A fresh layer of winter magic is blanketing Howelsen Hill Ski Area this January 2, 2026, where the snowpack is sitting at a solid 22 inches—over 7 inches deeper than average for this time of year. Howelsen Hill Ski Area is a historic ski resort located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, United States.
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With overnight temps dipping to a brisk, but manageable 24°F, conditions are primed for smooth carving on both groomers and tree runs. The Snow Water Equivalent holds steady at 5.7 inches, ensuring a dense, skiable base ready for action. Skiers and riders can look forward to 4 inches of new snow in the next 24 hours, with up to 13 inches expected by early next week—perfect timing for powder chasers eyeing a midweek escape.
Beyond the slopes, Howelsen Hill is buzzing with excitement as it prepares for its 109th winter season. Big news from the hill includes plans for a new ski run and an extended season—giving locals and visitors even more terrain to explore. While a nearby wildfire briefly raised concerns in Steamboat Springs, Howelsen remains unaffected and fully operational. As night skiing continues to shine here, this historic gem—America’s oldest continuously operating ski area—remains one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets for affordable turns and authentic mountain charm.
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, snow showers, mainly after 1pm. high near 35. west wind around 5 mph. chance of precipitation is 80%. total daytime snow accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible.
Howelsen Hill Ski Area is expected to receive up to 13.13" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
Colorado ski resorts are anticipating a strong round of snowfall this week, with the heaviest accumulations forecasted in the northwestern and southwestern mountains. Steamboat, near Dry Lake and Tower sensors, is expecting up to 13" in the next five days. The Tower sensor, currently showing the deepest snowpack in the state at 44", suggests Steamboat could see excellent powder conditions. ... Read more