On Friday, June 19, Cerro Martial reopened its doors with a completely renewed infrastructure. Located just minutes from downtown Ushuaia, this iconic mountain destination has been transformed into the End of the World Park. This 2026 winter season also marks the return of something the city had missed for the past 12 years: its chairlift, urban skiing, and unforgettable afternoons in the snow just 15 minutes from the harbor.
La aerosilla que Ushuaia esperó más de una década
The Chairlift Ushuaia Waited More Than a Decade For
The new quad chairlift, built with Swiss technology by Bartholet, features more than 1,400 meters (4,600 ft) of lift line, 126 chairs, and a capacity of 1,450 passengers per hour, expandable to 1,600. It is now the most modern ski lift in Tierra del Fuego.
The official inauguration took place on June 19 at 10:00 a.m., led by Governor Gustavo Melella in a public ceremony attended by local residents and visitors. Construction began under the previous provincial administration and was completed by the current government, which highlighted the importance of restoring “a place that belongs to the people of Ushuaia, Tolhuin, and Río Grande.”
The reopening coincides with the start of the 2026 winter season and marks the return of skiing at Cerro Martial itself—something that for many years made it the perfect destination for beginners looking to experience skiing and snowboarding just minutes from downtown Ushuaia.
The chairlift includes two intermediate stations, located at 515 and 550 meters, allowing skiers and visitors to access different areas of the mountain depending on their skill level or the activity they choose. Plans are already underway to install artificial lighting before next winter, making night skiing possible and extending operating hours.
2026 Season Lift Pass Prices
With the reopening, Cerro Martial also announced its 2026 winter season rates:
| Lift Pass | Price (ARS) |
|---|---|
| Adult daily ski pass | $35,000 |
| Child daily ski pass (up to 12 years old) | $17,500 |
| Senior daily ski pass | $5,250 |
| Scenic chairlift ticket (pedestrians) | $17,500 |
| Children under 5 | Free |
| Adult season pass | $450,000 |
| Season pass (under 18) | $420,000 |
The operating company also confirmed that financing options will be available for the purchase of season passes.
Watch the reopening of the new Cerro Martial chairlift!
From Cerro Martial to End of the World Park
The mountain resort has been reimagined as a year-round destination, now operating under the name Cerro Martial – End of the World Park. One of the main changes for visitors is that park admission is now required, whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or simply taking the chairlift to enjoy panoramic views of Ushuaia, the Beagle Channel, and the Fuegian Andes.
The park now offers:
- Ski and snowboard slopes, with its own ski school and certified local instructors.
- Snow activities for the whole family, including the popular snow tubing area.
- Hiking trails and scenic viewpoints open throughout the year.
- Mountain dining, featuring a cozy alpine lodge serving food and drinks with spectacular views.
Torchlight Ski Descent: A Beloved Winter Tradition Returns
One of the highlights of the season is the return of the Torchlight Ski Descent, an annual event held in celebration of Mountain Day in Argentina. This tradition, which dates back more than 30 years, sees dozens of skiers descend the mountain after dark carrying flaming torches, creating one of Ushuaia’s most iconic winter spectacles.
It’s worth noting that this event is different from the Torchlight Descent at Cerro Castor, which is part of the city’s National Winter Festival. During the 2026 winter season, Ushuaia will host two separate torchlight descents, one at each ski resort, expanding the city’s calendar of winter events.
First-Time Ski Experience at Cerro Martial
If you’ve never tried skiing or snowboarding, the reopening of Cerro Martial is the perfect opportunity. At Ushuaia Travel, we’ve created our First-Time Ski Experience at Cerro Martial, specially designed for beginners who want to enjoy their first day on the snow with professional guidance in a safe and relaxed environment.
The experience includes:
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (first departure around 8:30 a.m.).
- A 2-hour ski or snowboard lesson with professional instructors.
- Complete equipment rental, including skis, snowboard, boots, and poles (depending on your chosen activity).
- Chairlift ticket.
- Box lunch (meal, snack, and beverage) served at the mountain lodge.
- Free time after the lesson to continue practicing or enjoy the snow tubing area.
The excursion lasts approximately 7 hours, is suitable for beginners, and is available in English and Spanish.
Participants only need to bring thermal clothing, waterproof outerwear, gloves, a hat, and sunscreen. Snow clothing can also be rented directly at the resort.
Sample Schedule (Morning Departure)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:30 a.m. | Hotel pick-up |
| 9:00 a.m. | Arrival at Cerro Martial |
| 9:30 a.m. | Equipment fitting |
| 10:00 a.m. | Two-hour lesson |
| 12:30 p.m. | Box lunch at the mountain lodge |
| 2:00 p.m. | Snow tubing |
| 4:00 p.m. | Return transfer |
| 4:30 p.m. | Arrival at your hotel |
Why Cerro Martial’s Reopening Is a Game Changer for Ushuaia
Until now, Cerro Castor had been Ushuaia’s primary ski destination. With Cerro Martial back in operation, the city once again offers two active winter resorts, a rare feature even among world-class snow destinations.
Because of its location just minutes from downtown, Cerro Martial is an excellent choice for travelers with limited time, first-time skiers, families, or anyone looking to enjoy a day in the snow without traveling far from the city.
If you’re planning your trip to the End of the World, don’t miss our guides to the 10 Most Instagrammable Spots in Ushuaia and the Best Cafés in Ushuaia for Cold Winter Days—perfect inspiration before and after your mountain adventure.
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