The Best Ski Resorts for Powder Skiing in Europe
Fresh, untouched powder is what many of us live for on the mountains. This league table ranks European resorts based on where our Snomad community finds the best powder stashes and snorkel-worthy days. We've compiled thousands of authentic user reviews to identify the real powder havens - not just the places that claim massive snowfall but rarely deliver. These rankings come straight from powder hounds who've actually ridden these slopes, not marketing teams.
Got your own powder paradise? Share your experiences and help fellow snow-seekers find their perfect powder fix by leaving a review. Also check out our rankings for Off-Piste, Expert Skiers, and Value for Money.
Best Ski Resort for Powder in Europe: Engelberg - Powder Zones Rating
Engelberg is an off-piste paradise according to our user reviews. The resort offers exceptional powder zones, with the standout being the legendary Laub run, widely acknowledged as "the world's best powder run." A Snomad community member highlights the "Big Five" freeride areas: Galtiberg, Steingerg, Sulz, Laub, and Steintäli, all easily accessible from the lifts. One expert skier mentioned that "for the dedicated powder rider, nothing compares to Engelberg" with its abundant, often very light snowfall. Another user who visited pointed out that "although on a map the runs do not look extensive, everything between them is some of the best off-piste skiing" they've experienced in the Alps.
#2 Grimentz-Zinal - Powder Zones Rating
Grimentz-Zinal is a powder seeker's paradise, with users consistently praising its exceptional off-piste terrain. "Some of the best off-piste powder skiing I've had in Europe," writes Chris, an expert skier who enjoys naming favourite areas after Lord of the Rings characters. The accessibility is a major plus - a user who is an advanced snowboarder said the resort offers "endless easily accessible off-piste options." Another expert skier highlighted that "all the off-piste terrain are relatively safe" while still delivering brilliant powder. For those who venture beyond the pistes, the areas around Moiry dam come particularly recommended for unforgettable powder runs.
#3 Lech Zürs am Arlberg - Powder Zones Rating
Lech Zürs is a powder haven according to Snomad users. One expert skier mentioned having "quite a few fantastic powder days" and recommended hiring a guide for the best off-piste experience. Another advanced rider noted the "insane variety in off-piste terrain" which offers "a new world after skiing on the perfect groomers." The area has brilliant powder potential at all levels - one user explained they "skied powder right next to beginner slopes and right next to the steepest run within 30 minutes." With its high altitude ensuring good snow conditions, Lech delivers consistently excellent powder opportunities throughout the resort.
