The winter season in Italy’s Northeast is presenting a stark contrast: ski resorts are experiencing higher visitor numbers than last year, yet natural snowfall is almost entirely absent. This has led to a large-scale reliance on artificial snowmaking to keep slopes open. Across Veneto, Trentino, and Alto Adige, the landscape is characterized by strips of man-made snow amidst still-brown forests and meadows.
A Region Dependent on Artificial Snow
Data from the Fondazione Cima indicates a national snow deficit of nearly 61%. At 2,200 meters elevation in the Dolomites, snow accumulation totals approximately 50 centimeters, a figure described as “a bit scarce” by Marco Grigoletto, president of Anef Veneto, the association representing ski lift companies. The situation has become so dire that an image of an helicopter transporting snow to the Monte Bondone in Trentino to cover bare patches has become a symbol of the extreme measures being taken to combat the effects of climate change.
Across the Dolomiti Superski area, conditions vary. At Civetta, less than half of the ski area is open – 35 kilometers out of 72 – while connections are limited at Tre Cime (80 of 115 kilometers open), in Val di Fiemme (75 of 120 kilometers), and at Alpe Lusia-San Pellegrino, where nearly 40 kilometers of slopes are closed.
Rising Costs and New Strategies
Despite the challenges, resorts are attempting to maintain operations. In Veneto, approximately 90% of slopes are currently open, though many rely entirely on artificial snow up to 2,000 meters. The cost of skiing is also increasing, with the Dolomiti Superski daily lift ticket reaching a record 86 euros in high season. Price increases of 3% to 5% across the Northeast are attributed to the higher energy costs associated with snowmaking.
In Trentino, officials are experimenting with measures to address overtourism. Madonna di Campiglio has implemented a daily limit of 14,000 skiers. Looking ahead, the focus is shifting towards the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. Cortina d’Ampezzo currently has 90 of its 120 kilometers of slopes open, and officials anticipate potential shifts in skier traffic as the town prepares for the Games.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current snow situation in the Italian Northeast?
Natural snowfall is significantly below average, with a national deficit of nearly 61%. Resorts are heavily reliant on artificial snowmaking to maintain operations.
How much does a ski pass cost in the Dolomiti Superski area?
The daily lift ticket has reached a record 86 euros in high season, with increases of 3% to 5% across the region.
What is being done to manage skier numbers?
Madonna di Campiglio in Trentino has implemented a daily limit of 14,000 skiers to address overtourism.
As resorts navigate these challenges, will the region be able to maintain its appeal as a premier ski destination in the face of a changing climate?
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