After a relentless battle against unseasonably warm weather and limited natural snowfall, Perisher Ski Resort’s lifts spun for the final time this season on Friday 25 September.

The close marked the end of an extraordinary, hard-fought campaign that saw the resort outlast every other major ski field in the country.

In a statement released to guests, resort management confirmed that recent frigid temperatures and a dusting of fresh snow allowed snowmaking teams to fire up the guns for a final 16-hour blitz.

However, with a warm front forecast to move in, the decision was made to close operations at the end of last week.

“We’ve been doing everything we can to keep lifts spinning as long as possible,” the resort said.

“But unfortunately, it’s now time for our lifts to stop spinning.”

Vice president and general manager of Perisher Ski Resort, Nathan Butterworth, said the 2026 winter season at Perisher showcased the resilience, commitment and passion of its people.

“From day one, our teams worked incredibly hard to make the most of the conditions and deliver safe, enjoyable, and memorable experiences for our guests,” Mr Butterworth said.

“Despite challenging weather and limited natural snowfall, we made snow at every opportunity and maximised every snowflake to keep as much terrain open as possible.

“Our snowmaking and grooming teams, supported by ongoing investment in infrastructure and technology, were central to maintaining safe and enjoyable conditions throughout the season.”

The official final weekend of operations took place on 19 September, where the resort pulled out all the stops to bring the season home in style.

Highlights included the inaugural splash and dash tube slide challenge, a celebratory nod to the season’s unpredictable conditions.

Guests enjoyed final laps through the week, with Front Valley, the Quad Express and Leichhardt chairlifts remaining open for those desperate to squeeze in one last run. Terrain park features were also kept in place as long as conditions permitted, and both adult and children’s lessons operated through to the final day.

Mr Butterworth said they worked hard to control the controllable, adapting quickly to changing weather and leveraging its automated snowmaking system to extend the season longer than any other major Australian resort.

“Our decision to stay open was also based on providing Queensland schools, that have a long connection and commitment to Perisher, the chance to visit and their smiling faces on the slopes has made it all worth it,” Mr Butterworth said.

“The season featured exciting new events, including the inaugural Christmas in July festival and Sunrise Sessions at Blue Cow, which became guest favourites. Special appearances from Winter Olympians delighted guests and junior athletes. The launch of the Sugar & Snow lolly shop at Mid-Station was a hit with families.

“Community events like retro day and the splash and dash tube slide challenge raised funds for local causes, highlighting the spirit and engagement of our alpine community.”

While the 2026 season was shorter than hoped, Perisher remains confident in its long-term strategy.

“We remain committed to delivering a high-quality guest experience and believe our ongoing investment in infrastructure and snowmaking capabilities will ensure Perisher remains a compelling destination,” Mr Butterworth said.

“There are few places in the world where you can leave the coast in the morning and be skiing through snow gums by lunchtime. It’s a uniquely Australian experience, and one that’s worth cherishing, supporting, and protecting for future generations.”

Resort management thanked guests for their unwavering support through a tough winter and confirmed they are already looking ahead.

“We look forward to seeing you all for the 2027 season.”