A chilly overnight low of 7.9°F set the stage for a crisp winter morning at Howelsen Hill Ski Area on January 11, 2026. Howelsen Hill Ski Area is a historic ski resort located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, United States.
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With a base snowpack of 36 inches—nearly 18% below the seasonal average—conditions remain manageable, though recent dryness across Colorado has skiers craving a fresh coat. Fortunately, a major snow system is tracking toward the region this weekend, offering renewed hope for powder-hungry locals and visitors alike. Until then, trails are groomed and riding well, especially for early birds looking to carve on firm, fast corduroy.
Despite the lighter-than-average snow totals across much of the state this season, Howelsen Hill continues to shine as a historic gem with big plans on the horizon. A new ski run and an extended season are in development, promising enhanced experiences at Colorado’s oldest continuously operating ski area. Night skiing remains a unique draw here, with well-lit slopes offering a magical après sunset session. With possible lift ticket price drops and more accessible terrain coming soon, now is the perfect time to explore this iconic hill before the next storm rolls in and transforms the landscape.
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 Dry Lake.
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 Howelsen Hill Ski Area.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Howelsen Hill Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
The main mountain range near Howelsen Hill Ski Area in Colorado is the Park Range. Howelsen Hill itself is a prominent ski hill located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and is part of the larger Routt National Forest. The ski area features a variety of runs and terrain, including a ski jumping complex and Nordic skiing trails. The mountain aspect of Howelsen Hill Ski Area varies, with slopes facing in multiple directions to provide a variety of skiing experiences for visitors.
It is known for its Olympic-sized ski jumps and offers a range of trails for skiers of all levels. The best trails for advanced skiers are the face of Howelsen Hill and the Rudi's Run, while beginner skiers are recommended to start with the gentle terrain of the Poma Lift. Howelsen Hill is also home to the oldest operating ski area in the United States, making it a unique and interesting destination for ski enthusiasts. After a day on the slopes, The Barley Tap and Tavern is a popular spot for apres ski drinks and live music.
Night Skiing | Yes |
Lift Count | 4 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 2057 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2124 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 150 Acres |
Established | 1914 |
Run Count | 15 Trails |
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 33. east wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Colorado ski conditions are relatively stable with minimal new snowfall reported across the state. The past 24 hours saw modest accumulation at a few sites: Hayden Pass (2"), El Diente Peak (1"), Elk River (1"), and Jones Pass (1"). Cumbres Trestle also picked up 1" and maintains a solid 34" snowpack. The deepest current snowpack is at Tower near Steamboat ... Read more