Top 5: Snowsure ski resorts

Whistler Blackcomb

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Snowsure ski resorts: Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

Settled between two mountains, the Whistler Blackcomb ski resort offers 3,307 hectares (8,171 acres) of terrain to explore and a number of different ways to explore it. Everything from skiing and snowboarding to zip wire and aviation tours are possible here. The resort keeps both mountains open until 25 April and has an average yearly snowfall of 10.25m (33.7ft) at the summit.

Snowsure ski resorts: Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt
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Located at the foot of the Matterhorn, the most photographed mountain in the world, Zermatt is breathtaking. With 350km (217 miles) of pistes to explore in the winter and 20km (12 miles) in the summer, skiing in Zermatt is possible every day of the year. Embark on a ski safari and cover up to 12,500m (41,010ft) of altitude in one day. Though the air is thin, it's sure to be clean, as Zermatt is a car-free village.

Snowsure ski resorts: Val Thorens, France

Val Thorens
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There's a run for everyone at Val Thorens. The resort includes a designated learning area for beginners, extensive red-rated terrain for intermediates, and powder fields and steep slopes that never fail to challenge experts. Val Thorens is the highest resort in the Alps, so the snow is dependable. If Mother Nature doesn't supply enough flakes, the resort has an arsenal of 2,000 snowmaking guns to bridge the gap.

Snowsure ski resorts: Are, Sweden

Are
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Are has been a top destination for winter sports for over 100 years. The resort is made up of three different villages each with different atmospheres, so there's something for everyone to enjoy. Are remains open until 1 May and guarantees a minimum of 10 pistes will remain open until then.

Snowsure ski resorts: Mammoth, USA

Mammoth
www.mammothmountain.com

With 150 named trails that see the California sun more than 300 days a year, it's no wonder Mammoth ranks as one of North America's highest rated resorts. Mammoth also offers one of the longest ski seasons in the world, remaining open until June. The resort is continually making improvements, including the Roving Mammoth that was introduced this year. There are two Roving Mammoths, which are snowcats that move around the mountain serving up delicious food to guests who have no interest in slowing down.