Fifty Places to Ski and Snowboard Before You Die: Downhill Experts Share the World's Greatest Destinations

by Chris Santella, Matt Hansen (Foreword)

“Quirky nuggets, insider tips, and historical perspectives.” —Reuters
“Whether you’re an expert looking to hit the double diamond moguls or a beginner who wants a gentle slope just in case stopping is an issue, these spots have a little something for everyone.” —The Daily Beast

Pack up your skis or snowboard, fly out, and strap on, because you’re about to take a trip to the most amazing slopes the world has ever seen!

Based on interviews with leading experts, Fifty Places to Ski and Snowboard Before You Die chronicles the rich history of these sports and the people who have mastered them, including Tommy Moe, Jonny Moseley, Billy Kidd, and Greg Harms. With words and color photography, it takes you to all the fabulous mountains you’ve visited—and those you have always wanted to visit.

Fly up to the mountains and explore the world’s most inspiring skiing and snowboarding Above all, author Chris Santella provides readers with the gorgeous scenery, the glamorous ambiance, and the always-thrilling experience of visiting mountains from the Alps to the Rockies, whether it’s après-ski in Cortina or helicopter rides into virgin Alaskan powder.

If you’re jetting off on your next getaway or just armchair-traveling this season, Santella’s guide will inspire beginners and black-diamond experts alike.
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Genres: Travel, Outdoors, Nonfiction

224 pages, Hardcover

First published October 15, 2013

Reviews

[Jared Pangier · Rating 5 out of 5]

A student of mine lent me his precious gift from his parents, and for that, I am forever grateful. When I chose to move back to Japan, I specifically pinpointed Hokkaido with a desire to improve my ability to snowboard. I spent two seasons in Niseko (one on the list of 50) and now live in Sapporo, regularly shredding the Rupow (Rusutsu — the other Japanese resort on the list). Despite being incredibly blessed to live where I do—in the land of Japow—reading this book was a joy, opening my eyes to so many other kinds of possibilities.

Four areas that captured my attention—places I'd like to go before I die—are...
Alaska
Russia
France
Switzerland

If I had to choose one in America, it would be Jackson Hole. I have a good friend who lives two hour's drive from there, so perhaps that might be the place to start:)

[Aidan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fifty Places to Ski and Snowboard Before You Die by Chris Santella is a great and detailed book about the best places to ski in the world. This book made me very interested in going to these places. But this book is not only a guide, it is also a book where professionals share their stories about the magical ski areas. Some grew up there. Some discovered the place because of a friend, and some didn't think they would love it. But they all have one thing in common. They all like the snow and the jumps and the views and everything else magical about the mountains. That is what makes this book so special. Everyone is so different but like the same thing because of the same thing. The good times, the memories, and most importantly. The pow.

[Abby Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gave great insight on ski/snowboard mountains all over the world. It inspired my to want to travel more for skiing and also helped me add to my ski/board bucket list. My only complaint is that there isn't pictures for every location, but there is for most.

[Marta-Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

It works as a quick introduction to some of the best places to ski, but I would have enjoyed maps showing the locations.