The 15 Best Ski Resorts You Can Reach by Train: How to Get There and When to Book
Skiing in the Alps is a dream for many, but the thought of battling airport crowds and navigating unfamiliar roads can be daunting. But what if we told you that you could skip the stress of driving and flying altogether and reach some of the most stunning ski resorts in Europe by train? That’s right, a train journey to the mountains can be a relaxing and scenic part of your ski vacation.
The Eurostar Snow train is a game-changer for skiers looking for an easy and eco-friendly way to reach the French Alps. This high-speed train whisks you through the picturesque French countryside, stopping at key locations like Chambéry, Albertville, Moûtiers, Aime-la-Plagne, and Bourg-Saint-Maurice, putting you within easy reach of some of the most iconic ski resorts in the world.
But the Eurostar Snow isn’t the only way to get to a ski resort by train. Whether you’re dreaming of carving fresh powder in the French Alps, exploring the charming resorts of Austria, or hitting the slopes in the American West, there are plenty of great ski destinations that are easily accessible by train. Get ready to trade in your car keys for a train ticket and discover the magic of ski travel by rail.
- Skip the stress of driving and flying by reaching stunning ski resorts in Europe by train.
- The Eurostar Snow train offers an easy and eco-friendly way to reach the French Alps, stopping at key locations like Chambéry, Albertville, Moûtiers, Aime-la-Plagne, and Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
- Various ski destinations in the French Alps, Austria, and the American West are easily accessible by train.
- Les Arcs in France is a top ski resort accessible by train, offering over 200 kilometers of slopes for skiers of all levels.
- The village of Arc 1600 in Les Arcs is known for its traditional architecture and vibrant après-ski scene.
- Plan your ski trip to Les Arcs by taking the Eurostar Snow train that stops at Bourg-Saint-Maurice, the gateway to this picturesque resort.
Top Ski Resorts Accessible by Train
We’ve compiled a list of 15 of the best ski resorts in the world that you can reach by train, offering something for every skier, from beginners to seasoned experts. We’ve also included tips on how to get there, when to book, and how to make your ski trip as affordable as possible.
1. Les Arcs, France
Nestled in the heart of the Savoie region, Les Arcs is a haven for skiers of all levels. This interconnected resort boasts over 200 kilometers of slopes, offering an incredible range of runs, from gentle beginner slopes to thrilling black runs. The village of Arc 1600 is particularly charming, with its traditional architecture and vibrant après-ski scene.
Getting to Les Arcs by Train: The Eurostar Snow train makes a stop at Bourg-Saint-Maurice, the gateway to Les Arcs. From Bourg-Saint-Maurice, you can take a funicular directly to the heart of the resort, making Les Arcs one of the most accessible ski resorts in the Alps. The train journey from Paris to Bourg-Saint-Maurice takes around 5 hours.
Best time to book: Book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling outside of school holidays if you’re looking for better deals and less crowded slopes.
2. Winter Park, Colorado, USA
Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Winter Park is a true gem for skiers and snowboarders. This resort boasts over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, including challenging expert runs and a wide range of beginner-friendly slopes. Winter Park also boasts a charming village with plenty of restaurants, shops, and après-ski options.
Getting to Winter Park by Train: The Winter Park Express train operates from Union Station in Denver to the heart of Winter Park, making it one of the most convenient ski destinations in the US. The train ride offers breathtaking views of the Colorado Rockies and takes about 2 hours.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
3. Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, is a vibrant city with a rich history and stunning mountain scenery. The city is situated at the crossroads of several major ski resorts, making it a fantastic base for exploring the Austrian Alps. Innsbruck itself has a small ski area, but the real magic lies in the surrounding resorts, which are easily accessible by train.
Getting to Innsbruck by Train: Innsbruck is well connected by rail, with direct trains from major cities in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Once you’re in Innsbruck, you can take a scenic train ride to nearby ski resorts like St. Anton am Arlberg, Ischgl, and Sölden.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds.
4. Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont, USA
Stowe Mountain Resort is a legendary ski destination in Vermont, renowned for its challenging terrain and stunning views. The resort’s signature Front Four trails are considered to be some of the most challenging and rewarding runs in the East. Stowe also offers a charming village with a bustling après-ski scene.
Getting to Stowe Mountain Resort by Train: The Amtrak Vermonter train travels from New York City to Burlington, Vermont. From Burlington, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Stowe Mountain Resort, a journey of about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can take a train to Waterbury, Vermont, which is located just a short drive from the resort.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
5. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is a car-free village nestled at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn. This iconic resort is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, world-class skiing, and charming village atmosphere. Zermatt is a paradise for skiers of all levels, with over 360 kilometers of slopes to explore.
Getting to Zermatt by Train: Zermatt is easily accessible by train, with a direct line from Visp. The journey from Visp to Zermatt takes about 35 minutes and offers stunning views of the Matterhorn. To reach Visp, you can take a train from major Swiss cities like Geneva, Zurich, and Bern.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
6. Chamonix, France
Chamonix, located in the French Alps, is a world-renowned ski resort known for its challenging terrain, breathtaking views, and vibrant après-ski scene. With over 170 kilometers of slopes to explore, Chamonix is a magnet for experienced skiers and snowboarders. The resort is also home to the iconic Aiguille du Midi, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Getting to Chamonix by Train: Chamonix is easily accessible by train, with a direct line from Paris. The journey from Paris to Chamonix takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes. You can also reach Chamonix by train from other major French cities like Lyon and Geneva.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
7. Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada
Whistler Blackcomb is a world-class ski resort located in British Columbia, Canada. This massive resort boasts over 8,171 acres of skiable terrain, offering a wide range of runs for all abilities, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs. Whistler Blackcomb is also home to a vibrant village with a wide range of restaurants, shops, and après-ski options.
Getting to Whistler Blackcomb by Train: The Rocky Mountaineer train offers a scenic journey from Vancouver to Whistler, passing through breathtaking mountain scenery along the way. The train journey takes about 3 days and includes overnight stays in comfortable hotels. You can also reach Whistler Blackcomb by train from other major Canadian cities like Calgary and Edmonton.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
8. Val d’Isère, France
Val d’Isère is a luxurious ski resort in the French Alps, known for its challenging slopes, stunning scenery, and vibrant après-ski scene. The resort is a favorite among experienced skiers and snowboarders, with over 300 kilometers of slopes to explore. Val d’Isère is also home to several world-class restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Getting to Val d’Isère by Train: Val d’Isère is easily accessible by train, with a direct line from Paris. The journey from Paris to Val d’Isère takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes. You can also reach Val d’Isère by train from other major French cities like Lyon and Geneva.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
9. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado, USA
Aspen Snowmass is a world-renowned ski resort in Colorado, known for its luxurious accommodations, challenging terrain, and vibrant après-ski scene. The resort boasts over 5,400 acres of skiable terrain, offering a wide range of runs for all abilities, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs. Aspen Snowmass is also home to four charming villages, each with its unique character and amenities.
Getting to Aspen Snowmass by Train: The Amtrak train travels from Denver to Glenwood Springs, Colorado. From Glenwood Springs, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Aspen Snowmass, a journey of about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train to Grand Junction, Colorado, and then take a bus or rent a car to Aspen Snowmass.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
10. St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria
St. Anton am Arlberg is a world-renowned ski resort in Austria, known for its challenging terrain, stunning scenery, and vibrant après-ski scene. The resort is a favorite among experienced skiers and snowboarders, with over 300 kilometers of slopes to explore. St. Anton am Arlberg is also home to several world-class restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Getting to St. Anton am Arlberg by Train: St. Anton am Arlberg is easily accessible by train, with a direct line from Innsbruck. The journey from Innsbruck to St. Anton am Arlberg takes around 2 hours. You can also reach St. Anton am Arlberg by train from other major Austrian cities like Vienna and Salzburg.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
11. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming, USA
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is a world-renowned ski resort in Wyoming, known for its challenging terrain, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant après-ski scene. The resort is a favorite among experienced skiers and snowboarders, with over 2,500 acres of slopes to explore. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is also home to several world-class restaurants, shops, and hotels. The resort is a short drive from the charming town of Jackson, Wyoming.
Getting to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort by Train: The Amtrak train travels from Salt Lake City to Jackson, Wyoming. From Jackson, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, a journey of about 20 minutes.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
12. Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado, USA
Breckenridge Ski Resort is a popular ski destination in Colorado, known for its charming Victorian village, challenging terrain, and family-friendly atmosphere. The resort boasts over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, offering a wide range of runs for all abilities, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs. Breckenridge Ski Resort is also home to several world-class restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Getting to Breckenridge Ski Resort by Train: The Amtrak train travels from Denver to Frisco, Colorado. From Frisco, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Breckenridge Ski Resort, a journey of about 30 minutes.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
13. Telluride Ski Resort, Colorado, USA
Telluride Ski Resort is a luxurious ski destination in Colorado, known for its stunning scenery, challenging terrain, and charming historic town. The resort boasts over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, offering a wide range of runs for all abilities, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs. Telluride Ski Resort is also home to several world-class restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Getting to Telluride Ski Resort by Train: The Amtrak train travels from Denver to Grand Junction, Colorado. From Grand Junction, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Telluride Ski Resort, a journey of about 3 hours.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
14. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California/Nevada, USA
Heavenly Mountain Resort is a popular ski destination located on the border of California and Nevada. This resort boasts over 4,800 acres of skiable terrain, offering a wide range of runs for all abilities, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs. Heavenly Mountain Resort is also known for its stunning views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains.
Getting to Heavenly Mountain Resort by Train: The Amtrak train travels from San Francisco to Truckee, California. From Truckee, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Heavenly Mountain Resort, a journey of about 30 minutes.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
15. Mammoth Mountain, California, USA
Mammoth Mountain is a popular ski destination in California, known for its high altitude, challenging terrain, and vibrant après-ski scene. The resort boasts over 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, offering a wide range of runs for all abilities, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs. Mammoth Mountain is also home to several world-class restaurants, shops, and hotels.
Getting to Mammoth Mountain by Train: The Amtrak train travels from Los Angeles to Mojave, California. From Mojave, you can take a shuttle or rent a car to reach Mammoth Mountain, a journey of about 2 hours.
Best time to book: Book your train tickets and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds, but be aware that some lifts may be closed.
Tips for Planning Your Ski Trip by Train
Now that you’re inspired by the possibilities of reaching fantastic ski resorts by train, here are some tips for planning your ski trip by rail:
1. Book Early and Be Flexible
Train tickets, especially during peak season, can sell out quickly. Book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance, if not months in advance. You might also consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (November and March) for better rates and smaller crowds. Be flexible with your travel dates and consider traveling mid-week if possible to avoid the crowds and potentially save money.
2. Choose the Right Train for Your Needs
Not all trains are created equal. Consider your budget, travel time, and the amenities you require when choosing a train. For a faster and more comfortable journey, consider a high-speed train like the Eurostar Snow. For a more scenic and leisurely journey, consider a slower train with larger windows and amenities like dining cars and observation decks.
3. Pack Light and Pack Smart
Train travel can be a bit cramped, so pack light and pack smart. Choose versatile clothing that can be layered for different temperatures and weather conditions. Bring a small backpack with essentials like snacks, water, reading material, and electronics. Remember to pack comfortable shoes for walking around the train and at your destination.
4. Take Advantage of Train Amenities
Many trains offer amenities like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and dining cars. Take advantage of these amenities to stay entertained and connected during your journey. If you’re traveling with children, consider bringing along activities like games, books, or drawing supplies to keep them entertained.
5. Don’t Forget Your Ski Gear
If you’re planning to ski, remember to bring your ski gear, including skis, boots, poles, and helmet. Many trains offer luggage storage for ski equipment. Check with your train provider to learn about their baggage policies and fees.
6. Arrive at the Station Early
Allow plenty of time to get to the train station and check in for your train. You’ll need time to check your bags, find your platform, and settle into your seat. Especially during peak season, trains can be crowded, so arriving early can help you get a better seat and avoid any last-minute stress.
7. Be Prepared for Delays
Train delays can occur, especially during bad weather or when track maintenance is being performed. Be prepared for delays by bringing a book, magazine, or other entertainment options. You can also check the train schedule before you leave and keep an eye on any announcements during your journey.
Conclusion
Skiing by train is a unique and rewarding way to experience the mountains. It’s a more sustainable and often more relaxing way to travel than driving or flying. With so many fantastic ski resorts easily accessible by train, you can skip the stress of airport crowds and road trips and focus on enjoying your time on the slopes. So, gather your ski gear, book your train tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable ski adventure by rail.
