PORTILLO, Chile – One of South America’s most famous ski resorts remains isolated after an extraordinary winter storm buried the area under more than 15 feet of snow.
Ski Portillo announced on Monday, July 20th, that more than 4.5 meters, or 15 feet, of snow had fallen during the prolonged storm. Resort officials also said additional snowfall is expected in the coming days, extending what has already become one of the most significant weather events of the season in the Chilean Andes.
As of Tuesday, July 21st, all access to the resort remains closed because of ongoing safety concerns. Both ground transportation and air access remain suspended while crews monitor weather conditions and avalanche hazards. The closure affects one of the world’s most iconic ski destinations, located high in the Andes Mountains near the Chile and Argentina border.
Rare Storm Continues To Create Dangerous Conditions
The storm has been unusual not only because of the amount of snow but also because of its duration and intensity. Cnstantly changing weather forecasts have made it difficult to determine when conditions will improve enough to safely reopen access.
The combination of relentless snowfall, strong winds, and elevated avalanche danger has prevented authorities from establishing a reliable timeline for reopening the mountain road leading to the resort. Air access has also been impacted as poor visibility and severe mountain weather continue to limit operations.
Portillo says it is closely monitoring conditions and will continue providing updates through its official communication channels as new information becomes available.
One Of South America’s Most Legendary Ski Resorts
Portillo has long been considered one of the premier ski destinations in the Southern Hemisphere. The historic resort sits at an elevation of more than 9,300 feet beside the striking Laguna del Inca and has welcomed skiers from around the world for decades.
Known for its steep terrain, reliable snowfall, and unique high alpine setting, the resort attracts recreational skiers along with elite athletes and national ski teams that travel to Chile each Southern Hemisphere winter for training.
The resort features more than 1,200 acres of skiable terrain served by a mix of traditional chairlifts and its signature Va et Vient lifts, which are designed to move skiers efficiently on some of Portillo’s steepest slopes. Its remote location has always been part of its appeal, though it can also leave the resort vulnerable when major storms impact mountain transportation corridors.
Massive Snowpack Could Lead To Outstanding Conditions
While the ongoing closure has disrupted travel plans for guests, the remarkable snowfall could eventually produce exceptional skiing once roads reopen and avalanche mitigation work is complete.
With additional snowfall still in the forecast, there is no confirmed date for reopening access to Ski Portillo. Travelers planning upcoming trips are encouraged to monitor official resort updates before heading toward the Andes.
If the storm finally eases, Portillo could emerge with one of the deepest snowpacks in the Southern Hemisphere this winter, setting the stage for memorable conditions later in the season.