Skiing and Snowboarding in Mongolia 2024-2025

The Altai Mountains of Mongolia are a premier destination for skiing, offering breathtaking scenery and exhilarating free rides. While Mongolia's winters can be brutally cold, the untouched, snow-covered wilderness remains stunning. Mongolia boasts two main ski resorts: Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, ideal for cross-country skiing, and Sky Resort, where skiers can enjoy night skiing with views of the illuminated capital city below. Despite the harsh cold, winter is far from a bad time to experience Mongolia's natural beauty.

Ski Season

The best time to plan a ski trip to Mongolia is between mid-November and March, during the calm winter months. However, it's advisable to avoid the start and end of the season, as snow conditions may not be ideal for skiing or snowboarding. Mongolia's winter typically brings temperatures ranging from -10°C to -20°C, with occasional drops to as low as -40°C. Snow quality varies, but well-groomed slopes are available at the resorts when there's sufficient snowfall.

Sky Resort – Ulaanbaatar

Mongolia's largest ski resorts offer up to 6 kilometers of slopes, with Sky Resort near Ulaanbaatar being the most prominent. The highest altitude for skiing in the country reaches 1,596 meters at Sky Resort, which is just 13 km from the capital, making it perfect for day trips. This resort offers a unique nighttime skiing experience, providing skiers with a stunning view of Ulaanbaatar's skyline. Sky Resort features two large chair lifts, and eight ski runs with distinct names like Zalaat and Khurkhreet, catering to various skill levels. The slopes include 3 km of blue, 2 km of red, and 1 km of black pistes, as well as four green runs for beginners. There's also a sledding run and four practice lifts, with equipment rentals and tutors available for beginners.

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park is ideal for cross-country skiing, offering expansive, snow-covered landscapes perfect for gliding through serene winter terrain. In winter, the park transforms into a picturesque wonderland with a range of activities, including dog sledding and ice fishing, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Winter Activities in Mongolia

Mongolia offers a range of other outdoor sports during winter, such as dog sledding, ice fishing, and horse-drawn sleigh riding. It's also an excellent opportunity to appreciate Mongolia's distinct heritage by visiting nomadic communities and experiencing Mongolian cuisine. Visiting Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, is another opportunity to enjoy museums, galleries, and the vibrant nightlife scene.

Safety Tips

If you are going skiing or snowboarding in Mongolia, you must take appropriate winter wear precautions such as thermal gear, gloves, hats, and warm coats. Carrying an emergency medical kit and informing someone about the trip is necessary, and taking lessons before attempting to ski off-piste is a must for novices. Lastly, snowdrifts need to be avoided, and ice formations must be thoroughly assessed before taking a step.