Nevis Range ski resort

About Nevis Range

Established in the early 1990s, Nevis Range is one of the United Kingdom's newest ski areas. It is also arguably one of its prettiest, with a location in the Western Highlands that affords stunning views over Scotland’s West Coast and islands.

The ski area covers a wide swathe of terrain close to Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis (1,344m/4,409ft), and is accessed by a Doppelmayr gondola located on the upper mountain. The terrain is suitable for all standards with the off-piste Back Corries area over the back of the main ski area a particular draw for advanced skiers and boarders.

Despite its modern facade, the history of skiing at Nevis Range goes back to at least the 1930s when adventurous locals hiked up to ski the area now known as the 'Snowgoose' – named after the patch of snow left on the mountainside in springtime, resembling the shape of a flying goose.

Over the past decade or so, Nevis Range has grown its year-round operation, becoming an international centre for downhill mountain biking (it is an annual World Cup host) and adding attractions like a high ropes course at its base; all of which has helped to diversify the resort’s once limited appeal.

Location:

Nevis Range is located on Aonach Mor Mountain, in the Lochaber region of the western Scottish Highlands. The resort is close to the town of Fort William and Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, in the Grampian mountain range.

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Slopes

On the slopes

Nevis Range has the same snow condition 'issues' that affect the four other Scottish ski areas: unpredictability. Snow can fall between October and June, allowing skiing in mid-Autumn or late spring. But equally, little or no skiing at all in midwinter is also a possibility, so skiers must be prepared to travel at short notice when the snow reports are good.

The ski area is accessed by the fast, modern Doppelmayr gondola with its six-seater cabins. The beginner slopes are conveniently located right next to the top of the gondola and the mountain restaurant, and have their own drag lift. There are lots of longer runs to progress to, including the Summit Run, a very gentle blue with superb views on the way down.

Intermediates will find much of the terrain open to them, with wide, fast cruisers making up the majority of the three dozen trails. Meanwhile, the most advanced skiers and boarders will want to head to the Snowgoose Bowl and Warrens, while a trip 'over the back' into Corrie Dubh is a must.

Nevis Range has a reputation for excellence with its Snowsports School, and freestylers will find a terrain park on which to practice their moves.