The ultimate guide to queer ski weeks

It’s the season to strap on some ski boots and make your way down snowy mountains. Why not do that surrounded by a dozen or so other LGBTQ+ skiers?

It’s also the season for a dozen gay ski weeks that conveniently pop up around the same time. Queer skiers and snowboarders are coming from far and wide to celebrate with folks they can relate to.

More and more travel trends are appearing that cater to queer folks, and that’s indicative of our growing buying power. We caught up recently with Alex Herkommer, co-organizer of the Arosa Gay Ski Week in Switzerland, and asked how gay ski weeks have evolved, especially theirs.

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“Arosa Gay Ski Week started as a small gathering and has grown into an internationally recognized event that reflects the diversity of our community. We’ve worked hard to welcome more queer women, trans and non-binary participants, and people of color. Our lineup has expanded to include lesbian DJs, drag artists, and queer performers of all backgrounds. Today, AGSW celebrates the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ identities, and we’re so proud of how it continues to evolve.” 

What better time to shine a light on other destinations that offer comfort and acceptance? Here’s how to choose the right queer ski destination. Whether you’re hitting the bunny slope or scaling down a black diamond, we’re confident that at least one of these queer destinations will inspire you. 

Bend, Oregon

Oregon is already a great destination if you enjoy anything outdoors. With more than 361 state parks, it’s not a surprise it’s on this list. Oregon as a whole has been a healthy proponent of LGBTQ+ rights and has pushed continual amendments to protect same-sex marriage and gender-affirming care. The Pacific Northwest starts with Oregon, and you can expect the 33rd state to have some fun outdoor spots for would-be skiers. Winter PrideFest also has its annual queer ski week. It started in Bend in 2018, and its numbers have risen steadily. Here, you can enjoy drag shows, comedy nights, and other themed events outside of hitting the slopes at Mt. Bachelor. 

Arosa, Switzerland 

Since 2005, Arosa Gay Ski Week has appealed to queer groups that enjoy the snowy mountains of the Swiss Alps. Asked where a would-be queer skier would start, Herkommer said, “For anyone curious about skiing, I recommend: Joining LGBTQ+ ski groups or events like AGSW and connecting with local queer sports networks. Taking beginner lessons in a supportive environment. Remembering that everyone starts somewhere—there’s no ‘right’ way to enjoy winter sports.”

“The mountains don’t care about your gender, sexuality, or background, nor do we. Arosa welcomes everyone equally.”

Tignes, France 

If you’ve ever wondered what the picture-perfect winter village would look like, look no further. Tignes is a collection of different villages in the French Alps. They ooze ski elegance and are known for having some of the best slopes in Europe.

Europe’s most prominent gay winter festival happens here every March. For one week, you can bop around with other queer folks. European Snow Pride was started in 2015 to create more inclusivity in the sport, and you’ll find more than 40 events during its run. It also offers excellent financial packages. 

Queenstown, New Zealand 

Since winter starts in June in New Zealand, most festivals fall around August. This is a perfect opportunity for would-be queer travelers who don’t want to be crammed in during peak seasons in the Americas or Europe. It also allows you to explore New Zealand; who wouldn’t say no?

Queenstown is a small town on Lake Wakatipu’s shores known for everything outdoors. If you’re into beautiful landscapes, and adventure traveling and don’t mind a long flight, check out Queenstown, New Zealand, during (America’s) summer for a queer holiday. 

Andorra

The micronation of Andorra is mighty, especially during the conventional winter period when the nation comes alive and ski resorts are open left and right. It’s known for having some of the most affordable prices for the sport in Europe. Lift prices are reasonable, and most resorts offer hostel amenities that won’t cost an arm or leg. Ski resorts like Grandvalira are perfect for hitting the European slopes. You can fly into Barcelona, and with just a short drive over, you’re in the tiny country.

While the queer scene is developing here, it’s ever-more important to support the LGBTQ+ community living here with your patronage.

Urabandai, Japan

Japan is a secret ski destination that has yet to be discovered by many folks from the Americas. With a blossoming urban queer culture happening in Tokyo, it’s not a surprise that the queers are traveling to the town to strap on their skis.

In the Fukushima Prefecture area, Urabandai is a resort that hosts Rainbow Ski Weekend in March. Packages are available, and who wouldn’t want to ski on one of Japan’s most popular slopes? While the drag shows and social events are interesting, the real winner is the open-air bath on Lake Hibara. 

Jasper, Canada 

Canada is jam-packed with different ski destinations. For years, places like Whistler, Vail, and Banff have dominated the global market. With Canada’s reputation as one the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world, it’s no surprise the concepts of ski and gay would blend nicely together. Located in the Alberta province, Jasper is a nature-lovers wonderland. With beautiful lakes and mountainscapes, it’s not surprising you can find some great skiing here.

Jasper Pride & Ski Festival will happen sometime in 2025. We can’t wait. 

Stowe, Vermont

The East Coast of the United States is no stranger to winter activities, and pride festivals happen on every corner. Winter Rendezvous will be celebrating its 41st year of operation this year, and it’s a party you want to attend. This will happen in late January, and it’ll be filled with activities, parties, and tons of things to do in town. 

You don’t have to be at every winter week to belong to the queer ski community. By sharing your passions and joining together, you show the world and each other that we belong on the mountain. This year, before hitting the black diamond or bunny slope, know that your existence in this sport is an act of defiance that pushes it to be more diverse and accepting.

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