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Chile Backcountry Skiing: Summer’s Best-Kept Secret?

Snow in July? Welcome to the Andes. While the Northern Hemisphere is sweating through summer, skiing in Chile’s backcountry opens up powder-filled volcanoes, remote peaks, and quiet touring lines. For skiers and splitboarders chasing off-season turns, this part of South America is a hidden gem.

Thinking about planning a trip but feeling unsure? You’re not alone. Many riders wonder:

  • Is Chile’s snow actually worth the trip?

  • When’s the best time for deep powder or smooth corn?

  • Can I tour right from a resort, or do I need to go remote?

  • What kind of experience or gear do I need?

  • Is it safer to go guided—and how do I choose the right trip?

If these questions sound familiar, you're not alone—and you're in good hands. Since 1999, PowderQuest has been guiding skiers and snowboarders through Chile’s incredible backcountry. Their detailed guide to backcountry skiing in Chile breaks it all down—what to expect, where to go, when to go, and how to prepare. Whether you're planning your first trip or looking to go deeper into untouched terrain, this is the place to start.

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