Mount Kato Ski Area welcomes skiers and snowboarders this January 2, 2026, with crisp winter air and overnight temperatures dipping to 20°F. Mount Kato Ski Area is a ski resort located in Mankato, Minnesota.
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While the current snowpack depth sits at just 2 inches—nearly 23 inches below seasonal averages—the resort remains open with groomed trails and a hard-packed base. No significant new snow is expected in the next 72 hours, with only 0.18 inches forecasted, so conditions remain best for early morning carving before the sun softens the surface. Snowmaking crews are working around the clock to maintain coverage across the most popular runs.
In local news, Mount Kato is offering a standout deal this season: a full season pass for just $99, an unbeatable value for Midwest ski enthusiasts. However, the community is also in mourning following the tragic passing of a Mankato East High School student in a skiing accident over the weekend. Safety remains a top priority, and skiers are reminded to always follow on-mountain guidelines. As the resort gears up for the heart of winter, guests can expect a mix of solemn reflection and seasonal excitement on the slopes of southern Minnesota.
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 Blue Earth 1s.
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 Mount Kato Ski Area.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Mount Kato Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
The pertinent mountain range for Mount Kato Ski Area in Minnesota is the Coteau des Prairies, which is a relatively flat and rolling region that extends into the state from the Dakotas.
Mount Kato Ski Area itself does not have any significant mountain aspects as it is located in a relatively flat area of southern Minnesota. The highest point at the ski area is only around 835 feet above sea level. Despite this, Mount Kato offers a variety of runs and terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels to enjoy.
The resort boasts over 19 runs with a vertical drop of 240 feet. The best trails for advanced skiers are the Upper Ridge and Lower Ridge runs. Mount Kato also has a rich history, having been opened in 1963 and now run by third-generation owners. For beginners, the resort recommends trying the Bunny Hill and Magic Carpet. The best après-ski bar in the area is the Loose Moose Saloon, located on site, which offers a selection of drinks and live music on weekends.
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, mostly cloudy, with a high near 15. north wind around 5 mph.