Are you tired of the same old slopes you find in American ski resorts? If you have the time and money to travel, then skiing in the Mountains of Valle Nevado is an exciting new possibility. Valle Nevado is a ski resort located neat Santiago, Chile. This resort is relatively new as it was founded in 1988 by French businessmen. It was modeled on popular and successful ski resorts in the European Alps. Since its creation in the Eighties, the resort has undergone constant renovations which have helped it remain competitive with other modern ski resorts. Ski season at Valle Nevado runs from June through October, assuming the conditions permit it, with prices peaking after the fourth weekend of July. Valle Nevado contains 102 trails and also has a terrain park and a half pipe. There are 8 lifts leading to these trails.

Valle Nevado is suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. There are more than 70 instructors for beginners on the property. For lovers of extreme sports, the Snow Park contains jumps and room for free-style snowboarding. The Snowboard park also has a half pipe. For those looking for a challenge, there is an extensive bump-area which offers challenges in technique and balance.

This ski resort is somewhat unique in that it offers 'heliskiing'. Heliskiing is a type of skiing characterized by off-trail, downhill skiing that does not use a ski lift. Instead, a helicopter is used to drop skiers on the prime sections of a mountain which allows skiers to work their way back toward a road. This type of skiing is perfect for people who want to experience an un-manipulated mountain and its natural beauty without the effort and equipment assosciated with hiking. Heliskiing usually occurs in groups of 4 to 12, including a guide. If you plan on taking advantage of this, be sure to take note of the equipment required. Clothing is the same as typical ski-resort clothing, but bulkier, "all-mountain" skis are used by most heliskiers. Also, an avalanche transceiver is necessary, helping to minimize the risk of danger from avalanches.

The entry and exit of these slopes follows a strict schedule. By car, the road to Valle Nevado permits only upward travel from 8AM to 2PM. The road only permits descending travel from 2PM to 8PM. It is also mandatory to carry chains while traveling.

There are multiple lodging options at Valle Nevado. The Valle Nevado Hotel is a 53 room hotel equipped with restaurants, lounges, and ski-in and ski-out access. There are many special offers for guests of this hotel, which are available through the hotel´s website. If you are looking for a more family-oriented hotel, the Puerto del Sol Hotel is more appropriate, with rooms that overlook the slopes and the mountains. The Tres Puntas Hotel is a more economical option located just 450 feet from the slopes. There are restaurants and a pub on the property. There is also an apartment complex with 6 person and 8 person apartments for rent. These hotels offer fitness centers, shows, spas, and much more. There are six dining options for skiers. These include two fast food options as well as four other restaurants. These restaurants specialize in French, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine.