Montana Snowbowl Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 3, 2026
Montana Snowbowl greets January 3, 2026, with a fresh dusting—1 inch of new snow overnight—bringing the snowpack depth to 60 inches. Montana Snowbowl ski resort is located just outside Missoula, Montana, and offers 39 runs across 950 skiable acres.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Summary
While that's about 62% below average for this time of year, the base remains solid with a Snow Water Equivalent of 20.7, offering good coverage across most of the mountain. Overnight temps stayed moderate at 27.5°F, keeping the snow surface soft and carvable. Conditions this morning are ideal for early turns, especially for intermediate skiers looking to explore off the groomers. Looking ahead, a storm system is flirting with the forecast, with 0.51 inches of precipitation expected in the next 24 hours and a promising 5 inches over the next five days—potentially refreshing the slopes just in time for the weekend.
Despite the promising conditions, skiers should be aware of ongoing lift operation concerns. Recent headlines highlight multiple chairlift malfunctions and evacuations, prompting scrutiny from the Lolo National Forest and calls for updates. While a new triple chairlift is under construction as part of the resort’s 70th season improvements, visitors should anticipate possible delays or temporary closures. Still, for those chasing an authentic Montana ski experience, Snowbowl continues to deliver charm, challenge, and a taste of wild winter adventure.
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 Stuart Mountain.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Stuart Mountain
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 Montana Snowbowl.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Montana Snowbowl
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Montana Snowbowl impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Montana Snowbowl ski resort is located in the Lolo National Forest in the Missoula Valley of Montana. The resort is situated at the base of the Lolo Peak, which is part of the Bitterroot Mountain Range. The Bitterroot Range is known for its rugged peaks and pristine alpine terrain, providing skiers and snowboarders with challenging runs and breathtaking views.
Additionally, the Montana Snowbowl ski resort offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels, with runs ranging from beginner to expert. The resort also features a vertical drop of over 2,600 feet, making it a popular destination for those seeking a thrilling skiing or snowboarding experience.
Overall, the mountain ranges and aspects of the Montana Snowbowl ski resort in Montana provide visitors with a unique and exciting winter sports experience in a stunning alpine setting.
The resort is known for its challenging terrain, with the best trails being the steep and technical East Bowl and the gladed terrain of Grizzly Bowl. An interesting fact is that Snowbowl was originally opened in 1962 by a group of local skiers who used a rope tow powered by an old car engine. For beginner skiers, the easy-going Meadow Trail is a great option. The Last Run Inn is the best apres ski bar, offering a cozy atmosphere to relax and unwind after a day on the slopes.
Montana Snowbowl FAQ
How much snow did Montana Snowbowl receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Montana Snowbowl today?
Weather today, cloudy, with a high near 29. west wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Montana Snowbowl this week?
Montana Snowbowl is expected to receive up to 5.43" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in Montana like right now?
Montana ski areas are seeing varied snow conditions this week, with the heaviest 5-day snowfall forecasts centered in the southwestern and northwestern regions. The Madison Plateau near West Yellowstone is expecting up to 22 inches of snow, while nearby Whiskey Creek and Black Bear are projected to receive 18" and 26" respectively, making West Yellowstone one of the top zones ... Read more
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