The best ski resorts in Russia: where to ski and snowboard

Après ski is just around the corner, so we hope you’ve already got all your winter clothes ready. Although we will not be able to see the ski resorts in Europe this year, this is not a reason to be sad yet. Moreover, this year, domestic tracks are the new focus of attention for all ski and snowboard enthusiasts.

If your schedule does not allow you to go to the Caucasus or Elbrus region, go to the nearest Moscow region. We wrote down all the trendy places where you can board without going to the mountains. But if your soul needs real extreme sports, you can’t get off the slopes near Moscow so easily. We tell you about the best and most famous ski resorts in Russia, where you can ski and snowboard and have a great holiday.

North Caucasus

When it comes to ski resorts in Russia, the first thing that comes to mind is the North Caucasus mountains. Rosa Khutor, Russia’s fastest growing resort, is also located here. It has a variety of slopes suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort in Krasnaya Polyana is very well located – everything is a few minutes away: restaurants and sports equipment departments.

By the way, you don’t have to worry about transportation. There are regular train services to the mountains from Adler. You can also always benefit from taxi or regular bus services from both Adler and the airport.

Another place for lovers of all winter activities is the Gazprom ski complex. It has the same developed infrastructure and convenient location. Gazprom has two separated ski areas: for beginners and confident skiers and snowboarders. The first area is called “Laura”, designed for those who are just learning to ride. There are 21 tracks in this region, from green to black.

The second region is called “Alpika”. It is represented by only five parts: three red and two black. However, it is designed for advanced skiers and snowboarders.

caucasian ridge

If you have been to the resorts of Polyana more than once, we advise you to take a closer look at the equally popular and valuable resorts of Karachay-Cherkessia.

For example, Dombay Mountain ski resort for professionals and extreme sports enthusiasts. But experienced travelers say that the slopes are not the most modern. Therefore, be prepared for the fact that your card will not be accepted everywhere here.

But the Arkhyz facility is the exact opposite. This is the newest resort in the Caucasus. The trails here meet all modern safety requirements and will appeal to avid mountain lovers. There are many times fewer people in Arkhyz than in Krasnaya Polyana, and the infrastructure is certainly not worse. The hotels are located in two villages, between which there is a regular bus. There are also many shops here, including equipment rentals. Wide and well-prepared tracks are suitable for skiing at all levels. And it’s always sunny here.

Elbrus region

Conquering Elbrus is everyone’s dream. When planning a trip to Kabardino-Balkaria, tourists often choose between the mountain resorts of Azau and Cheget. Both have modern hotels, restaurants and spa centers that provide comfortable accommodation and relaxation after active skiing. For those who have not yet learned to ride, there are snowmobiles and horseback riding opportunities.

The resort of Azau at the foot of Elbrus has been known for more than fifty years. The mountain peaks are covered with a thick layer of snow almost all year round, which allows you to ski here in all seasons. The width and coverage of the tracks allow both beginners and professionals to ski.

“Cheget” is located below Azau and is suitable for freeride lovers. If you have experience and love for driving on rough off-piste surfaces, do not hesitate to go here. The resort is well equipped not only with trails but also with infrastructure. Here you can find hotels for every budget, food and entertainment for every taste. There are some interesting things for example; You can go to see the waterfalls or go to Narzan hot springs for treatment.

Ural Mountains

The Urals also have places to ride and lots to choose from. There are nearly 50 ski resorts in the region. The most famous among them are “Abzakovo” and “Banne”.

“Abzakovo” or in other words “Ural Switzerland” is located in the southern part of the Ural Mountains. This is one of the most modern Russian health and sports complexes to which you will want to return. There are many trails and they are all located in the middle of the forest. And the coverage there is excellent. Even beginners can ride safely as it is maintained by experts throughout the season. Russian national teams often come here to train, so don’t be surprised if you meet a famous athlete.

Bannoe resort is also located in the middle of the Southern Urals. Its territory is small, guests have only four pistes at their disposal, but there is something to do here besides skiing. Near the ski resort there is an area for karting, paintball and cross-country skiing.

ski season

The best months for skiing in Krasnaya Polyana are February and March, but snow cover allows skiing from December to mid-May. Gazprom resort invites skiers and snowboarders in the second half of December and promises best coverage until April.

In both Dombay and Arkhyz, the season starts in December and ends in mid-April.

It is best to go to Cheget from December to April, and the Azau resort welcomes its guests from October to May.

The ski season in Abzakovo opens in November and lasts almost until May. To find the best piste coverage, it is best to go skiing in Bannoye in winter.

Color codes for ski slopes

green roads designed for beginners. They have gentle slopes and are best suited for teaching skiing to both children and novice adults.

Blue – low difficulty trails. There are already variable terrains here that will be comfortable for amateurs. This route is also suitable for those who have not skied for a long time and want to remember their basic skills.

red roads They are rated as moderately difficult runs, although they are still safe for most people. However, you may encounter unexpected turns, steep slopes and bumps. We advise already experienced skiers and snowboarders to go down the red slopes.

Black – the most dangerous for desperate mountain lovers. There are narrow descents and sharp turns. Usually such routes are not cultivated in any way, so it is impossible to predict what the terrain will be like.

Tips for tourists

– do not neglect quality equipment.

Skis or snowboards must be perfect and suitable for your height. Clothes should be warm so that you can stay warm in unforeseen situations. The helmet is your main protection.

– remember the safety precautions.

Study the weather and terrain before setting out. Be careful around others: do not deliberately push or knock them down, especially beginners. The track is not the place to fight.

– choose a route suitable for your ski level

Don’t try your luck on more difficult descents right away. This may be unsafe for you and others. Work on the easier skills first to feel more confident.

– Make sure weather conditions are normal

Check the weather forecast before you set off. It is not recommended to drive in strong wind, fog or snow as visibility will be impaired.

– don’t forget to rest and try other mountain activities

A good rest after a busy day in the mountains will help you recover quickly and prepare for future skiing. Hot tea and a delicious dinner will keep you warm and put you in a great mood.

Text: Alisa Kazakova