Just where are the world’s largest ski areas, and how large are they?
Based on advertised data compiled by Rob Hodgetts on CNN.com here’s a rundown of the world’s 12 largest ski areas, with European ski areas being measured in kilometers of runs:
1. Les 3 Vallees, France
- Size: 600 kilometers of runs.
2. Portes du Soleil, France
- Size: Advertises 650 kilometers of runs (However, several gaps in the lift system means it probably has less and is why it’s ranked #2 on this list).
3. Sella Ronda, Italy
- Size: 500 kilometers of runs.
4. Paradiski, France
- Size: 425 kilometers with 160 lifts.
5. 4 Vallees, Switzerland
- Size: 412 kilometers of runs.
6. Milky Way, Italy-France
- Size: 400 kilometers of runs.
7. Matterhorn Ski Paradise, Switzerland
- Size: 200 kilometers of trails.
8. Arlberg Ski Area, Austria
- Size: 305 kilometers of runs.
9. Val d’Isere and Tignes, France
- Size: 300 kilometers of runs.
10. Alpe d’Huez and Les Deux Alpes, France
- Size: 220 kilometers of runs.
And then back to the American system which uses acres:
11. Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada
- Size: 8,171-acres
12. Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
- Size: 7,300-acres
In skiing, bigger definitely doesn’t mean higher, steeper, more challenging, more fun, higher quality snow, or better.
To keep posting articles about such ranking is futile. Criteria are not clearly established and the results compiled by journalists filling up copy.
I would not be the only one to dispute this latest attempt. Come on, you can provide better information by sourcing it more accurately!!