should note that the mountain hotels have shut down. The bonus late season stretch is geared primarily toward day visitors. However, essential services remain fully open, including rentals, lockers, ticketing, retail, and the medical clinic. This setup works well for those based in Santiago or nearby areas who want to ski without the commitment of an overnight stay.

If you already purchased a 2027 season pass for Valle Nevado, you can use it during this extended 2026 season. This is a significant perk for regulars who find themselves in the region during the overlap period. The resort is owned by Mountain Capital Partners, a Colorado based group, and is accessible with the Power Pass, making it a familiar destination for many American skiers.

The Portillo Effect

Valle Nevado is not the only resort benefiting from this unusual winter. Ski Portillo, another major destination near Santiago, also extended its season, moving its closing day to October 11. The resort experienced a massive storm cycle in July that dumped more than 16 feet of snow in a single event. This transformed the slopes and opened terrain that is rarely available, though it also caused some access road closures.

The team at Portillo described the snowfall as pretty abnormal for everybody. Such conditions are rare in the Southern Hemisphere and often lead to extended seasons. For travelers, this means a wider range of options in the region during the late fall. The overall trend suggests that the 2025 2026 season has been a record breaker for snow depth and duration across the Andes.

North American Comparison

While the Southern Hemisphere is winding down, the North American season is just beginning. The overlap creates a fascinating comparison for skiers. In the US, early November marks the start of the season, but conditions are often inconsistent. In Chile, the snow base is deep and reliable due to the preceding months of accumulation. This makes the late season in Chile a premium product for those seeking guaranteed conditions.

The timing also offers a strategic advantage. Skiers can enjoy the fresh snow in Chile before the crowds swell in North America. The Power Pass makes it easy to switch between the two hemispheres if you are an avid traveler. This kind of seasonal shift is rare and highlights the changing climate patterns that are affecting ski operations globally.

Planning Your Trip

If you are considering a trip to Chile during this extended period, book your flights and ground transportation early. While the mountain hotels are closed, there are plenty of options in Santiago for lodging. The city is a vibrant destination in its own right, with excellent food and wine to complement your skiing days. The overlap with the US season means that flight prices may be competitive as demand shifts.

This is a once in a blue moon opportunity to ski in late November in the Southern Hemisphere. The conditions are ideal, the infrastructure is ready, and the snow is deep. For those who love the sport, this is a chance to experience a season that defies the usual calendar. Make the most of it before the lifts go quiet for the year.