What Ski Resort Has the Highest Vertical Drop?

By Robert Palmer

Are you a skiing enthusiast? Do you love the thrill of gliding down a mountain with the wind in your face? If so, you probably know that one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a ski resort is the vertical drop.

The higher the vertical drop, the more challenging and exhilarating your run will be. So, what ski resort has the highest vertical drop? Let’s find out.

The Top Contenders

There are several ski resorts around the world that boast impressive vertical drops. Some of the top contenders include:

  • Whistler Blackcomb in Canada
  • Chamonix in France
  • La Grave in France
  • Alpe d’Huez in France
  • Jackson Hole in Wyoming, USA
  • Snowbird/Alta in Utah, USA

The Winner: La Grave, France

Out of all these remarkable ski resorts, La Grave takes the crown for having the highest vertical drop. Located in southeastern France near Grenoble, La Grave has a jaw-dropping vertical drop of 7,087 feet (2,160 meters). This means that skiers can enjoy an uninterrupted descent from its summit at an elevation of 12,467 feet (3,800 meters) all the way down to its base at just over 5,380 feet (1,640 meters).

What Makes La Grave So Special?

La Grave is not your typical ski resort. It does not have any groomed runs or lifts to take you to the top.

Instead, it offers off-piste skiing at its finest with unmarked trails and wild terrain that only experienced skiers should attempt. Visitors must hire a mountain guide to navigate through its steep slopes and glaciers, which only adds to its allure.

Other High Vertical Drop Ski Resorts

While La Grave may have the highest vertical drop, there are other ski resorts that come close. For example:

  • Chamonix in France has a vertical drop of 9,209 feet (2,807 meters)
  • Snowbird/Alta in Utah, USA has a vertical drop of 4,700 feet (1,433 meters)
  • Jackson Hole in Wyoming, USA has a vertical drop of 4,139 feet (1,262 meters)

Conclusion

If you’re an advanced skier looking for a challenge and an unforgettable experience, La Grave is the ski resort for you. Its impressive vertical drop and rugged terrain make it the ultimate destination for off-piste skiing. However, if you’re not quite ready for such an extreme adventure, there are plenty of other high vertical drop ski resorts around the world that will still provide a thrilling ride.