Greatest Ski Movies of All Time – The Ultimate List

Are you looking for some thrill-inducing, awe-inspiring movies to get you pumped for winter? Look no further. From cult favorites to award-winning documentaries, here are some of the greatest ski movies of all time. While these movies may be light on plot, they are full of epic terrain, daring stunts, and, at times, comedic relief. So grab your V.I.P. pass and hit the slopes with us as we take you through some of the greatest ski movies of all time!

Ski the Outer Limits – 1968

• Production Company: The Hart Ski Company
• Director: Roger C. Brown, Barry Corbet
• Athletes: Art Furrer, Roger Staub, Hermann Göllner and more

Ski the Outer Limits was skiing film pioneer Roger C. Brown’s first ski movie. Take a trip back to 1968 and ski alongside ski legend Art Furrer as he navigates the ski hills of Squaw Valley, California. With footage shot in color, Ski the Outer Limits was one of the first ski films to feature ski stunts and tricks that would become staples of ski movies for years.

Hot Dog – 1983

• Production Company: MGM
• Director: Peter Markle

Hot Dog is one of the best classic ski movies. It combines a wild cast of characters with endless antics on the slopes. Follow four friends as they navigate the ski season while trying to survive the relentless shenanigans they get themselves into. The movie is full of brilliant performances from various actors — including Patrick Houser and Shannon Tweed — making it one of the best ski films of all time. The movie culminates in a cult classic dangerous downhill ski race, The Chinese Downhill.

The Maltese Flamingo – 1986

• Production Company: Greg Stump Productions
• Director: Greg Stump
• Athletes: Mike Hattrup, Glen Plake

The Maltese Flamingo is a must-see classic ski film that will never die! Enjoy the ski adventure of a lifetime with The Maltese Flamingo! Follow skiers Mike Hattrup and Glen Plake as they ski around the world on skinny skis. Experience wild ski stunts, breathtaking ski locations, and an unforgettable soundtrack—a ski classic you won’t want to miss.

The Good, The Rad & The Gnarly – 1987

• Production Company: Greg Stump Productions
• Director: Greg Stump
• Athletes: Scott Kennett, Robert Aguirre, Scott Rawles, and more

The Good, The Rad & The Gnarly is a classic from the master of ski filmmaking, Greg Stump. Featuring skiing’s most legendary figures, including Scotty Kennett and Bobby Aguirre, it was produced when film production was still in its infancy. Award-winning cinematography combined with a killer soundtrack makes this an absolute classic.

Blizzard of Aahhhs – 1988

• Production Company: Greg Stump Productions
• Director: Greg Stump
• Athletes: Scot Schmidt, Glen Plake, and more

Greg Stump’s 1988 documentary captures the soul of skiing and is considered by many to be one of the most important ski movies ever created. The film features several well-known skiers, including Scot Schmidt and Glen Plake, who were part of a group known as “The Blizzard Brigade.”

License to Thrill – 1989

• Production Company: Black Diamond Productions
• Director: Greg Stump
• Athletes: Glen Plake, Mike Hattrup, and Scot Schmidt

Greg Stump and Bruce Benedict take no limits to film daring skiers in spectacular, humorous, and even breathtaking moments worldwide. From Blackcomb to Jackson Hole and Squaw Valley, this film is set to the powerhouse soundtrack of Trevor Horn’s compositions, such as Nasty Rox Inc., Kissing The Pink, 808 State, and Hoodlum Priest.

Aspen Extreme – 1993

• Production Company: Hollywood Pictures
• Director: Patrick Hasburgh

“Top Gun on the ski slopes” need we say more. Aspen Extreme takes viewers to the ski slopes of Aspen, Colorado, as ski buddies TJ Burke and Dexter Rutecki become ski instructors. With breathtaking ski stunts and a captivating storyline, this classic will bring back memories of thrilling ski adventures! Be inspired by their friendship and courage in pursuing their dreams.

P-Tex, Lies, & Duct Tape – 1993

• Production Company: Greg Stump Productions
• Director: Greg Stump
• Athletes: Glen Plake, Scot Schmidt, Craig Kelly, and more

The spectacular cinematography of Greg Stump, with music from Seal, 808 State, The Beastie Boys, Meshell Ndegeocello, Billy Idol, Dinosaur Jr., and Deee-Lite, will take you on an unforgettable journey to witness extreme skiers and boarders in some of the deepest powder ever. You’ll also peek into a group of eccentric snow bums and Glen Plake’s massive Mohawk!

Walls of Freedom – 1995

• Production Company: Scott Gaffney Productions
• Director: Scott Gaffney
• Athletes: Robb Gaffney, Shane McConkey, Kent Krietler, and more

Released in 1995 is considered by many ski buffs to be the greatest ski movie ever made. Filmed in locations like Canada and Japan, Walls of Freedom features some incredible ski stunts from the world’s most talented skiers and snowboarders. Witness breathtaking backcountry ski shots, ski jumps, and insane tricks like never before seen.

Fistfull of Moguls – 1998

• Production Company: Greg Stump Productions
• Director: Greg Stump
• Athletes: Glen Plake, Jonny Mosely, and more

An ambitious two-year project, this film showcases the iconic Glen Plake and his prophetic prediction that Jonny Moseley would win gold at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics – which remarkably came true! An epic two-year journey follows with uproarious comedy and outstanding cinematography, perfectly complemented by an incredible soundtrack, a grand tribute to mogul skiing.

Ski Movie: Push – 2000

• Production Company: Matchstick Productions
• Director: Steve Winter, Murray Wais, and Scott Gaffney
• Athletes: Seth Morrison, Shane McConkey, Jonny Mosely, and more

Push, the feature film from M.S.P., recipient of Powder Magazine’s illustrious movie of the Year award, is a must-see for anyone interested in pushing skiing boundaries. This exhilarating movie takes viewers around the globe to explore what can be done on skis — an adventure you won’t soon forget!

Out Cold – 2001

• Production Company: Touchstone Pictures
• Director: Brendan Malloy, Emmett Malloy

A ski comedy starring actor Jason London, Out Cold follows the antics of ski resort employees Rick Rambis and Akira Nakamura as they try to save their beloved ski resort from being sold. With hilarious ski stunts and a fun-filled soundtrack, it will leave you laughing out loud! Join in on the wacky ski adventures of Rick and Akira as they try to outsmart the ski resort’s new owners.

Ski Movie 2: High Society – 2001

• Production Company: Matchstick Productions
• Director: Murray Wais
• Athletes: Seth Morrison, Mike Douglas, Wendy Fisher, Shane McConkey, and more

High Society will take ski fans on an incredible journey to exotic ski locations. Join Seth Morrison as they explore diverse ski terrain, from the rugged mountains of British Columbia to the vibrant ski resorts in Colorado. With incredible ski footage and daring feats, High Society will leave viewers with a lasting impression.

Ski Movie 3: The Front Line – 2002

• Production Company: Matchstick Productions
• Director: Scott Gaffney, Murray Wais, Steve Winter
• Athletes: Seth Morrison, Shane McConkey, Tanner Hall, and more

The champions of ski movies have culminated their efforts in The Front Line, the most impressive and progressive film of 2002. From breathtaking vistas across British Columbia, Norway, Alaska & Colorado to awe-inspiring 16mm film footage set to music by N.E.R.D., Swollen Members, and Injected—all while watching Seth Morrison take a Rodeo 7 off an 80-foot cliff – this is one experience you won’t want to miss!

Guatemalan Persuader – 2003

• Production Company:
• Director: Nick Mercon
• Athletes: Tanner Hall

Jackass meets the mountain in this no holds barred ski movie. Follow skiers and snowboarders as they take on some of the most dangerous ski stunts ever seen! This highly polarizing movie mixes insane ski action with wild antics and will leave ski fans in stitches. Be forewarned; this is pretty raunchy.

Higher Ground – 2005

• Production Company: Warren Miller Entertainment
• Director: Warren Miller
• Athletes: Seth Morrison, Glen Plake, Shane McConkey, and more

Higher Ground is an iconic movie directed by the legendary Warren Miller. It features some of the best skiers in the world as they ski down big mountains and shred gnarly lines. Get ready for excellent ski action, stunning locations, and captivating stories.

Steep – 2007

• Production Company: Sony Pictures
• Director: Mark Obenhaus
• Athletes: Doug Coombs, Eric Pehota, Seth Morrison, Glen Plake, and more

“It’s not like riding lifts; it’s real big mountain skiing.” Get ready for a film like no other with Steep. This ski documentary showcases some of the world’s best skiers and snowboarders as they embark on challenging and dangerous ski lines across Wyoming, Switzerland, France, Alaska, British Columbia, and more. Director Mark Obenhaus has created an incredible ski journey filled with breathtaking visuals and thrilling ski stunts. Steep is a ski movie like no other – explore the world of skiing from a never before seen perspective.

Claim – 2008

• Production Company: Matchstick Productions
• Director: Murray Wais, Steve Winter
• Athletes: Mark Abma, Ingrid Backstrom, Simon Dumont, Shane McConkey, Sean Petit

Claim is a ski movie that celebrates the art of ski in all its forms. With jaw-dropping ski stunts, adrenaline-filled ski races, and creative backcountry lines, Claim showcases some of the most thrilling ski action ever seen on film. With incredible cinematography and top athletes such as Mark Abma, Ingrid Backstrom, Simon Dumont, Shane McConkey, and Sean Petit, this movie will leave you wanting more.

The Way I See It – 2010

• Production Company: Matchstick Productions
• Director: Scott Gaffney, Murray Wais, Steve Winter
• Athletes: Sean Petit, Cody Townsend, Mark Abma, and more

Garnering the 2009 Movie of the Year title from Powder Magazine, this captivating feature showcases some of skiing’s most talented athletes and their distinct perspectives on what it takes to be a skier. Join them as they take you worldwide in search of adventure, camaraderie, and fun – with an array of breathtakingly beautiful backdrops ranging from British Columbia to Japan, all featured with deep powder spanning Colorado to Switzerland and more!

G.N.A.R. – 2011

• Production Company: Unofficial Networks
• Director: Robb Gaffney, Scott Gaffney
• Athletes: Shane McConkey, Robb Gaffney, Scott Gaffney

G.N.A.R. is an outrageous move that follows a group of ski bums competing in the world’s most extreme ski competition. This movie will take you on a wild ride full of hilarious ski stunts, outrageous pranks, and epic ski lines that simultaneously leave you laughing and amazed. From ski-jumping off frozen lakes to ski-biking down ski runs, this movie will entertain any ski fan. So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride!

Attack of La Nina – 2011

• Production Company: Matchstick Productions
• Director: Scott Gaffney, Murray Wais, Steve Winter
• Athletes: Mark Abma, Ingrid Backstrom, and more

Matt and Steve Reeder’s 2011 movie Attack of La Nina is thrilling. Featuring some of the world’s best skiers, including Sean Pettit and JP Auclair, this film showcases some of North America’s most challenging terrain with death-defying stunts and breathtaking visuals. This is a must-watch for ski fanatics, from big mountain skiing to backcountry adventures.

All.I.Can- 2011

• Production Company: Sherpa Cinemas
• Director: Eric Crosland, Dave Mossop, J.P. Auclair
• Athletes: Mark Abma, Ingrid Backstrom, J.P. Auclair, and more

Sherpa Cinema’s All I Can is an unparalleled cinematic experience. Embark on an awe-inspiring adventure that juxtaposes the hardships of big mountain skiing with those of global climate change. Watch as some of the best skiers in the world showcase their incredible abilities across six continents, all while gorgeous cinematography gives you a glimpse into wondrous natural landscapes. From Morocco’s majestic desert peaks to Greenland’s icy fjords, Chile’s volcanic craters, and Alaskan spine walls – join this revolution and bear witness to one of best ski films ever made!

Being There – 2011

• Production Company: Field Productions
• Director: Filip Christensen
• Athletes: Jesper Tjäder, Aleksander Aurdal, Thomas Dølplads and more

Join Field Productions for an awe-inspiring journey with their eighth ski movie, Being There. Encompassing some of the most talented freeskiers in modern history and a passionate film crew armed with state-of-the-art H.D. cameras, this installment will leave you breathless! Not only will you be mesmerized by amazing action shots and breathtaking scenery, but you will also get to explore behind the scenes. Witness wonder kid Jesper Tjäder stun the production team with his urban skiing or Tom Wallisch as head of production at Strandafjellet.

Few Words – 2012

• Production Company: Quicksilver
• Director: Matt Pain
• Athletes: Michi Albin, Edgar Grospiron, Raphaelle Monod Sjoström, and more

Candide Thovex’s 2012 film Few Words is a must-watch for any diehard ski fan. The movie follows Candide and his journey around the world. From the beginning of his career to his injury in 2007 and re-invention as a backcountry skier, this film showcases some of the most breathtaking and incredible skiing ever captured on film. Featuring stunning cinematography and amazing feats performed by Candide, this movie will leave you in awe.

Superheroes of Stoke – 2012

• Production Company: Matchstick Productions
• Director: Scott Gaffney, Murray Wais, Steve Winter
• Athletes: Sean Petit, Cody Townsend, Logan Pehota, and more

Superheroes of Stoke will make you feel like a ski god! Follow some of the ski world’s most talented athletes as they ski through exotic locations, tackle challenging lines, and put on a show that only superheroes can.

The Dream Factory – 2012

• Production Company: Teton Gravity Research
• Director: Todd Jones
• Athletes: Dash Longe, Seth Morrison, Sage Cattabriga-Alosa, and more

Follow Sage Cattabriga-Alosa, Seth Morrison, Dash Longe, and the rest of the incredible Teton Gravity Research Team as they explore Alaskan life to find some of Earth’s best snow. Descend steep mountain faces and visit small fishing communities—skiing terrain that most only ever dream about. It’s a journey you won’t want to miss!

Downside Up (T’es pas bien là ?) – 2013

• Production Company: Projektor
• Director: Sèbastien Montaz-Rosset
• Athletes: Vivian Bruchez

Skiers and snowboarders of a new era are attempting to push the limits in gravity-defying terrain, searching for untouched areas where few have ventured. Vivian Bruchez is one such pioneer – joining him as he explores his backyard during a great winter season with friends who share his passion for the unknown wilderness. Undoubtedly influenced by those who came before them, these intrepid explorers sought to create their place in the ski industry.

Days of My Youth – 2013

• Production Company: Redbull Media House
• Director: Scott Gaffney, Murray Wais, Steve Winter
• Athletes: Mark Abma, Ingrid Backstrom, and more

Red Bull Media House’s Days of My Youth is a stunningly beautiful ski film that chronicles the journey of several professional skiers. Featuring mind-blowing backcountry lines and some of the most awe-inspiring riding, this movie will leave you both in amazement and inspired to explore your skiing boundaries.

Into The Mind – 2013

• Production Company: Sherpa Cinemas
• Director: Eric Crosland, Dave Mossop
• Athletes: Callum Pettit, Kye Petersen, J.P. Auclair, and more

Into The Mind explores our world’s mental and physical boundaries by blurring the lines between reality and dreams. Contemplate the human experience and why we ski as you journey through some of the world’s most visually stunning ski locations. Featuring incredible ski footage and a narrative that will leave you captivated. Uncover a world of new and exciting opportunities through the lenses of various mountain sports.

Valhalla – 2013

• Production Company: Patagonia
• Director: Ben Sturgulewski, Nick Waggoner
• Athletes: Cody Barnhill, Casey Ogle, Sierra Quitiquit, and more

Valhalla is an innovative take on ski and snowboard movies, showcasing a narrative-driven story that follows one man’s escape into the Northern woods. With award-winning cinematography to capture some of the most thrilling action in the deepest snows imaginable, Valhalla will captivate viewers with its colorful visuals, vivid characters, and soulful nostalgia. Explore this wild journey towards satisfaction and understanding through love – get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Supervention – 2013

• Production Company: Field Productions
• Director: Filip Christensen, Even Sigstad
• Athletes: Aleksander Aurdal, Anders Backe, Aksel Lund Svindal, and more

Embark on a captivating and unexpected journey with the world’s most skilled skiers and snowboarders in Field Productions’ Supervention! This documentary showcases modern skiing and snowboarding across diverse locations, including Norway, New Zealand, Alaska, and British Columbia.

McConkey – 2013

• Production Company: Redbull Media House
• Director: Rob Bruce, Scott Gaffney, Murray Wais
• Athletes: Shane McConkey, Jonny Mosely, Scot Schmidt, Jeremy Jones, and more

A ski documentary that celebrates the life of ski legend Shane McConkey, tracing his remarkable ski career from his revolutionary ski stunts as one of the best big mountain skiers. Filled with incredible footage and emotional interviews, this film captures the spirit of skiing like never before.

Elevation – 2015

• Production Company: Powderwhore Productions
• Director: Jonah Howell
• Athletes: 

Elevation is a movie from Powderwhore that follows the journey of skiers as they explore beyond ski resorts and harness the backcountry in search of real adventure. Featuring breathtaking visuals and exploration of freedom, Elevation showcases ski stunts that challenge limitations, move through fear, and explore beyond ski boundaries. The movie follows skiers as they ski some of the most challenging runs in ski history and will inspire ski fans everywhere to push their limits. Get ready for an epic ski movie experience!

Dog Days of Winter – 2015

• Production Company: True Grit Productions
• Director: Brian Gilmore
• Athletes: Jonny Moseley, Matt Broze, Charlie McWilliams, and more

Revisit the foundation of freestyle skiing in America with ‘Dog Days Of Winter,’ an exploration into the genesis of organized freestyle skiing during the 1970s. Unearth accounts from several freestyle skiers instrumental to its inception, stories that reflect on triumphant and turbulent moments, and perspectives on what this beloved sport has become today. Revel in a glorious tribute to all things free-spirited and fun!

Streif: One Hell of a Ride – 2015

• Production Company: RedBull
• Director: Gerald Salmina, Tom Dauer
• Athletes: Marcel Hirscher, Erik Guay, Bode Miller and more

For three-quarters of a century, the Hahnenkamm Race in Austria’s Kitzbühel has seen extraordinary victories and heartbreaking defeats. The slopes draw frenzied fans from Austria, Europe, and beyond to witness ski racers competing at their utmost for glory on the iconic Streif course: skiing’s ultimate Superbowl. “S.T.R.E.I.F. – One Hell of a Ride “brings you close to every anticipation-filled moment leading up to this legendary event!

Supervention 2 – 2016

• Production Company: Field Productions
• Director: Jan Petter Aarskog, Filip Christensen and more
• Athletes: Anders Backe, Tiril Sjåstad Christiansen, Fredrik Evensen and more

Experience skiing and snowboarding in a whole new way with Supervention 2! Step into the shoes of some of the world’s most professional skiers and snowboarders as they explore remote places and ski lines never seen before and take on massive jumps. Shot across Norway, New Zealand, Canada, and Alaska, this movie is sure to take viewers on an unforgettable ski journey. With awe-inspiring ski stunts and beautiful visuals, Supervention 2 is a must-see.

Chasing AdVANture – 2017

• Production Company: GoPro
• Director: Matt Cook
• Athletes: Chris Benchetler and more

Chasing AdVANture is an inspiring ski movie that follows Chris Benchetler, a professional skier, as he travels up the west coast of North America in his custom-built van. Along the way, Chris skies surfs and climbs some of the most impressive mountains. With breathtaking visuals and an incredible soundtrack, Chasing AdVANture will thrill ski fans with its over-the-top ski stunts and beautiful locations. Join Chris on this astonishing adventure!

Drop Everything – 2017

• Production Company: Matchstick Productions
• Director:
• Athletes: Mark Abma, Markus Eder, Cody Towonsend and more

DROP EVERYTHING is an inspiring film that will have you dreaming of ski lines and crafting your ski adventures. Ski fans will love seeing their favorite athletes ski powder covered mountains, ski cliffs, and hit jumps, making it all look effortless! With stunning cinematography and editing, DROP EVERYTHING will get viewers pumped to ski.

Hoji – 2018

• Production Company: Matchstick Productions
• Director: Scott Gaffney
• Athletes: Eric Hjorleifson, Chris Rubens, James Heim and more

Hoji showcases some of the most unbelievable ski action ever captured on camera. Follow Eric Hjorleifson as he travels worldwide, from British Columbia to Nepal and Alaska, skiing lines that seem impossible. Hoji is sure to thrill ski fanatics everywhere with creative visuals and intense ski stunts. Witness the ski performance of a lifetime and be inspired by Eric’s daring feats.

Fire On The Mountain – 2019

• Production Company: Teton Gravity Research
• Director: Chris Benchetler
• Athletes: Chris Benchetler, Danny Davis, Jeremy Jones, and more

Fire On The Mountain is a new exhilarating short film from T.G.R. and Flagship Independent, crafted by the astonishing Chris Benchetler. Imagine an epic crew of some of the world’s most talented athletes snowboarding, skiing, surfing, and playing music- all with a soundtrack solely composed of Grateful Dead tunes! Just as The Grateful Dead never conformed to any given genre, so does this group embark on their own spontaneous adventure that you will want to experience.

The Collective – 2019

• Production Company: Redbull
• Director: Etienne Mérel
• Athletes: Taisuke Kusunoki, Kelly Sildaru, Alex Hall and more

Exploring untapped mountain crests, setting out for nocturnal urban handrail raids, and skiing until the sun sets over a distant ridge – Skiing is Collective. Some say it’s an attitude of camaraderie, while others refer to it as a mutual sense of ambition. Our movie showcases this definition through diverse expressions from our team members in THE COLLECTIVE- which proves that together we are more than just individual parts.

Winterland – 2019

• Production Company: Teton Gravity Research
• Director: Steve Jones, Todd Jones, Jon Klaczkiewicz
• Athletes: Griffin Post, Jeremy Jones, Cody Townsend, and more

Winterland is like no other. Follow the T.G.R. crew as they ski diverse mountains and unique terrain from Alaska to Chile. Watch as the athletes ski through some of the most beautiful places in the world, tackling challenging lines and showing off their incredible ski skills.

Stoke the Fire – 2021

• Production Company: Teton Gravity Research
• Director: Todd Jones
• Athletes: Dane Tudor, Kai Jones, KC Deane, and more

Stoke the Fire delves into T.G.R.’s athletes’ development within skiing and uncovers the sheer bliss that originates from this journey. Stoke means different things to different people. For some, leaping into this world is like igniting a spark from within. The flame of curiosity grows, connecting us with nature and our innermost selves and enticing us to greater heights.

Final Thoughts

The ski movie industry has grown significantly since its inception, with new films coming out every year. Elite skiers push their limits yearly to bring fans the best ski action that can be seen. These ski movies will surely get ski fans stoked and ready to hit the slopes! From stunning cinematography, epic ski stunts, and exciting music, the best ski films prove that ski culture and adventure are alive and well.