South America Backcountry Skiing Guide: Top Zones in Chile & Argentina

Where Winter Never Ends

When summer ends in the north, winter begins in the south. From the glaciated peaks of Patagonia to the volcanic slopes of Chile, South America offers some of the best backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering on the planet. Whether you're chasing corn snow, powder stashes, or steep alpine lines, this guide breaks down the top ski touring zones across Chile and Argentina.

In this guide:

• Top zones in Chile and Argentina for backcountry skiing

• Classic lines and terrain beta for each region
  

• Seasonality, snowpack notes, and logistics

🇨🇱 Central Andes, Chile — Big Peaks, Big Lines, Easy Access

Overview

Centered around Santiago, the Central Andes deliver high-elevation terrain, deep winter snowpacks (July–August), and a mix of resort-accessed and human-powered backcountry skiing. The region is incredibly accessible—with international flights landing just 90 minutes from major ski zones.

Iconic Zones & Objectives

1. Portillo & Super C Couloir

• Super C is one of the most legendary ski descents in the Andes: a 1,500-meter couloir (approx. 5,000 vertical feet) that slices through steep granite above the historic Portillo resort.

• Conditions need to be right, but when they are, this is a true big-mountain descent.
  
  

2. La Parva / Tres Valles Region (La Parva, Valle Nevado, El Colorado)

• La Chimenea Couloir: A technical line off La Parva’s back bowls with steep, narrow entry and long fall-line skiing.

• Santa Teresa Zone: Massive alpine bowls and challenging faces just beyond the resort boundaries—accessed via lifts, with the option to shuttle back to El Colorado for 3–4 laps per day if timed right.

• Laguna Piuquenes: A classic alpine tour that starts from Valle Nevado and explores mellow to moderate terrain ideal for storm days.
  
  

3. Ski Arpa & Valle La Honda

• Private cat skiing operations at Arpa give access to untouched terrain, massive views of Aconcagua, and jump-off points into bigger alpine objectives.

• Valle La Honda offers long tours and ski mountaineering potential in less trafficked terrain.
  
  

Snowpack & Conditions:

Midwinter brings consistent powder with a coastal influence—deeper than you'd expect at this latitude. Avalanches are a real risk, especially in storm cycles.

Looking to ski iconic lines like the Super C or La Chimenea? Blackbird’s Central Andes Backcountry Skiing Trip offers a stress-free way to efficiently explore this terrain, blending lift-accessed touring and high-alpine objectives with experienced guides and local support.

Pro Tip:

Super C can often hold smooth and soft snow, but timing is everything. Wind and avy conditions often shut this highly committing line down. Talk to locals or hire a guide if you’re planning to ski it.

🇦🇷 Bariloche & Refugio Touring — Argentina’s Backcountry Paradise

Overview

The region around San Carlos de Bariloche in Northern Patagonia is home to some of the most accessible and exciting backcountry skiing in South America. From steep granite couloirs above alpine huts to mellow tree laps near town, this area blends European-style hut touring with wild Patagonian views.

Key Zones & Classic Objectives

1. Refugio Frey

• Iconic alpine hut perched in a dramatic granite cirque above Laguna Toncek

• Surrounded by steep couloirs, spires, and chutes with varied aspects and reliable snow

• Classic lines include:

• La Silla – A narrow, aesthetic couloir framed by granite towers

• El Tobogán – A smooth, natural halfpipe-style chute perfect for fast, fun skiing

• La Vieja – Long, clean fall-line skiing with sustained pitch

• Aguja M2 – A twisting, technical couloir that often holds cold, protected snow

• Additional options exist off the ridgelines and towers surrounding Aguja Frey and Aguja del Torre Principal, offering storm-friendly and sun-softened options

• Easily accessed via a skin track from the Cerro Catedral base area or with lift-assist to shorten the approach

• A true classic for hut-based backcountry skiing, with terrain suited for steep couloir hunters, storm day laps, and multi-day basecamps
  
  

2. Refugio Jakob

• Farther out and more remote than Frey

• Offers longer ski mountaineering lines and fewer crowds

• Great for multi-day traverses linking with Frey or Laguna Negra
  
  

3. Cerro Catedral Backcountry

• Argentina’s largest ski resort, but just beyond the ropes lies expansive terrain

• La Laguna and Van Titter are standout zones for alpine laps and storm day trees
  
  

4. Cerro Bayo (Villa La Angostura)

• Underrated gem with lift-accessed backcountry and lake views

• North-facing terrain skis well in spring

• Less crowded than Catedral with great tree skiing
  
  

Snowpack & Conditions:

Best conditions hit September–October with more stable weather and good coverage. Maritime snowpack with wind-affected alpine terrain and sheltered powder in trees.

Blackbird’s Bariloche Backcountry trip is built to make the most of this region—mixing hut-based skiing at Frey with lift-accessed touring and off-the-beaten-path terrain.
Explore our Patagonia Backcountry Skiing Trip

Pro Tip:

If you're stormed in at Frey, laps off Aguja Frey and La Vieja hold soft snow and are easy to repeat. Look for southeast aspects if the sun pops after a storm.

The Chilean Volcanoes offer endless peaks and routes to satisfy even the most demanding ski mountaineers.

🇨🇱 Southern Chile Volcanoes — Corn Snow & Perfect Fall-Line Descents

Overview

The volcanoes of the Araucanía and Los Lagos regions offer near-perfect ski touring terrain—symmetrical peaks, massive vertical, and predictable spring conditions. Add in hot springs, delicious food, and local culture, and this region is a backcountry skier’s dream.

Key Volcanoes & Classic Lines

1. Volcán Villarrica

• Active volcano with fumaroles and stunning crater views.

• 1,500+ meters of continuous ski descent.

• Skin from the base or use the lower lifts when operating.
  
  

2. Volcán Lanín

• One of the tallest volcanoes in the region (3,747m).

• Demanding ascent, often with a high camp.

• Technical skiing from the summit with panoramic Andes views.
  
  

3. Volcán Lonquimay

• Consistent corn cycles and wide-open slopes.

• Shorter approaches, ideal for big vert in a day.
  
  

4. Volcán Llaima

• Massive volume and endless descent options.

• Remote feel despite decent access—great for linking tours.
  
  

Snowpack & Conditions:

Corn cycles typically begin in late August and peak in September–October. Storms do hit mid-winter (July through mid-August), but access and skiing are much more reliable in spring.

This is a great region for first-time South America ski travelers. If you’re looking to ski a different volcano every day without the stress of route planning and logistics, our Chile Volcanoes Backcountry Skiing Trip offers a seamless experience built around conditions, culture, and efficient terrain access.

Pro Tip:

Lanín often requires a high camp and an alpine start. Bring ski crampons, glacier gear, and check if the Carabineros are requiring permits or guides during your visit.

The unmistakeable outline of Cerro Fitz Roy. Raw, rugged granite spires that draw climbers from all over the world.

🇦🇷 Argentine Patagonia — Wild Terrain & Alpine Ski Mountaineering

Overview

El Chaltén is the hub for ski mountaineering in Argentine Patagonia, sitting in the shadow of Cerro Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. Unlike Chile’s smoother volcanoes, this region is all rugged granite, wind-blasted glaciers, and technical lines. The terrain here demands patience, fitness, and alpine savvy—but the rewards are massive.

Key Zones & Objectives

1. Cerro Vespignani

• The most frequently skied peak in the region

• Stunning approach with panoramic glacier views

• Summit lines range from moderate couloirs to steeper faces
  
  

2. Cerro Madsen

• A more accessible objective with classic couloir skiing

• Offers great views of the Fitz Roy range from the top
  
  

3. Cerro Mojon Rojo

• Less skied than others, but features technical routes and dramatic spires

• Requires careful navigation of glacial terrain
  
  

4. The Icefield Traverse (for experienced parties)

• Multi-day ski expedition with world-class views and serious commitment

• Typically only tackled with expedition-level planning
  

Snowpack & Conditions:

Patagonia’s snowpack is maritime and wind-affected. Stability can be good, but wind slabs and variability are common. The best weather windows occur in late September and October.

If you’re dreaming of skiing beneath Fitz Roy or venturing into the Icefield, a guide familiar with the terrain and weather patterns can be the difference between success and a shut-down.

Pro Tip:

Don’t underestimate Patagonia’s wind. Use extended weather windows in late September to hit technical objectives like Mojon Rojo. Backup plans are essential.

The Hot Springs at Nevado de Chillán are the perfect way to wind down after a long day's skiing.

🇨🇱 Nevados de Chillán — Volcanic Terrain with Geothermal Flavor

Overview

Located in Chile’s Ñuble Region between Santiago and the southern volcano belt, Nevados de Chillán is a standout destination for ski touring thanks to its volcanic terrain, geothermal activity, and abundant snowfall. With frequent winter storms and consistent coverage well into spring, it’s considered one of the snowiest ski areas in South America.

The combination of lift access, touring terrain, and hot springs makes Chillán a favorite among locals and increasingly popular with international ski travelers looking for something off the beaten path.

Key Zones & Classic Objectives

1. Nevado de Chillán 

• Most prominent peak in the region

• Offers symmetrical fall-line descents, great for spring

• Skin from the ski area or access from Valle Shangri-La
  
  

2. Volcán Chillán Viejo

• Older, more rugged volcanic cone

• Shorter vertical but more technical terrain

• Skin or boot from the upper lifts when open
  
  

3. Cerro Pirigallo

• A local favorite for resort-accessed backcountry

• Features steep, playful descents that drop back to chairlifts, making multiple laps possible

• Ski straight to the Valle Hermoso hot springs for the perfect recovery sessions
  
  

Snowpack & Conditions:

Nevados de Chillán receives more snowfall than almost any other area in South America, with annual totals often exceeding 8–10 meters (26–33 feet). Storms are frequent mid-winter (July–August), followed by excellent corn cycles through September and October. Snowpack tends to be deep, maritime, and supportive—great for both storm skiing and spring touring.

Nevados de Chillán blends deep powder, reliable spring snow, and uncrowded terrain—all with the bonus of natural hot springs. If you’re looking to escape the better-known zones and score big turns, this region should be on your radar.

Pro Tip:

If lifts are closed or conditions are touchy up high, the Shangri-La Valley offers sheltered trees and long laps. And yes, the hot springs really are worth the detour.

🇦🇷 Las Leñas, Argentina — Steep, Remote, and Rowdy

Overview

Las Leñas is Argentina’s most famous big-mountain resort—and for good reason. Known for its steep inbounds terrain, fast access to massive backcountry zones, and a long-standing freeride culture, this is South America’s version of Jackson Hole meets La Grave.

Located in Mendoza Province, Las Leñas is more remote than Bariloche or Santiago zones, but the reward is wide-open terrain, few crowds, and some of the biggest lift-accessed lines on the continent.

Map of Las Leñas Ski Area

Key Zones & Classic Objectives

1. Eduardo’s Face

• The most iconic line in the resort

• Steep, sustained, and often technical

• When open (conditions and avy permitting), it’s a must-ski
  
  

2. Cerro Torrecillas Backcountry

• Just outside resort boundaries

• Access to high-alpine bowls and couloirs

• Skin from the Marte chair for bigger objectives
  
  

3. Valle Hermoso

• Remote valley with huts and longer ski tours

• Incredible spring skiing and exploration potential

• Best with multi-day gear or snowmobile support
  
  

Snowpack & Conditions:

Mid-winter storms can bring deep powder, but wind and avalanche risk are serious concerns. Spring offers better stability but can come with access challenges if the resort infrastructure isn’t operating fully.

Las Leñas rewards strong skiers with big lines and wild terrain. If you're heading here, make sure you have solid avalanche skills and strong backcountry decision-making—this zone demands both.

Pro Tip:

Las Leñas is notorious for lift closures due to wind and avalanche hazard—especially the Marte chair, which accesses most of the big lines. Build flexibility into your trip and be ready to tour if the lifts go down.

🇨🇱 Maipo Valley (Cajón del Maipo) — Big Backcountry Objectives Just Outside Santiago

Overview

Just an hour and a half from Santiago, the Maipo Valley is one of Chile’s most underrated backcountry regions. Home to towering glaciated peaks, remote volcanic valleys, and hot springs, this area offers big-mountain objectives with fewer crowds than Tres Valles or Portillo.

The valley sits within the Cajón del Maipo area, a scenic river corridor surrounded by jagged peaks and accessible by car year-round.

Key Zones & Classic Objectives

1. Cerro El Morado

• One of the most recognizable peaks in the Maipo Valley

• Features a long glacier ascent and big ski lines off the summit ridges

• Mountaineering experience required
  
  

2. San José Volcano

• A prominent stratovolcano on the Chile–Argentina border

• Offers a huge vertical drop and views of glaciated terrain

• Often done as a multi-day trip with a high camp
  
  

3. Baños Morales Area

• Base for many day tours and multi-day objectives

• Access to moderate terrain, great for acclimatization or warming up
  
  

Snowpack & Conditions:

Snowpack here is coastal-influenced and deep mid-winter (July–August), with increasing stability into early September. The high elevations and glaciated terrain make for complex route-finding and avalanche conditions.

The Maipo Valley is a fantastic option for experienced ski tourers looking for big vertical close to Santiago—particularly if you’ve already hit the main Central Andes zones and want something more remote.

Pro Tip:

San José Volcano is a massive objective—plan for an early start or overnight at a high camp like Plantat Refuge. Local 4x4 transport or sleds can cut hours off the approach if arranged in advance.

🗺️ Other Notable South American Ski Zones

South America’s terrain is vast. While the Central Andes, Southern Volcanoes, and Patagonian peaks get most of the attention, these additional zones are well worth exploring—especially for experienced travelers and return visitors.

🇦🇷 Mendoza Andes (around Aconcagua)

• Some touring options around the valleys of the Horcones and Vacas Rivers

• Not a primary ski zone, but for expert ski mountaineers, lines exist on flanks of Aconcagua and surrounding peaks

• High altitude, serious approaches
  
  

The tallest mountain in the Western Hemisphere, Aconcagua rises 22,837 feet to the roof of the Andes.

🇨🇱 Lonquimay to Llaima Traverse (Araucanía Region)

• A multi-day traverse linking volcanoes across native forests and alpine terrain

• Can include Lonquimay, Tolhuaca, and Llaima

• Great for experienced ski tourers looking for a progression from day trips
  
  

🇧🇴 Cordillera Real, Bolivia

• High-altitude ski mountaineering above 17,000 ft near La Paz

• Peaks like Huayna Potosí and Pequeño Alpamayo offer serious glaciated objectives

• Remote, expedition-style skiing for experienced and acclimatized mountaineers
  
  

🇦🇷 Ushuaia / Tierra del Fuego

• The southernmost backcountry ski destination in South America

• Martial Glacier and surrounding peaks offer maritime snow and alpine views

• Best in late spring, with reliable snow and dramatic scenery near the Beagle Channel
  
  

📅 South America Ski Season At a Glance

🧠 FAQ: Planning a South America Ski Trip

What’s the best region for first-timers?

• The Chile Volcanoes or Bariloche areas are ideal—reliable conditions, shorter approaches, and less extreme terrain than Patagonia.

Can I link multiple regions in one trip?

• Yes—with good planning. For example, ski the Central Andes in August, then head south for volcanoes and Bariloche in September.

How do I handle logistics?

• Renting a car is common, though some regions (like Patagonia or Central Andes) may benefit from a guide or local operator to handle transport, permits, and navigation.

Should I hire a guide for skiing in South America?

• In many regions—especially the Central Andes, Patagonia, and Chaltén—having a certified guide can make a big difference when it comes to logistics, safety, and terrain access. Some areas (like Refugio Frey or Chile Volcanoes) are doable self-guided, but conditions can vary quickly and timing can be tricky.

🔑 Final Takeaways

• Central Andes: High-elevation terrain with iconic lines like the Super C and La Chimenea

• Volcano Region: Classic corn skiing, steep symmetrical peaks, and easy touring

• Patagonia: Wild, glaciated, technical mountaineering terrain

• Bariloche: Frey, Jakob, and Catedral offer the best blend of terrain, access, and culture

• Other Gems: Maipo Valley, Nevados de Chillán, Cordillera Real, and Ushuaia for experienced and adventurous travelers

• Best Timing: Ski season runs July–October, with snowpack and style varying by region
  
  

Want help navigating the terrain, snowpack, and logistics?

Blackbird offers small-group guided trips in key South American regions to help you get the most out of your adventure—with minimal hassle and maximum turns.

🧗 About the Author

Zeb Blais is an IFMGA-certified mountain guide and founder of Blackbird Mountain Guides. With over 20 years of experience skiing and climbing across the Americas, Europe, and the Himalaya, Zeb brings a deep knowledge of backcountry travel, avalanche safety, and high-alpine objectives to every trip he leads.

Zeb has spent multiple seasons guiding in Chile and Argentina, including expeditions in the Central Andes, Patagonia, and the Southern Volcanoes. When he’s not chasing storms or technical summits, you’ll find him building programs that help skiers and climbers push their skills while staying safe in the mountains.