17 Feet of Snow With No End In Sight: Chilean Ski Resort Extends Season Into October

The good times will keep rolling into October in South America this winter.

Just days after Ski Portillo announced its season would be extended to October 12, Valle Nevado, another popular Chilean ski resort, announced its season will now run through October 18, 2026.

“We are experiencing a remarkable season, and the snow and slope conditions are exceptional,” said Dominique Rudloff, General Manager of Valle Nevado in a press release. “Extending through October 18 gives skiers and snowboarders even more time to enjoy what has been an incredible winter in the Andes. With great snow, longer spring days, and 121 days of skiing, this is a season we won’t soon forget.”

Chile’s ski season typically lasts from late June through late September, but above-average snowfall and cold temperatures have been a boon this winter. Valle Nevado has recorded more than 17 feet of snow (204 in/518cm) this season, and another storm is expected to dump upwards of four additional feet of snow through Saturday, August 29, 2026.

Ikon Pass holders can claim up to seven days of skiing at Valle Nevado, and the resort confirmed passes will be honored over the extended ski season days.

The season has also been extended at Valle Nevado’s various hotels. Here’s a quick rundown on when they’re now expected to close.

• Hotel Tres Puntas: Open through September 20
• Hotel Valle Nevado: Open through September 25
• Hotel Puerta del Sol: Open through October 4
• Aconcagua Ski Residences: Open through October 4

If you’re planning on visiting Valle Nevado after the hotels close, fear not. The resort is less than a two-hour drive from Santiago, making it easily day-trippable.

If you’ve been considering a ski trip to South America, now is the time to go.

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