A ski resort in Chile is extending its season into December for the first time in its history following an extraordinary winter that delivered more than 24 feet of snowfall to the Andes Mountains.
Valle Nevado announced Friday, October 30, that it will continue offering skiing and snowboarding on select dates through December 1, bringing its 2026 season to a record 154 operating days.
The announcement marks the resort’s second extension this fall. Valle Nevado had already extended its season through November 8 following a massive October storm that dropped more than 43 inches of snow in just 48 hours.
The resort originally planned to close October 18, making the latest extension particularly remarkable for a Southern Hemisphere ski destination that typically wraps up operations in October.
More Than 24 Feet of Snow Keeps Valle Nevado Open
Located in the Andes Mountains outside Santiago, Valle Nevado sits at a base elevation of 9,925 feet. That elevation, combined with abundant snowfall and favorable late-season temperatures, has allowed the resort to maintain skiable terrain well into the Southern Hemisphere spring.
“When we announced that we would extend the season through November 8, we were already making history. Today, we are taking another step forward and demonstrating the full potential of our mountain.” -Dominique Rudloff, Valle Nevado GM
Rudloff credited the resort’s mountain operations teams for helping preserve conditions throughout the unusually long season. The resort has received more than 24 feet of snow this winter, providing the foundation for its extended operations.
“We have a clear purpose: Give people the freedom to ski. This means making it possible for more and more people to come up to the mountain and enjoy the snow.” -Dominique Rudloff, Valle Nevado GM
Valle Nevado’s Extended Skiing Schedule
Following regular operations through November 8, Valle Nevado will reopen for skiing and snowboarding on the following dates:
- November 13-15
- November 20-22
- November 27-December 1
Lifts will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on those dates, allowing guests to take advantage of cooler morning temperatures and generally better snow conditions.
Available trails and lifts will depend on weather and mountain conditions. Visitors should consult the resort’s official mountain report before traveling.
A Record-Breaking Winter in the Chilean Andes
Beyond the unusually long season, Valle Nevado reported several other milestones in 2026.
More than 45,000 skiers have traveled between Valle Nevado and neighboring La Parva using a shared lift ticket or season pass since the resorts established their connection in 2025. The resort also reported that more than 25,000 children took advantage of its free skiing program for kids ages 12 and under this season.
The winter also marked the debut of Aconcagua Ski Residences, the resort’s new premium lodging development, which welcomed its first guests earlier this year.
With an opening date of June 19 and its final scheduled operating day now set for December 1, Valle Nevado is preparing to conclude the longest ski season in its 38-year history.
For additional information about the extended season, tickets and operating conditions, visit the Valle Nevado website.
