This story originally appeared in TRANSWORLD SNOWBOARDING. Words by Julia Spadaro.
Sitting on the couch hiding from the heat is getting pretty dull. It is about time to start dreaming about the upcoming season. What is a better way to get stoked than planning a trip to an amazing destination? On top of the simple beauty these places provide, they offer some topnotch snowboarding, as well.
1. Queenstown, New Zealand
Locals call it “the adventure capital of the world”. The snowboarding turns into a buzzing après which turns into a vibrant nightlife. If you can’t wait for the winter, pack your stuff and hit up Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona or other amazing resorts in the area.
2. Iceland
If you’re looking for ever changing weather and tree-less snowboarding, visit the island of fire and ice. Some of the most popular snowboarding areas are the Blafjoll Mountains, Hlidarfjall Ski Resort and Westfjords.
3. Whistler, British Columbia
Whistler is a powder haven with a long season and the ultimate in big mountain experiences. Now available on the Epic Pass, Whistler Blackcomb Resort will not disappoint.
4. Chile
The stunning beauty of Chile is just a portion of what this country has to offer. Unobstructed steep terrain, light powder and playful lines, it’s truly a freeride snowboarder’s paradise. Don’t miss out on Portillo, Nevados de Chillan, Tres Valles or many of the other incredible spots.
5. Montana
In Montana, you get a resort experience without the lift lines. If you want to keep it closer to home or spend less money on a plane ticket, Big Sky Resort, Whitefish Mountain Resort and a handful of others are the places to go.
6. Oregon
Mount Hood is even better in the winter than in the summer. Oregon snowboarding offers everything from blower powder days to slushy spring conditions. Hit up Timberline Lodge or Mt. Bachelor for a true Oregon adventure.
7. Alaska
AK is a destination for all snowboard enthusiasts. From tall peaks and spines to a collection of heli operations, Anchorage, Haines and Valdez will guarantee a trip for the books this winter.
8. Japan
The powder capital of the world, boys and girls. Japan has epic snowboarding, resorts that stay open all night and vending machines that sell beer. Niseko … Hokkaido … you can’t really go wrong.
9. Utah
Utah offers long groomers and technical terrain parks. With an average of 300-500 inches of snow per year, the conditions are usually all-time. Nearby resorts include Brighton, Snowbird, Park City and more.
10. France
France will test your boundaries and push your riding further with its natural freestyle terrain. It’s rough around the edges, but you can expect an authentic experience at Serre Chevalier, Chamonix, Avoriaz and various other resorts.
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