Welcome 2026 with a sunny start at Mystic Miner Ski Resort at Deer Mountain! Mystic Miner Ski Resort at Deer Mountain in South Dakota offers 44 trails and three terrain parks, with the best runs being Powder Pass and Upper Whitetail.
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Following an unseasonably warm overnight low of 43.3°F, the slopes are holding onto a modest 2 inches of snowpack—about 86% below average for this time of year. With a Snow Water Equivalent of just 1.4", skiable terrain is currently limited, and conditions are best suited for beginner-level runs or scenic chairlift rides. Groomed trails may offer some manageable lines early in the day, but expect soft, patchy snow and possible exposed ground as the day warms.
No fresh snowfall is on the radar today, and with no significant weather systems moving in, snowmaking operations are critical to maintaining trail coverage. While local news outlets remain quiet with no major headlines to report, the vibe on the mountain is still upbeat as visitors ring in the new year with alpine views and crisp mountain air. Check with the resort for updates on lift status and terrain openings, and consider snowshoeing or enjoying the lodge if you’re planning a visit.
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 North Rapid Creek.
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 Mystic Miner Ski Resort At Deer Mountain.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Mystic Miner Ski Resort At Deer Mountain impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
Mystic Miner Ski Resort at Deer Mountain is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The resort is situated on Deer Mountain, which is part of the Black Hills mountain range. Some notable mountain aspects of the resort include:
1. Deer Mountain: The main mountain of the ski resort, Deer Mountain offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The summit of Deer Mountain provides stunning views of the surrounding Black Hills.
2. Terry Peak: Another prominent mountain in the area, Terry Peak is located nearby and offers additional skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The resort is within close proximity to Terry Peak, allowing visitors to easily access both mountains.
3. Black Hills National Forest: Mystic Miner Ski Resort is located within the Black Hills National Forest, providing a picturesque and natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and other recreational activities in addition to skiing and snowboarding.
Overall, Mystic Miner Ski Resort at Deer Mountain offers a unique mountain experience in the Black Hills of South Dakota, with varied terrain, stunning views, and access to the surrounding natural beauty of the area.
Few people know that the resort was originally established in 1938 as a Works Progress Administration project during the Great Depression. For beginner skiers, the resort suggests starting on the Gentle Ben run. The resort's Black Diamond Lodge is a popular spot for après ski, offering drinks, food, and live music. Overall, Mystic Miner Ski Resort at Deer Mountain provides a great skiing experience with fascinating history, beginner-friendly runs, and lively après ski options.
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a temperature rising to near 43 by noon, then falling to around 34 during the remainder of the day. west wind around 6 mph becoming calm in the afternoon. winds could gust as high as 24 mph.
Ski enthusiasts, take note: recent snowfall across the country has brought fresh powder to several beloved slopes, with a mix of weather patterns that could affect your plans in the coming days. In Washington state, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge reported a modest 2 inches of new snow over the last 24 hours, with a substantial 170-inch base, despite the forecast of ... Read more