Top 10 ski resorts for thrillseekers

It's that time of year again, when stop looking wistfully at beach holidays and start wrapping up and preparing to hit the slopes.

While flying hell-for-leather down a mountain covered in snow may not be for everyone (in which case don't miss our feature on snowy holidays without the skiing) those with a taste for adventure are gearing up to get their ski legs back and the adrenaline flowing.

See also: World's most extraordinary ski chalets

See also: Revealed! The cheapest ski resorts for winter 2016/17

Perhaps you fancy trying your hand at a little heli-skiing this winter? Or maybe you want to experience the world's best backcountry terrain?

If it's breathtaking views and death-defying drops you're looking for then you're in the right place.

Whether you're looking to cruise down the fresh Japanese powder in Niseko or trying your skis out on Switzerland's trickiest terrain, this list is truly for those with nerves of steel.

If you think you're brave enough to take on the most extreme of terrains take a look at the slideshow below for the full list.