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Early Snow and Snowmaking Push Argentine Ski Resorts Into Partial 2026 Season

Resorts are relying on technical snow, new safety works, targeted promotions to secure openings as the World Cup reshuffles demand.

Overview

  • Cerro Catedral reactivated its 40-cannon snowmaking system, recorded about 40 cm in upper sectors this week, and expanded pedestrian hours to Monday through Saturday to prepare for wider operations.
  • La Hoya in Esquel has more than 15 cm at the base, opened advance online pass sales, and installed its first polvorín to support preventive avalanche-control work.
  • Several resorts set staggered opening plans: Cerro Bayo has already opened, Caviahue is scheduled for June 27, Batea Mahuida for July 1, and places such as Las Leñas and Chapelco remain contingent on further snow.
  • Operators are rolling out promotions and flexible pricing to capture bookings in a fragmented market, including a World Cup–linked offer that could grant free 2027 skiing to early pass buyers if Argentina wins.
  • Technical snow production, night grooming and safety investments are being used to guarantee connectivity and predictability on key runs, a move that can secure early visits and local jobs even as overall demand shifts because of the World Cup and school holiday timing.