🎿🍂 Early season skiing: where to ski in October
October is the month when many skiers start eagerly awaiting the snow, and the anticipation of the start of the ski season is almost too much to bear! But in Norway, there's no need to wait: there are amazing resorts that offer top-notch slopes and snow activities in mid-autumn. In this guide, we'll tell you where you can start the skiing season early, what risks to consider, and what advantages await those who decide to start in October.
I'm so excited to tell you more!
📍 The best resorts in Norway for early skiing
1️⃣ Stryn Summer Ski (Stryn Sommerski) — snow all year round
When does it open:
You can catch the first full days of skiing as early as the beginning of October.
Features
● Glacier skiing on slopes at an altitude of about 1,600 metres.
● Consistent snow quality even when temperatures are above freezing at lower elevations.
● A limited number of slopes, but impressive views.
🎯 Tip
The weather on the glacier is very changeable. Check the forecast on Yr.no and plan your trip in advance.
📌 TripAdvisor review:
"Strøna in October is something special. We skied in T-shirts in the sun, and the snow was surprisingly good for this time of year!"
2️⃣ Geilo — a reliable start to the season
When does it open:
The first slopes usually open at the end of October.
Features:
● A modern snowmaking system that guarantees consistent snow cover.
● Excellent conditions for beginners and families with children at the start of the season.
● Accommodation and ski pass prices are 20–30% lower than in winter.
🎯 Tip:
Book online in advance to save even more.
📌 Review from Instagram:
"Geilo is our traditional start to the season in October. Few people, perfect slopes for family skiing and very reasonable prices!"
3️⃣ Hemsedal — the earliest "Norwegian Alps"
When does it open:
Last week of October, sometimes even earlier (if there is enough snow).
Features:
● One of the first resorts to see snow on the slopes.
● Good infrastructure with cafés and après-ski even in the early season.
● The slopes are well maintained, regardless of the weather.
🎯 Tip:
Check the current skiing conditions in advance to avoid disappointment.
📌 Review on Reddit:
"Hemsedal in October is all about peace, freedom and awesome skiing. There aren't many people, and the slopes are well-groomed and high quality."
🌨️ Risks of early skiing: what do you need to know in advance?
An early start to the season is always a gamble. Here are some risks to consider in advance:
● Unpredictable weather: warm temperatures can turn to freezing in a matter of hours.
● Limited choice of slopes: only 2–5 slopes may be available.
● Short daylight hours: it gets dark early in October (around 5 p.m.).
🎯 How to minimise the risks:
● Check the weather conditions regularly on Yr.no.
● Book accommodation and transport with the option to cancel.
● Plan alternative activities (e.g. hiking, spa or excursions).
💰 Advantages of early skiing: why take the risk?
October trips have their own unique advantages:
● Low prices: accommodation and ski passes are 20–40% cheaper than in high season.
● No queues: minimal congestion on lifts and slopes.
● Special atmosphere: a feeling of exclusivity and adventure.
📌 Review on TripAdvisor:
"We took a chance and went to Hemsedal in October and had the best holiday of our skiing lives! Virtually empty slopes and excellent weather made the trip perfect."
🎒 What to bring for early skiing: a useful checklist
The early season requires special equipment:
● Several layers of clothing (thermal underwear, fleece, windbreaker)
● Goggles or sunglasses for low light (yellow or clear lenses)
● Thermos with a hot drink and snacks
● Spare pair of gloves and socks (snow in October is often wet)
● Sunscreen (the sun is strong even in autumn)
📸 Best photo spots in early season
● The Stryun Glacier with a view of the bright autumn sun.
● Panorama of the Geilo slopes in golden autumn colours.
● The top of the Roniheisen chairlift in Hemsedal, with alpine views of snow-capped peaks.
The early start to the season in Norway is an incredible opportunity for those who don't want to wait for winter – get ready for the best snow conditions of the season! Get ready for the most thrilling experience of your life! Enjoy incredible prices and an electrifying atmosphere that will make your heart race. Come and feel the magic of autumn in Norway like never before. If you're up for the adventure, this trip is going to be one of the most memorable experiences of your skiing career!
💬 Share your experience!
Have you already skied in Norway in October? We'd absolutely love to hear all about it – so please, tell us all in the comments! We can't wait to see your photos, reviews, life hacks and useful links!
We can't wait to include the best tips from our readers in future articles about Norway and the early skiing season!
