Nevados de Chillan

Nevados de Chillan is nestled in between three active volcanos. Although not as well known as Portillo or Valle Nevado, it’s probably the best all-around resort in Chile. There are plenty of trails and wide open runs for beginners but it’s the unique undulating terrain—left by ancient lava rivers—that makes this place special. Small bowls, mini drop-offs, powdery steeps, and half-pipes are all part of the natural terrain here in Chillán.

What we love about Nevados de Chillán

The View

We say this about a lot of the resorts here in Chile but the view here is spectacular. On clear days, the views are great but it’s the sunsets that will blow you away.

The Terrain

Nevados de Chillán offers something special for intermediate and advanced skiers/snowboarders. Beginners will find a variety of runs on the lower half of the mountain. However, the top half of the mountain offers a wide range of natural features that are a lot of fun. This unusual terrain is a byproduct of historic lava flow running down the mountain leaving behind a playground for skiers and snowboarders.

After huge snowfalls, Nevados de Chillán offers some of the best glade runs you’ll find in Chile. The trees offer great protection and better visibility on heavy snow days. They get up to 400 inches of snow annually so there are plenty of chances to find some powdery tree runs.

Thermal Pools

The area surrounding Nevados de Chillán is known for its thermal pools. In fact, the resort itself was previously known as Termas de Chillán. These hot springs (termas) are not to be missed—especially after a long day on the mountain. The average temperatures in these pools are 140° F (60° C) and the water is filled with lots of great minerals like iron, sulfur, manganese, magnesium, and potassium. A trip to the hot springs and some poolside pisco sours will definitely help you bounce back for another day on the mountain.

What to expect

Conditions 

Snow conditions are similar to those found in Tahoe, California. Lower elevations can be wet/heavy but higher elevations get consistent snow with drier powdery conditions. Nevados de Chillán probably gets the most snow of any of the resorts in Chile so the chances are good you’ll get fresh tracks. The downside is that the top half of the mountain often closes during storms due to wind conditions. Our advice—book at least a week’s stay so you can take full advantage of the snow when the winds die down.

Beginners will find easy runs at the base of the mountain. More Advanced beginners and intermediates will enjoy the middle section of the mountain where they’ll find glades and challenging tree sections (best on snow days). Advanced intermediates and Experts will be at home at the top of the mountain and off-piste.

Accommodations 

Many of the hotels in the area offer inclusive packages for lifts, food, and lodging. There are three main hotels in the area; Hotel Alto Nevados, Hotel Nevados de Chillan, and Gran Hotel Termas de Chillán. All three hotels offer ski-in/ski-out accommodations but the Gran Hotel Termas de Chillán is the most impressive of the bunch. Situated at the base of the resort, it has everything you want in a 5-star hotel; gourmet restaurants, amazing day spas, access to thermal pools, a relaxing hotel bar, child care, free WiFi, and much more. If you’re staying for the week, we highly recommend staying here. You won’t be sorry—especially after your complimentary pisco sour upon arrival.

Night Life

Chillán isn’t a resort for night owls. There are a few spots that might stay open late but for the most part, the bars close around midnight. If you are looking for some late-night action, the village of Las Trancas is where you’ll want to be. It’s just a short drive down the mountain and offers a more authentic feel than the resort atmosphere of the three main resort hotels. Snow Pub is a good place to start.

Nevados de Chillán

Best time to go: July -September

Best time to book: November-May

Top Elevation: 8,990 feet

Annual Snowfall: 360-400 in

Vertical drop: 4,003 feet

Number of Lifts: 13