Best Outdoor Snow Sports in Ushuaia

Winter in Patagonia means plenty of snow. This region offers some of the best winter sports in South America. The air is crisp and the mountains are white. Visitors can find world-class facilities and wild, uncrowded paths. Whether you are a pro or a beginner, there is something here. Most activities take place just a short drive from the city center. You should book your equipment rentals early.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Cerro Castor
• Best for families: Valle de Tierra Mayor
• Best for scenery: Beagle Channel cruises

1. Name: Cerro Castor
   Type: activity
   Why go: This is the southernmost ski resort in the world. It has excellent snow quality due to the cold climate. You can enjoy many runs with views of the ocean. It offers modern lifts and a great school.
   Best for: Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
   Where: About 26 km from downtown.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: High (lift pass and gear).
   Getting there: Take a shuttle or taxi from the city.
   Tip: Read this Cerro Castor ski resort guide for more info.
2. Name: Valle de Tierra Mayor
   Type: experience
   Why go: Here you can try traditional dog sledding. Husky teams pull you through beautiful snowy forests. It is a peaceful and unique way to see the land. They also offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
   Best for: Animal lovers and families.
   Where: 20 km outside the city.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Moderate to High.
   Getting there: Book a tour that includes transport.
   Tip: Wear waterproof pants as the snow can be deep.

Top Nature Adventures in This Winter Guide

The nature in Tierra del Fuego is truly wild. In winter, the forests are covered in a thick white blanket. Many trails remain open for those with the right boots. The water of the Beagle Channel remains blue and freezing. You can spot local wildlife even in the colder months. Seeing these landscapes in person is a dream come true for many. Be sure to check weather reports daily as they change fast.

1. Name: Beagle Channel
   Type: sight
   Why go: Sailing these waters is a classic experience. You can see sea lions and many types of birds. The snowy mountains look majestic from the water. It is a great way to see the city from a new angle.
   Best for: Sightseeing and photography.
   Where: Tours depart from the tourist pier.
   Time: 3-4 hours.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Walk to the port in the city center.
   Tip: Book one of the Beagle Channel boat tours in advance.
2. Name: Tierra del Fuego National Park
   Type: nature
   Why go: This park shows the raw beauty of Patagonia. You can walk along Ensenada Bay and see Lapataia Bay. The winter light makes the trees look silver. It is the end of the Pan-American Highway.
   Best for: Nature lovers and hikers.
   Where: 12 km west of Ushuaia.
   Time: 4-6 hours.
   Cost: National Park entrance fee.
   Getting there: Public buses or taxis are available.
   Tip: Use this Tierra del Fuego National Park guide for planning.
3. Name: End of the World Train
   Type: experience
   Why go: This steam train follows a historic route. It used to carry prisoners to the forest for wood. Now, it offers a scenic ride through the park. The views of the Pipo River are amazing in winter.
   Best for: History buffs and families.
   Where: The station is near the park entrance.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Shuttles run from the city.
   Tip: Use these End of the World Train tips to pick your seat.
4. Name: Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse
   Type: sight
   Why go: It is called the lighthouse at the end of the world. Standing on a small island, it is iconic for photos. It has protected sailors since 1920. Most boat tours visit this landmark.
   Best for: Icon seekers.
   Where: In the Beagle Channel.
   Time: Part of a boat tour.
   Cost: Included in sailing tours.
   Getting there: By boat from the main pier.
   Tip: The Ushuaia official site has tour operator lists.
5. Name: Martial Glacier
   Type: viewpoint
   Why go: The glacier offers an incredible view of the city. In winter, the chairlift may be closed, but the trail is great. You can see the whole Beagle Channel from here. There is also a cozy tea house at the base.
   Best for: Quick mountain access and views.
   Where: 7 km from the city.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Free (trail access).
   Getting there: Short taxi ride from downtown.
   Tip: Check the Martial Glacier hiking guide for winter safety.

Great Indoor and Cultural Experiences

Sometimes the wind is too strong for outdoor trekking. Luckily, Ushuaia has many indoor spots to explore. The local history is fascinating and quite dark. You can learn about the native Yamana people. You can also hear stories of the famous prison. After learning, you can enjoy the local food. Try the king crab or Patagonia lamb. The city center is easy to walk and very safe.

1. Name: Museo Marítimo y del Presidio
   Type: museum/indoor
   Why go: This museum is inside the old prison building. It tells the story of early explorers and convicts. You can walk through the original cells. It is cold inside, just like the prisoners felt.
   Best for: Rainy or very cold days.
   Where: At the end of Yaganes street.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Moderate (valid for two days).
   Getting there: Walking distance from the center.
   Tip: Visit the Museo Marítimo website for seasonal hours.
2. Name: San Martín Street
   Type: neighborhood/market
   Why go: This is the main road of the city. You will find souvenir shops and high-end gear. There are many cozy cafes and restaurants. It is perfect for a slow afternoon.
   Best for: Foodies and shoppers.
   Where: Downtown Ushuaia.
   Time: 2-4 hours.
   Cost: Free to walk.
   Getting there: It is the heart of the city.
   Tip: Look for the museums in Ushuaia guide to find nearby exhibits.

Wonderful Winter Day Trips Near the City

If you have more time, leave the city. There are many top attractions near Ushuaia to see. Winter travel can be slow due to ice. However, the frozen lakes and quiet woods are worth it. You will see much less traffic than in summer. This makes the silence of Patagonia feel very real. Always travel with a professional guide on icy roads.

1. Name: Laguna Esmeralda
   Type: day trip
   Why go: The lagoon is famous for its green color. In winter, the water often freezes solid. Walking on the ice is a thrill. The trail goes through peat bogs and forests.
   Best for: Adventurous hikers.
   Where: 20 km east of the city.
   Time: 5-6 hours.
   Cost: Tour fee (recommended).
   Getting there: Hire a driver or join a group.
   Tip: Bring crampons for your boots for the icy sections.
2. Name: Estancia Harberton
   Type: day trip
   Why go: This is the oldest ranch in the region. It offers a look at early pioneer life. You can see the bone museum and old gardens. The location on the channel is very peaceful.
   Best for: History and landscape lovers.
   Where: 85 km from Ushuaia.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: High (includes boat/transport).
   Getting there: By car or organized tour.
   Tip: In winter, access may depend on road conditions.