How much vertical drop does Åre have?
By Olof Kernell • November 27, 2025
Åre is Sweden’s largest ski resort and attracts both beginners and experienced skiers. One common question is how much vertical drop the resort actually offers. The vertical drop describes the difference between the highest point you can start from and the lowest point where the run ends.
The greater the vertical drop, the longer and more varied the skiing becomes. In Åre, the vertical drop is impressive, which is one of the reasons the destination is considered one of the top resorts in the Nordic region.
The greater the vertical drop, the longer and more varied the skiing becomes. In Åre, the vertical drop is impressive, which is one of the reasons the destination is considered one of the top resorts in the Nordic region.
Facts about Åre’s vertical drop
The official vertical drop in Åre is approximately 890 metres. The starting point is Åreskutan’s summit at 1,420 metres above sea level, and the lowest point in the valley lies at around 530 metres. This difference creates a vertical drop that can compare with many Alpine resorts in Europe.
The result is long runs that give you plenty of time on the snow before you need to take the lift again. For comparison, many other Swedish ski resorts have a significantly lower vertical drop, making Åre a particularly attractive choice for those wanting more varied skiing closer to home.
The experience of skiing the big vertical drop
The large vertical drop allows skiers to experience clear variations in terrain. A descent from the summit can start in open alpine terrain above the treeline and continue through forested sections lower down. This creates the feeling of skiing through several different environments on a single run.
For experienced skiers, the long descent means more opportunities for speed and challenge, while beginners can choose shorter sections further down in the system. Several classic World Cup slopes also take advantage of the significant vertical drop, demonstrating that the area meets international standards.
For experienced skiers, the long descent means more opportunities for speed and challenge, while beginners can choose shorter sections further down in the system. Several classic World Cup slopes also take advantage of the significant vertical drop, demonstrating that the area meets international standards.
Why the vertical drop matters
A large vertical drop is more than just a technical number; it affects the entire ski experience. Longer runs mean fewer interruptions and more time actually skiing. Variation in elevation also creates different snow conditions and more options for skiers at different levels.
In Åre, a family with children skiing on easier slopes at lower altitude can easily combine their day with adults skiing longer runs from higher up. The lift system is designed to bring guests quickly back onto the mountain, ensuring the vertical drop is fully utilised. This is part of what makes Åre a natural choice for both everyday skiing and major competitions.
Read also: How many slopes are there in Åre?
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