9 World-Famous Ski Resorts Facing Closure by 2050

As skiers get ready to go skiing this season, a worrying problem is hanging over some of the most famous ski resorts in the world. Although winter lovers look forward to new snow, the harsh truth is that climate change is gradually removing these cherished destinations from existence.

The FIS and WMO recently came together to address an urgent problem of climate change that most ski resorts face: Climate Change. Their discoveries present a bleak outlook for global ski tourism, as several renowned resorts may face the possibility of shutting down by 2050.

This piece goes beyond the surface, offering an in-depth look at the forces threatening the world’s favourite ski havens, how they are adapting (or not), and why the clock is ticking faster than you think.

Ski resorts are, by nature, located in vulnerable alpine ecosystems. They depend on predictable snowfall and cold winters to survive.

Nevertheless, not all resorts are impacted by climate change in the same way. Elevation, distance from urban heat islands, and dependence on tourism are key factors in determining which resorts are at the greatest risk.

One of the most noticeable things in the alarming trend is the rapid rise of the "zero-degree line". The altitude where temperatures hover around freezing affects these resorts.

Research indicates that the Alps have seen an average 8.4% decline in snow cover per decade since the 1970s. The zero-degree level (the altitude at which snow rests) has risen by 250 meters in the last 50 years and is predicted to increase by another 400-650 meters by 2060.

In Switzerland, this line has climbed from 600m to 850m above sea level over the years. Projections suggest it could reach a staggering 1,500m by 2060 without significant mitigation efforts.

From 2000 to 2019, ski areas in the United States in North America suffered a substantial loss of £3.9 billion as a result of rising temperatures. Europe could lose more than half of its ski resorts if temperatures increase by 2°C from pre-industrial levels. Asia, including the Japanese Alps, is not exempt from experiencing notable shifts in snowfall patterns.

As we approach the upcoming ski season, let's examine seven renowned resorts across different countries that face an uncertain future due to the warming climate.

The Swiss Alps, nestled in Verbier, has breathtaking scenery and is famous for its challenging slopes. Yet, the future of the area is under threat due to inconsistent snowfall at lower heights. 

Verbier's lower slopes start at 1,500 meters, making them increasingly vulnerable to rising temperatures.

Climate Threats: The significant worries include increasing zero-degree levels and decreased snowfall. By the year 2060, it is possible that the snow line could increase to 1,500 meters, causing Verbier's lower slopes to be exposed.

Expected End: Between 2035 and 2050

The closure of Verbier would severely damage the local economy, resulting in millions of lost tourism revenue. This could be over £21.6 billion lost in tourism alone. 

Les Trois Vallées, Courchevel, is part of the world's largest ski area, which now faces significant challenges. The decrease in glacial size and rising temperatures could result in less reliable snow conditions, with a projected 40% drop by 2035.

Climate Threats: Shorter seasons and unreliable snow cover, particularly on lower slopes.

Projected Closure: 2037-2042

Economic Impact: The resort's luxury tourism sector would suffer, affecting thousands of jobs. The resort contributes approximately £815 million annually to local and regional economies, with local businesses and jobs heavily reliant on the winter season.

Whistler Blackcomb is a global favourite, drawing millions of visitors to British Columbia's beautiful terrain. However, with a rapidly warming climate, snow seasons are growing shorter, and natural snowfall is increasingly unreliable.

Climate Threats: Increasing temperatures have shortened the snow season, reducing average snow cover by 20% compared to five years ago, which was hovering around 10-12%. 

Whistler’s heavy dependence on natural snowfall leaves it vulnerable. If these trends continue, the resort could face irreversible damage. 

Projected Closure Date: 2040 - 2050

Economic Impact: The local economy heavily relies on tourism, which could potentially cause a loss of £16 million annually for the region. Job losses and business closures are expected to ripple through the region.

This iconic American ski destination is not immune to climate change. Aspen's reputation for luxury and exclusivity often overshadows the growing threat it faces. Colorado’s rising temperatures occur twice the global average, which means a shorter ski season and less reliable snow cover. 

Aspen is already experiencing shortened seasons and increased use of snowmaking Snowmaking technology. Although useful, it can’t replicate the feel of natural snow. 

Climate Threats: Temperatures in the Rockies are increasing at twice the global average, with snow cover shrinking by 25%. This means that the rising temperatures reduced snowfall and increased the precipitated rain instead of snow. 

Projected Closure Date: 2040-2050

Economic Impact: Aspen generates over £500 million annually from tourism. The local real estate market, reliant on seasonal visitors, faces significant declines. However, the effect of climate change on the US ski industry has already suffered a £3.796 billion loss, with Aspen being a substantial contributor to this loss.

Aspen may no longer be a winter playground, impacting both tourism and the real estate market, which depends on seasonal visitors.

Famous for its powder snow, Niseko has become a top skiing destination for international visitors, particularly from Asia. Winter snowfall amounts to 14 to 15 meters, and snow depths are as high as 5 meters at peak times. The resort area experiences snowfall for 80 to 100 days during the winter season, particularly from January to February.

Yet, the warming climate is reducing snowfalls across Hokkaido. 

Climate Threats: Rising sea temperatures are causing erratic snowfall patterns. By 2035, Niseko may see a 20% drop in snow levels, significantly shortening its ski season.

Projected Closure: 2040-2050

Economic Impact: Niseko's closure would be a major blow to Hokkaido's winter tourism industry. However, Niseko has been diversifying its offerings to include year-round activities. In summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, golfing, mountain biking, and rafting.

The Mer de Glace - Chamonix, one of the oldest and most well-known ski resorts in Europe, is also on borrowed time. The glacier is losing approximately six meters of thickness every year. 

This recession has been so dramatic that a new cable car was installed in 2024 to allow visitors to reach the ice, as the previous access point is now far above the glacier's surface. 

Like many resorts, Chamonix is likely increasing its use of snow-making technology, though this solution is energy-intensive and contributes to further climate change.

Climate Threats: Glacial retreat and warming temperatures between 5-15°C have threatened to reduce snow reliability, with a 25% decline expected by 2035.

Projected Closure Date: 2040

Economic Impact: The region attracts about 3 million visitors annually. The tourism industry in Chamonix generates substantial revenue. Direct expenditure from tourism amounts to £731 million per year, with an additional £344 million in indirect spending. If the current persists, around 6,000 jobs in the Chamonix Valley will be at risk.

Val d'Isère is one of the highest and most snow-reliable resorts in Europe. The resort sits at 1,850m (6,070ft), and its highest lifts reach 3,400m (11,150ft). This high altitude, combined with favourable topography and local weather patterns, contributes to Val d'Isère having some of the best snow records in Europe.

Climate Threats: Increasing air temperatures lead to less snowfall, particularly affecting lower slopes and glaciers. Experts warn that although advanced snow retention systems and snowmaking technologies have been deployed, these efforts may only delay the inevitable.

Projected Closure: 2050

Economic Impact:  If temperatures continue to rise, Val d'Isère's closure would mean significant job losses in tourism and related sectors. However, the resort is taking steps to adapt to changing conditions, such as offering promotional packages for spring and summer skiing.

Cortina offers about 120 km of slopes but faces reduced snowfall and rising temperatures. This resort, famed for hosting the Winter Olympics in 1956 and the upcoming 2026 Games, faces a stark reality.

Some experts predict that within ten years, skiing may only be possible above 2,000 meters, even with snow cannons.

Climate Threats: A 20% reduction in snow cover is predicted by 2040, with shorter winters and less predictable snowfall. Glacier retreat and disappearance are already evident in the Alpine area. 

The average temperature in the region has risen by 3°C since 1961.

Projected Closure Date: 2040 - 2050

Economic Impact: The industry is currently generating over £300 million annually. The resort's closure would devastate the local economy, with far-reaching effects, primarily on jobs. Besides, there is an increased reliance on artificial snow, though this is becoming more expensive due to rising electricity costs. 

Zermatt, nestled in the shadow of the iconic Matterhorn, is one of Europe’s premier skiing destinations. It is renowned for its stunning views and year-round skiing opportunities, with the Matterhorn Ski Paradise being the highest ski area in the Alps.

The resort offers 360 km of slopes across Zermatt and the connected Italian resorts of Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche. The area features modern infrastructure, including state-of-the-art lifts and cable cars like the Matterhorn Glacier Ride. 

The resort has a variety of terrain for all skill levels, but it's especially renowned for its advanced and off-piste skiing.

Climate Threats: Significant glacier melting and rising temperatures threaten snow reliability. Currently, 75% of the slopes are covered by artificial snow or situated on glaciers. The resort has increased its snowmaking capabilities. 

Despite investing heavily in snowmaking technology and renewable energy (solar panels and Wind energy), the resort's future remains heavily dependent on the glaciers. If they disappear, skiing in Zermatt will also be at risk.

Projected Closure Date: Not disclosed, but experts predict beyond 2040

Economic Impact: The Matterhorn Ski Paradise tourism is said to generate approximately £900 million annually. Zermatt's economy heavily depends on winter tourism. Closure would lead to significant job losses and reduced local income.

While each resort has its unique struggles, one truth binds them all: the ski industry cannot afford to ignore the warning signs any longer. Snowmaking and carbon offsetting can only do so much. 

Besides, snowmaking machines are highly energy-intensive. Some of this technology can produce approximately 478,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity annually, resulting in 130,095 tons of CO2 emissions. This is equivalent to the annual energy consumption of nearly 17,000 households.

Johan Eliasch, FIS President, states: "The climate crisis is obviously far bigger than FIS  or sports, for that matter. It is a genuine crossroads for mankind, which is an existential threat to skiing and snowboarding."

We can only protect what’s left by taking a holistic approach that includes rethinking tourism, encouraging sustainable travel, and advocating for more aggressive climate action. With low-altitude ski stations below 1,600m, more rain-on-snow events are occurring, increasing snow melt.

Celeste Saulo, WMO Secretary-General: "This is about more than just disrupted vacations; the long-term impacts on mountain ecosystems and economies will be profound."

Hence, the future of ski resorts is widely dependent on our united efforts to combat climate change. Governments, businesses, and individuals need to work together to decrease emissions and encourage sustainable behaviours. 

By taking action immediately, we have the opportunity to safeguard not only our beloved winter destination or sustainability in sports innovations and renewable energy but also the jobs of millions who rely on them.

The end of these ski resorts would mean more than just a loss of recreational spaces. Entire communities, industries, and economies depend on the winter season. 

Climate change is already affecting the ski industry, so the real question is: Can we adapt quickly enough to preserve these iconic ski destinations for future generations, or will climate change forever alter the landscape of winter recreation?

Inemesit Ukpanah, GreenMatch’s Climate and Environmental expert, warns: 

The current concern is the speed at which we can take action to guarantee that future generations can continue enjoying the enchantment of skiing.