During the peak winter months, ski resorts are booming. The slopes are frequently packed down, lift ticket prices are high, and the lines are long virtually everywhere. While there is little doubt that skiing during this period is still exhilarating, the brief Après Ski Period at most resorts is actually the perfect time to enjoy some uncrowded and exciting skiing or snowboarding.

While the ski season begins as temperatures and snowfall allow, the end of the season is roughly the same each year for resorts. Many resorts are open for one or more months after the end of the peak season, and this is an excellent time for skiers to take advantage of lower prices and smaller crowds. Since most resorts have snow machines, there is no shortage of fresh powder atop the mountains, and it maintains the powder feel much longer without thousands of people skiing the mountain at any given time.

The Après Ski season is popular both in the United States and abroad, and virtually all ski resorts have such a season. Many South American and European ski areas have periods where crowds are miniscule and lift tickets are unbeatably priced. The timing for ski resort off seasons depends on the location, as while it begins in March in much of North America, in South America it ranges from June to September.

Visiting ski resorts in the off peak season has perks off the slopes as well. Hotel pricing is typically significantly cheaper, as are the prices at many finer ski resorts. In addition, shopping areas are less crowded and locals are more relaxed. Bars are also much more relaxed during the off season and it is usually much easier to get a drink and unwind without large crowds everywhere you turn.

In short, for people whose travel is not subject to school vacations, offseason ski vacations are often the most rewarding. Skiers typically find that they are met with more powder, less crowded mountains and resorts, lower prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere. While some people prefer the crowds and hustle that come with vacationing during the busiest periods, for many people a single off peak ski trip leads to an offseason return year after year. For those looking to maximize their skiing and enjoyment while saving a great deal of money and time, there is no better way to get all you wish than by enjoying an après ski season trip at any of the world’s most exhilarating ski destinations.