Where to Ski in February

Where to Go Skiing in February

Skiing in February means you’ll miss the bitting January frost and enjoy slightly warmer temperatures without compromising on the quality and amount of snow. 

It may be too early for sun-soaked Alpine slopes, but February skiers will enjoy longer days, après-ski in the sunshine, and access to resorts with lower altitudes.

With February skiing, you can expect bustling resorts and some of the best snow all year round. 

See our top picks for the best places to ski in February, from Europe to the United States.

February Skiing in Europe

February is the month when both novice and skilful skiers can find the best winter snow in Europe. 

Keep in mind, that French and UK school holidays occur around mid-February and half-term will bring in the biggest crowds all year. Skiers looking to avoid half-term crowds may be better off opting for luxury ski resorts away from the French Alps or opting for off-peak weeks. 

You don’t need to travel across the ocean to the United States or Canada for a stunning February skiing holiday.

There are a number of attractive and slick ski resorts in Austria and Italy that are perfect alternatives for those looking for lavish experiences in the best snow around. For superb skiing tracks and winter paradise fun - these are the best places to ski in Europe in February.

Skiing in Italy in February

In the Italian Alps, you can expect deepening snow packs and expansive ski terrains. You will need to keep an eye out for large crowds, but some luxury resorts are a little quieter than the rest.

Valle d’Aosta resorts are especially quieter during the week. Unless it’s a powder day, we would recommend sightseeing on the weekend and mid-week February skiing in Italy, avoiding the biggest crowds and enjoying the incredible snow conditions.

La Thuile, Italy - 1,450 m

Tucked at the end of the Aosta Valley, La Thuile ski resort is well known for its charming village, stunning views, and incredible Italian cuisine.

You can expect locally crafted and produced charcuterie, complete with famous Italian cheese and wine. Many of the best restaurants in La Thuile are located right on the Mountain, and on-piste pick-me-ups are readily available, from rich and thick hot chocolate to ‘Bomberdino’, a mix of eggnog and brandy.

Oxford Ski Company recommends: Staying at the Montana Lodge and Spa - a stylish “Design Hotel” with a luxury lounge bar to enjoy a fine wine in front of the open fire after a long day on the slopes.

Average snowfall in February in La Thuile

Average weekly snowfall: 30 cm
Average monthly snowfall: 92 cm

Sitting on the Italian-French border, La Thuile will be much quieter than its neighbouring French resorts.

This resort sits at an altitude of 1440m, meaning that it is generally colder and with better snow later in the season.

You may expect some rain in February, but on the Italian side, you may find an abundance of tree skiing available, with the thick treeline protecting against the wind and bad weather.

Plan de Corones/Kronplatz, Italy - 2,275 m

The Dolomites ski area is one of the largest in the world. It offers even the most demanding skiers not only the possibility of improving their skills or showing off their abilities but also awe-inspiring views, breathtaking scenery, and superb dining and accommodation facilities.

Oxford Ski Company recommends: The Kronplatz Ski School and taking a private guide through the Dolomites Mountains.

Average snowfall in February in Plan de Corones/Kronplatz

Average weekly snowfall: 14 cm
Average monthly snowfall: 33 cm

During the mid-winter, you can expect fantastic conditions for skiing and snowboarding with mostly clear and dry conditions.

Families can make the most of their time off from school with the luxurious resort facilities and the slopes should be largely quiet.

Those of all skiing levels can enjoy the combination of good snowfall and pristine slope maintenance. There are nine ski schools available as well as two helpful learners areas perfect for picking up tricky techniques.

Alta Badia, Italy - 1,540 m

Located in the heart of South Tyrol in Northern Italy, the ski region of Alta Badia is widely known for its diverse natural terrain and its awe-inspiring history. 

For history lovers, this region has also played an interesting part in World War One with many battles taking place in the surrounding mountain areas between the Italians and the Austrians.

Oxford Ski Company recommends:  Cross Country Skiing & Toboggan piste

Explore our entire range of luxury ski resorts in Alta Badia for more inspiration.

Skiing in Austria in February

In Austria, skiing in February guarantees the best snow possible. There should already be plenty of snow on the ground when you arrive, and more will be falling down throughout your stay.

Austrian resorts are typically cold in February, especially those at around 1,000m, but you can expect some clear and bright February days with surprisingly warm sunshine.

Our top picks for the best places to ski in February in Austria are Obergurgl and Lech with top-notch skiing facilities, great dining, and an outstanding array of accommodation options.

Obergurgl, Austria - 2,019 m

Obergurgl is a charming and peaceful resort in the Ötztal Alps, perfect for a family half-term holiday or couples looking forward to a romantic getaway with a stunning skiing experience.

Obergurgl allows skiers to enjoy a glance at the impressive alpine landscape that surrounds this premier Austrian skiing destination.

Oxford Ski Company recommends: The Obergurgl Ski School and private childcare through the Tourist Office.

Average snowfall in February in Obergurgl

Average weekly snowfall: 31 cm
Average monthly snowfall: 74 cm

Skiing in February in Obergurgl usually involves skiing in the sun. You can explore the snowy mountains all day, coming back in the evening to relax with a massage at the Hochfirst Hotel Spa.

Children eight years old and younger can ski with their parents on the wide gentle slopes free of charge, and there are designated children's areas held away from the crowds.

Lech, Austria - 1,444 m

Situated in the Bludenz district, Lech has become an exclusive ski resort. Even though it is not a high-altitude ski resort, it does offer reliable snow throughout the winter season.

With a chocolate box-style village and snow-covered rooftops, Lech is famous for its upscale and glitzy accommodations, and it is a great luxury ski holiday destination in February in Austria.

Snowpacks will deepen in February, and you can expect a snow depth of about 232cm at the highest points of the ski area and 119cm and the lowest.

Oxford Ski Company recommends: Legendary apres skiing at the Ice Bar Hotel Krone.

Average snowfall in February in Lech

Average weekly snowfall: 39 cm
Average monthly snowfall: 95cm

Explore our entire range of luxury ski resorts in Austria for more inspiration.

 Skiing in North America in February

In North America, especially in the North West, ski resorts will peak in February more than any other month.

If you’re looking to travel far away from half-term holidayers and French and UK students on break, ski resorts in North America become winter wonderlands during the colder months and one of the best places to ski in February.

By February, mountains will have filled in with powder-like snow, even during the years with less snowfall than usual. You can expect longer days by this point, with the North American sun peaking over the eastern horizon earlier in the morning, especially as the month continues.

Snowmass, Colorado - 2,502 m

In Colorado, the snow density is as light as it gets. Especially in Snowmass, located at a high altitude with north-facing slopes, the powder tends to last and is excellently preserved.

Later in the ski season, the flatter lower areas will begin the freeze-melt cycle, and skiers will need to stick to the upper terrain. February skiers will have no such problems and can depend on a snow-sure month.

Oxford Ski Company recommends: The cool new beer hall at Wildwood.

Average snowfall in February in Snowmass

Average weekly snowfall: 30 cm
Average monthly snowfall: 152.4 cm

Keep in mind that the Snowmass ski resort will still be fairly busy in February. To avoid the biggest crowds, we would recommend going during the period before President’s Day Weekend (a three-day weekend for American workers at the end of the month).

Late February, after President’s Day, can also be a good time to avoid the crowds and before the warming spring comes into full effect.

Whistler, BC, Canada - 670 m

Skiers will love the cold but crips climate in Whistler during February and they can expect a good amount of sunshine during their stay - perfect for a half-term break in a world-class ski resort.

February skiers will enjoy the fresh snowfall with enough sunshine to keep the environment pleasant.

Oxford Ski Company recommends: Skiing in the mid-week skiing as it will always be less crowded than at weekends.

Average snowfall in February in Whistler

Average weekly snowfall: 43 cm
Average monthly snowfall: 116.84 cm

Whistler Blackcomb is one of the top resorts to visit in Canada in February. Aside from an all-open terrain and the abundance of snow, you can also tap into your adventurous side with activities such as dog sledding, ziplining, heli-skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.

Enjoy the picturesque setting of the British Colombia Coast Mountains and a climate that is not as cold and windy as more inland resorts.

Explore our handpicked selection of luxury ski chalets and hotels across Europe, North America, and beyond here.

FAQs for ski holidays in February

Where offers the best snow conditions in February?

Europe and North America are popular places to go skiing in February. France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Canada are places in which you can find both sunshine and perfect powdery snow conditions in February. 

Is February a busy time to go skiing?

The French Alps are extremely busy during February as this is when the French and UK school holidays take place. Big holidays such as Presidents Day can also bring large crowds to ski resorts in America. The longer days, sunshine, and perfect ski slopes make February a busy time to go skiing. 

When is the best time to book a ski holiday in February?

It is always advisable to book your ski holiday as early as possible, particularly during the peak times in February. We suggest making reservations at least 8 to 12 months in advance to ensure you have access to the best accommodation.