Buena Vista Ski Area Ski Report

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Last Updated: January 1, 2026

A crisp New Year’s Day greets skiers at Buena Vista Ski Area with overnight temperatures holding steady at 25°F—mild by northern Minnesota standards. Buena Vista Ski Area is a small ski resort in Bemidji, Minnesota, with a focus on family-friendly skiing.



Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast

Hourly Snowfall


1"

Past 24 Hours

6.0"

Snowpack

°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity


Summary

The current snowpack rests at 6 inches, which is notably 27% below average for this time of year. While base depth is modest, conditions remain skiable on groomed runs thanks to overnight maintenance and light snowmaking. Skiers can anticipate a fresh dusting today, with 0.56 inches of snow forecasted in the next 24 hours and over an inch expected in the coming 72 hours, offering a promising start to the week.

Despite recent headlines surrounding the ski area's ownership, Buena Vista presses forward in its 75th anniversary season with a full slate of winter fun. The resort continues to draw families and newcomers with special programming for National Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month and the thrill of Minnesota’s longest tubing hill. Off the slopes, excitement builds for the 40th Annual Finlandia Ski Marathon just days away. While the news off the mountain may stir attention, the spirit of the slopes remains vibrant as the community rallies around a landmark season at one of Minnesota’s most storied ski destinations.

Snowpack Percent Normal

54%

Max Recorded Snowpack

31"

Snowfall Past 24 Hours

1"

Snowfall Past 48 Hours

1"

Snowfall Past 72 Hours

2"

Snowfall Next 24 Hours

1"

Snowfall Next 72 Hours

1"

Snowfall Next 5 Days

1"

Terrain Surface

NA

Powder Score

NA
       

Weather Forecast

Seasonal Comparison

Year over year snow water equivalent


Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Bemidji 7.8 Ene, Mn.

Regional Snowpack Depth

Snow levels measured from Bemidji 7.8 Ene, Mn


Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Buena Vista Ski Area.

Historical Air Temperature

Temperature fluctuations at Buena Vista Ski Area


Recent air temperature fluctuations at Buena Vista Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.

About the Area


The Buena Vista Ski Area in Minnesota is located in the Buena Vista Mountain Range. The resort offers a variety of slopes with various aspects, including north-facing, south-facing, east-facing, and west-facing slopes. These different aspects can affect the amount and quality of snow on the slopes, as well as the direction of the sunlight and wind exposure.

The best trails at the resort include the beginner-friendly Bunny Hill and the challenging Gold Rush. An interesting fact about the resort is that it was founded in 1964 by a group of local skiers who wanted a place to ski in the Bemidji area. For beginner skiers, the resort offers a Ski and Snowboard School with experienced instructors. The best apres ski bar in the area is The Tavern on South Shore Drive, which offers a cozy atmosphere and great food and drinks.

Buena Vista Ski Area FAQ


How much snow did Buena Vista Ski Area receive over the past day?

The ski area received 1" of new snowfall since yesterday.


What's the weather like at Buena Vista Ski Area today?

Weather today, snow likely, mainly before 9am. mostly cloudy, with a high near 6. calm wind becoming west around 6 mph in the afternoon. chance of precipitation is 70%. new snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.


How much new snowfall is forecasted for Buena Vista Ski Area this week?

Buena Vista Ski Area is expected to receive up to 1.47" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.


What are ski area conditions in Minnesota like right now?

Ski enthusiasts, take note: recent snowfall across the country has brought fresh powder to several beloved slopes, with a mix of weather patterns that could affect your plans in the coming days. In Washington state, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge reported a modest 2 inches of new snow over the last 24 hours, with a substantial 170-inch base, despite the forecast of ... Read more