How to Snowboard Year-Round: A Global Guide

The Never Summer Season

It was mid-summer back home when I saw a post from New Zealand. They were just starting to accumulate snow. My mind was blown. I knew some places in the world had opposite seasons, but I realized that you could experience a fresh season when the snow had melted back home. The idea of chasing snow year-round was born.

The Global Snowboard Circuit

To snowboard year-round, you need to think globally. Different parts of the world offer fresh powder at various times of the year. I quickly learned to map out the best snowboarding destinations based on what was happening in each hemisphere.

1. Heating up in the North? Head South.

When summer kicks in on the other side of the world, I made my way to Chile. Their ski resort, Valle Nevado, offers snowboarding from late June to early October. This is right when the Northern Hemisphere resorts are winding down, and the Southern Hemisphere is just ramping up!

Valle Nevado snowboarding

2. Glacier Boarding: If You're Bold Enough

While most associate Europe with winter resorts like the Alps, there’s something much wilder in the EU: glacier boarding. Switzerland, France, and Austria all have glaciers that stay open all year. I tested it on the Dachstein Glacier in Austria. Trust me; it is surreal! However, it’s not for the faint of heart. Glacier boarding at high altitudes can be challenging, requiring acclimatization and extra precautions.

There are loads of hazards associated with glaciers, including ice cliffs, crevasses, and falling rocks. Weather conditions can turn gnarly, with sudden changes in low visibility and strong winds.

Snowboarder Dachstein Glacier in Austria

3. Get Down Under

Chasing snow year-round led me to New Zealand, where the whole idea started. There, winter flips the script. Treble Cone has raw, untamed terrain and breathtaking views. The vibe is laid-back, but the riding is seriously challenging. After a Northern Hemisphere season, dropping into Kiwi winter feels like hitting rewind on the dream—another chance to chase fresh tracks and keep the stoke alive.

4. Time to Head Back North?

As the snow begins to melt in the Southern Hemisphere, it's time to think about making your way back up North for the fall season. There’s a sweet spot in late September and early October when, if you're lucky, resorts like Whistler and Mammoth Mountain start their early season operations. Mammoth is my go-to!

Me at Mammoth Mountain

Gear Up for the Journey

If you're chasing snow year-round, you quickly learn that your gear needs to be as versatile as your travel schedule. I learned (the hard way) to pack smart and be prepared for different conditions—sometimes in the same day.

Layering

While I always have my base layers and snowboarding pants, I also ensure to bring lighter gear for warmer conditions. In summer, snowboarding can still be chilly at the mountain's top, but it’s a far cry from the depths of winter. Therefore, a breathable, moisture-wicking jacket and lighter gloves are essential.

Board Variety

Not all boards are created equal. Each spot has its unique conditions, so you’ll want to find the right one for each location. I had a Never Summer F1 pow board, an all-mountain board (Ride or GNU, I can't remember), and I tried out a few rentals along the way.

The Local Culture of Snowboarding Year-Round

Snowboarding year-round isn't just about the snow. It’s about meeting people from around the world, chatting up on chairlifts, and seeing how snowboarding culture differs across continents. The passion is the same, whether in New Zealand, preparing for a shred session in California, or shredding a spring session in Japan.

One of my favorite things about traveling and snowboarding year-round is experiencing local scenes. In Japan, the snow is unlike anything I've ever encountered. In New Zealand, the vibe is laid-back, where I often end my days with a beer and BBQ. In Chile, the Southern Hemisphere winter feels like a refreshing, less crowded escape from the hustle of US and Canadian resorts.

The Best Part: Endless Adventure

The most rewarding part of snowboarding year-round isn’t just the riding—it’s the adventure itself. Each trip is a new challenge, a new experience, and a chance to connect with a community of riders who share the same passion. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing snowboarding year-round, take the plunge. Invest in the gear, plan your trips, and get ready to chase winter across the globe. It’s a whole new level.

Happy Shredding!

If you enjoyed this post and want to learn more about snowboarding adventures, destinations, and tips, feel free to subscribe for more stories from the slopes!