Queenstown is a must-visit destination on any New Zealand adventure! If you’re visiting during New Zealand’s winter months, hitting the slopes is non-negotiable—and The Remarkables should be at the top of your list.
Located just outside Queenstown on the South Island, The Remarkables is famous for its jaw-dropping alpine views, vibrant atmosphere, live music, and slopes that cater to every skill level. It’s also where I earned my NZSIA Ski Race One certification! If you’re short on time and conditions are similar across Queenstown’s ski areas, this mountain is my #1 recommendation for a single-day ski trip.
Hi, I’m Lorraine, a ski instructor from Hong Kong with over a decade of experience. Here’s a snapshot of my credentials:
- CSIA Level 3 Ski Instructor (Canada)
- CASI Level 2 Snowboard Instructor (Canada)
- NZSIA Level 1 Freestyle Ski Instructor (New Zealand)
- NZSIA Children’s Teaching Certification
- Level 1 Avalanche Rescue Training (Canada)
- Level 5 National Ski Instructor (China)
- Examiner for China’s Public Skiing Technique Certification
- Certified Ski/Snowboard Equipment Technician
My team and I offer lessons in Chinese, English, and Cantonese across resorts in China (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chongli, Northeast, Xinjiang, Chengdu), Hong Kong, Japan (Nagano, Hakuba, Niseko, Furano, and more), Canada, and Europe. Even if we’re not available, we’re happy to connect you with trusted local instructors!
Why The Remarkables?
The summit delivers breathtaking panoramic views, and the resort is renowned for its diverse terrain, modern facilities, and slopes wide enough for everyone—families, beginners, and experts alike. Let’s break down what makes this mountain so special!
Basic Information
- Season: Early June to early October (weather-dependent)
- Elevation: 4,843 feet (base) to 6,375 feet (summit)
- Vertical Drop: 1,535 feet
- Trails: 30% beginner (green), 40% intermediate (blue), 30% advanced (black)
- Lifts: 4 high-speed chairlifts, 2 magic carpets
- Highlights: Spacious slopes, epic terrain parks, two bars, and a massive lodge with dining options.
Best Time to Visit
Aim for July or August for the deepest snow and coldest temps (slopes average 25°F to 14°F). June and September are shoulder season months with softer, slushier snow.
Getting There
The Remarkables is 24 miles (40 minutes) from downtown Queenstown. Here’s how to tackle the trip:
By Car:
- Rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle with snow chains—even 4WDs can slide on icy roads!
- Free parking is available, but lots fill up fast on weekends. Pro tip: Arrive early or use the free shuttle from overflow lots (walking from Lot 5/6 is no fun in ski boots!).
By Shuttle:
- Ski buses run daily from Queenstown and select hotels.
- Cost: ~$12–18 USD one-way (book round-trip for discounts).
- Buses depart every 30 minutes from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM—arrive early to snag a seat!
Lift Tickets
- Single-day pass: ~95USD(adults),95USD(adults),48 USD (kids).
- Multi-day passes: Save more the longer you stay (e.g., 3-day passes offer steep discounts).
- Early Bird discounts: Save by purchasing tickets in advance.
- Superpass: Valid at The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, and Mt Hutt ski areas.
Tips for Different Levels Skier
Beginners: Stick to the gentle slopes near the Base Lodge, where the magic carpet is perfect for practice. The trails to the left of the Alta Chairlift are also beginner-friendly. Avoid the right side—it’s steeper and used for Racing training alot!
Sugar Bowl Chairlift: Head to the far left for easy green runs.
Curvey Basin Chairlift: While labeled beginner, these trails are steeper and narrower. Only attempt them if you’re confident in speed control and turning.
Shadow Basin Chairlift (far right): Head to the back shadow basin, toughest terrains—experts only!
Ski Lessons & Gear Rental
The Remarkables boasts top-tier instructors, like Colin Tanner, my NZSIA Level 3 trainer, who works across Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Many Japanese instructors also teach here during the Southern Hemisphere winter—ask us for recommendations!
On-mountain rentals: Full gear (skis, poles, boots, helmets) is available, along with shops selling gloves, scarves, etc.
Town rentals: Cheaper options in Queenstown, but you’ll need to haul equipment to the mountain.
If you’re a beginner and unsure what gear is right for you, we recommend checking out our Snowboard Size Calculator and Ski Length Calculator!”
Where to Stay
Remarks has no on-mountain lodging? No problem! Most skiers stay in Queenstown. Top picks from my clients:
- Ramada Suites by Wyndham Queenstown Remarkables Park: (Booking.com | Trip.com | Agoda | Klook): Near the airport and ski area, with great restaurants and shops.
- Crowne Plaza Queenstown: (Booking.com | Trip.com | Agoda | Klook): Close to ski bus stops, reliable service.
- Sofitel Queenstown – Hotel & Spa: (Booking.com | Trip.com | Agoda | Klook): Prime downtown location, though rooms feel dated (renovations planned for 2025!).
Dining Options
Let’s be real—the food at Remarkables is fine, but nothing to write about. The real culinary gems? They’re down in Queenstown at the base! My strategy? Grab a quick bite on the mountain to fuel the shredding, then go all out with the epic eats in town after!
On the Mountain
- Base Lodge: Coffee, sandwiches, and hot meals.
- Ice Bar: Slope-side (open-air bar) for mid-ski breaks.
Note: Backpacks aren’t allowed indoors, but hooks are provided outside!
Post-Ski Eats in Queenstown
- Fergburger: Legendary burgers. Don’t miss the cream donuts at neighboring Fergbaker!
- The Meat Preachers (Frankton): Pulled pork burgers, wraps, and sandwiches worth skipping lunch on the slopes for.
- Flame Bar and Grill: Lakeside spot with mouthwatering ribs.
Rest-Day Activities
Queenstown is packed with adventures—you’ll wish you had more time off the slopes!
- Kiwi Park: Meet New Zealand’s iconic kiwi birds and learn about local wildlife.
- Jet Boating: Thrilling rides on the lake (prepare to get wet!).
- Skyline Queenstown: Gondola rides with epic views.
- Queenstown Quad Bike Adventure: Super fun activities with epic view! Guides are friendly, it can get a bit dusty or muddy out there, but don’t worry—they’ve got you covered with boots and outerwear!
Essential Tips
Here are some practical tips for visiting The Remarkables ski area:
- Layering is key: Mountain weather changes fast.
- Ski insurance: Highly recommended for emergencies.
- Photo spots: The Remarkables’ backcountry views are Instagram gold!
- Don’t drink and drive: Never, and I seriously cannot stress this enough, drink and drive. I know the après-ski parties up at The Remarkables are awesome, but if you’ve been drinking, hand those keys to someone sober. Police regularly set up checkpoints at the base of the mountain conducting breathalyzer tests – every single time I’ve been there, I’ve seen multiple vehicles pulled over.
Final Thoughts
With its breathtaking scenery, diverse terrain, and top-notch facilities, The Remarkables is a winter paradise for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.