Howelsen Hill Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeNearby: Steamboat Ski Resort
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
Welcome to 2026 at Howelsen Hill Ski Area, where Colorado's oldest operational ski hill is kicking off its 109th winter season with a fresh dose of excitement and powder. Howelsen Hill Ski Area is a historic ski resort located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, United States.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
Overnight temperatures hovered around 24°F, preserving a solid snowpack currently measured at 22 inches—though that’s still about 39% below seasonal average. But don’t let that discourage your powder dreams: Mother Nature is delivering a welcomed refresh, with 2.86 inches of snow forecast in the next 24 hours and a promising 12.19 inches in the coming 72 hours. Snow enthusiasts should prepare for up to 13 inches more over the next five days, setting the stage for an epic start to the New Year.
Thanks to recent investments, Howelsen Hill is debuting a new ski run this season and promising an extended operating calendar, giving skiers and boarders more reasons to make the journey to Steamboat Springs. With night skiing available and the ski area continuing its cherished free skiing tradition, now is a perfect time to revisit this historic gem. While regional snowfall totals remain modest this winter across Colorado, Howelsen is proving that charm, community, and fresh flakes still make for an unforgettable alpine escape.
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 Dry Lake.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured 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.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Howelsen Hill Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Howelsen Hill Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
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 |
Howelsen Hill Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Howelsen Hill Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Howelsen Hill Ski Area today?
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.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Howelsen Hill Ski Area this week?
Howelsen Hill Ski Area is expected to receive up to 13.13" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in Colorado like right now?
Steamboat Springs and the surrounding Routt National Forest are primed for the heaviest snowfall over the next five days, with Dry Lake and Elk River sensors forecasting 13 inches, and nearby Tower projecting 12 inches. These areas feed directly into Steamboat Ski Resort, making it the top pick for powder chasers. Rabbit Ears Pass and Scotch Creek are also expecting ... Read more