Thanks to its high elevation and predominantly south-facing terrain, Valle Nevado typically enjoys better snow preservation and accumulation than its neighbors, La Parva and El Colorado. Powder quality is often excellent, and because the resort draws a more family-oriented clientele, off-piste terrain can remain untouched far longer than at comparable resorts in North America or Europe. It’s not uncommon to find fresh tracks lingering just off the main trails for days—or even weeks—after a storm. That said, Valle Nevado’s snowfall patterns are often feast or famine. The resort frequently builds its entire seasonal base from just a handful of large storms, with long dry spells in between. These droughts bring ample sunshine and mild temperatures, but they can stretch on for weeks or even months. During these periods, the resort becomes heavily reliant on snowmaking—when and where it can be deployed—to keep groomed runs open. On a good day, the off-piste terrain delivers deep, soft po...