Perisher Expands Open Terrain To Offer Most In World Right Now
Perisher Expands Open Terrain To Offer Most In World Right Now
Published : 12-Aug-2026 19:50
Australia's Perisher ski resort has battled back from a very challenging low-snowfall season start in June to now offer the most terrain open at any ski area worldwide.
Perisher is the largest ski area in Australia and by some measures the largest in the southern hemisphere, so when all slopes are open usually has the most open in the southern hemisphere, but through June and the first half of July limited snow cover and snowmaking opportunities largely limited it and other Australian ski areas to 50% or less of their terrain open.
The past few weeks though have seen consistent low temperatures for Perisher to fire up its extensive snowmaking system and regular snowfalls topping up its growing base so it has now reached nearly 80% of its terrain open and is nearing a 1m base on its upper runs.
This has taken it past ski areas smaller areas in the Andes that are at 100% open after big snowfalls in some cases but are smaller centres.
The timing of taking top spot for currently open terrain coincides with the launch of Perisher's new Sunrise Sessions at Blue Cow from this Friday 14 August and running to 6 September (weather permitting). This offers skiers early morning access to Blue Cow, as well as a hearty breakfast and front-row seats to spectacular alpine sunrises as an added bonus.
"There's something truly special about being on the mountain before everyone else," said Emily Smith, Senior Manager of Brand and Experience for Vail Resorts. "We're excited to share this unforgettable start to the day with more of guests during one of the best months to be on the mountain."
The experience begins at Blue Cow Bistro with a hot buffet breakfast from 6.30am to 7.30am before participants enjoy exclusive access to Ridge Chair from 7:30am to 8.30am, weather permitting, delivering first runs on the freshly groomed Excelerator trail ahead of the standard 8:30am public opening.
"With guest numbers capped at just 100, Sunrise Sessions provides a rare opportunity to enjoy quiet slopes and golden morning light in one of Australia's most iconic alpine settings," added Ms Smith.
Australian resorts are at the midway point of their 2026 seasons and Perisher is amongst those expected to stay open until early October.
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