Skiing in July or August in Italy is not only possible but increasingly sought after: the ability to ski on high-altitude glaciers during the summer months appeals to competitive racers in training, dedicated recreational skiers and curious travellers who want a unique high-altitude experience.
The Italian Summer Ski Venues
Passo Stelvio: The Classic
The Stelvio Pass (2,758 m) is Italy’s most famous summer ski destination. The glacier above the pass reaches 3,450 m and typically maintains good skiing conditions from June through to late September or early October.
Key information:
- Altitude range: 2,758-3,450 m
- Open: approximately June to October (depending on snow conditions)
- Lifts: 6 chairlifts and drag lifts on the glacier
- Runs: 40 km during the summer season
- Day pass price: approximately 38-42 euros (summer)
- Typical snow depth (July): 100-200 cm
The Stelvio glacier is used extensively by national ski teams for summer training. In July and August you may find yourself sharing the mountain with World Cup racers from a dozen countries, which adds a fascinating dimension to the experience.
Practical tip: the approach via the famous Stelvio road (the most winding paved road in Europe, 48 hairpin bends) is an attraction in itself. In summer, cyclists and motorcyclists share the road with ski buses.
Cervinia: Glacier Skiing Year-Round
Cervinia is the only Italian resort that truly offers year-round skiing. The connection with Zermatt and the Klein Matterhorn glacier (3,883 m) means snow is available even in August when conditions on other Italian glaciers are marginal.
Key information:
- Open: all year, with reduced operations in May-June
- Summer altitude: up to 3,480 m at Plateau Rosa
- Best summer months: June and September (July-August can be warm at lower altitudes)
- Day pass (summer): approximately 40-50 euros (or full Matterhorn pass)
- Combined skiing: possible to cross into Zermatt in summer on the full pass
Val Senales (Schnalstaler Gletscher): The Training Venue
The Senales Valley glacier in South Tyrol is less well known to recreational skiers but is one of the most important training venues in Europe. Multiple World Cup ski teams use the Schnalstaler Gletscher for pre-season preparation.
Key information:
- Altitude: 3,212 m at the summit
- Open: October to June (closing in July-August)
- Primary market: competitive skiing and training
- Also open to recreational skiers during training periods
Passo Presena: The Hidden Gem
Passo Presena (3,069 m) in Trentino, above Passo Tonale, is the least known of Italy’s summer ski venues but one of the most scenic. The glacier offers relaxed recreational skiing in a spectacular cirque of peaks.
Key information:
- Open: approximately late June to late September
- Day pass: approximately 30-35 euros
- Nearest base: Passo Tonale village
- Atmosphere: quiet and uncrowded compared with Stelvio
Practical Advice for Summer Skiing
Timing the Day
Unlike winter, summer glacier skiing is best done in the morning. The sun softens the snow quickly; by early afternoon, conditions can become slushy and lifts may close. Aim to be on the mountain by 8:30-9:00am and plan to finish by 12:30-1:00pm.
Equipment
Your winter ski equipment works perfectly well for summer glacier skiing. However, the intense UV radiation at altitude is a different consideration: high-factor sunscreen (SPF 50+) is essential on exposed skin, including lips and under the chin (reflected radiation). Glacier glasses with full UV protection are mandatory.
Clothing
Start in layers: it may be 8-10 degrees at the base gondola station but -5 to -8 at 3,000 m with wind chill. A light wind jacket over a technical base layer is the typical summer glacier ensemble. Gloves for the morning when snow is frozen.
Altitude
For visitors not acclimatised to altitude, the rapid ascent to 3,000+ m can cause mild altitude sickness: headache, slight nausea, fatigue. Drink plenty of water, move slowly initially and descend if symptoms become pronounced.
The Climate Question
Italy’s glaciers are retreating rapidly: the Stelvio glacier has lost approximately 30% of its volume since 1990. Summer skiing seasons are becoming shorter as the snowline rises earlier in the season. The 2025-2026 summer ski season will likely be shorter than a decade ago, and within 20-30 years, summer skiing at the lower venues may no longer be viable. This is both an environmental reality and an additional reason to experience glacier skiing while it is still available.
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