Nestled in the heart of the Chilean Andes, beneath the towering, active stratovolcano Nevados de Chillán, lies one of the most awe-inspiring winter destinations in South America: Nevados de Chillán Ski Resort. With an impressive average annual snowfall of over 9 meters (30 feet), this snow-covered haven has earned a prime spot among freeride and powder skiing enthusiasts worldwide.
Formerly known as Termas de Chillán, the resort offers far more than ski runs. Here, visitors can enjoy natural hot springs, skiing through native forests, epic 13-kilometer descents, and access to volcanoes, hidden thermal rivers, and one of the most complete backcountry ski experiences in the Southern Hemisphere. As PowderQuest guide Phil Gautier puts it, “There are truly a million faces to this resort if you know where to look.”
From Termas de Chillán to Nevados de Chillán: A Strategic Rebrand
In 2008, following the arrival of new concessionaire Consorcio Chillán, the resort was renamed Nevados de Chillán. The original name, Termas de Chillán, was a registered trademark associated not only with tourism but also with products such as bottled water, clothing, and thermal mud.
The new name pays tribute to the area’s dramatic volcanic surroundings, particularly the Nevados de Chillán volcanic group. Far from diminishing the resort’s reputation, the rebrand enhanced its identity and connection to its unique geology.
Where to Stay at Nevados de Chillán
The resort and surrounding areas offer a wide range of accommodations to suit every style and budget.
1. Ski-in/Ski-out Hotels
For ultimate comfort and immediate slope access, Hotel Nevados and Hotel Alto Nevados are top choices. Located right on the mountain, they provide a combined total of 169 rooms, restaurants, bars, and thermal pool access.
- Hotel Nevados: Perfect for those seeking a tranquil forested setting with hot springs just steps away.
- Hotel Alto Nevados: Modern rooms, a livelier vibe, and a higher-altitude location make it perfect for seamless ski days.
2. Valle de Las Trancas
For a more local, laid-back feel, Valle de Las Trancas offers cozy wooden cabins, boutique lodges, and apartments. The area features more dining options, a bit of nightlife, and an authentic mountain community atmosphere.
The downside? A daily 20-minute commute to the ski resort—which can double in stormy weather.
Vacation Packages and Inclusions
The resort hotels offer two main packages:
- Plan Nevados: Includes accommodation, breakfast and dinner, access to hot springs, entertainment centers, and WiFi. Ski passes are sold separately at a discounted rate.
- Plan Full: Includes everything in the Plan Nevados, plus buffet lunch and ski passes for the entire stay.
Bonus: Booking with PowderQuest includes round-trip ground transport from Concepción Airport to the resort.
When Is the Best Time to Ski in Nevados de Chillán?
- June: Early snow may arrive from autumn storms, but base levels are still shallow. Best for last-minute travelers.
- July: Mid-July sees school holidays in Chile—expect crowds and high prices. Late July is the sweet spot as the season kicks into full gear.
- August: A favorite among international skiers. Deep bases, fresh snow, and the peak of the backcountry season.
- September–October: Longer days with a blend of winter storms and spring sunshine. Perfect for ski touring and technical routes. Avoid September 18–19 (Chilean national holidays) due to heavy visitor traffic.
Backcountry Skiing and Splitboarding: Chillán’s Crown Jewel
Beyond groomed trails, Chillán offers massive terrain for backcountry skiing and splitboarding, including volcano ascents and 2,000-meter descents. Areas like Shangri-La, Los Nevados, and Pirrigallo’s couloirs are dream destinations for advanced skiers seeking adventure.
August and September offer ideal conditions: longer days, clear skies after storms, and pristine snow on south-facing slopes.
PowderQuest also offers 8-day guided backcountry adventures exploring every hidden line the Andes have to offer.
Snow Conditions and Weather
Thanks to its strategic location and elevation (3,180 meters above sea level), Nevados de Chillán experiences intense snowfall driven by Pacific low-pressure systems—capable of dumping massive amounts of snow in just a few days.
To stay updated:
- Check live webcams
- Follow detailed forecasts on Windy.com
- Use local weather apps
Terrain Overview
- Advanced/Expert: While not as steep as Portillo, the resort is a playground of off-piste terrain through forests, valleys, and volcanic slopes. Ideal for those seeking untracked powder and cat-skiing opportunities.
- Intermediate: The legendary 13-km Tres Marías run offers a scenic, varied descent. Plenty of side powder stashes near marked trails—though caution is needed to avoid dead-end gullies.
- Freestyle: The snowpark is small and minimally maintained, but the natural mountain features endless jumps, drops, and creative lines.
- Beginners & Non-skiers: A functioning ski school (though sometimes crowded), plus snowmobiles, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and snowcat excursions to volcanic craters.
How to Get There
The most direct route is to fly into Santiago, then catch a domestic flight or ground transfer to Concepción. From there, private transport to the resort is available (included in PowderQuest packages). Alternatively, buses and trains run from Santiago to Chillán City, followed by local transfers to Las Trancas or the resort.
Final Thoughts
Nevados de Chillán is more than a ski resort—it’s a full-on experience of nature, adventure, culture, and relaxation. With its volcanic landscapes, ancient forests, thermal waters, and limitless freeride potential, it stands as one of South America’s premier winter destinations.
Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry skier, a powder lover, or just someone looking to soak in hot springs in the clean mountain air, Chillán has something for everyone. As long-time visitors say:
“There’s always a new line waiting to be discovered.”
