It’s a warm and unusual Christmas Eve on the slopes of Red Lodge Mountain, with overnight temps hovering at 42°F—well above seasonal norms. Red Lodge Mountain ski resort in Montana offers 1,600 acres of skiable terrain, 65 runs and an average annual snowfall of 250 inches.
Wind
Humidity
The current snowpack is holding at just 6 inches, a staggering 70% below average for this time of year. With only 0.21 inches of snow forecasted over the next 72 hours, conditions on groomed trails are thin and variable, with limited powder to be found beyond maintained runs. Skiers and riders should expect early spring-like terrain—firm in the mornings, softening by midday—and watch for exposed patches and windblown areas on upper lifts.
Despite the lean snow season so far, Red Lodge Mountain is drawing national attention: recently named among the most underrated resorts in America and one of Montana’s best-kept skiing secrets. However, the mountain is also navigating a somber note—following a fatal chairlift incident earlier this month, safety reviews are ongoing and lift operations have been closely monitored. The Willow Creek chair has since reopened, and the Red Lodge team is working diligently to ensure guest safety and maximize terrain access. For those heading up this holiday, pack for spring conditions, plan for limited off-piste options, and enjoy the mountain’s rugged charm and welcoming vibes.
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 Cole 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 Red Lodge Mountain.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Red Lodge Mountain impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
Red Lodge Mountain is located in the Beartooth Mountains in Montana. The ski resort features a variety of mountain aspects, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain. Some of the pertinent mountain ranges near Red Lodge Mountain include the Beartooth Range, the Absaroka Range, and the Crazy Mountains. The ski resort offers stunning views of these mountain ranges and provides skiers and snowboarders with a unique and challenging mountain experience.
The best trails are the Grizzly Peak, Lazy M, and Cole Creek. An interesting fact about the resort is that it was once a training ground for the famed 10th Mountain Division during World War II. A specific suggestion for beginners would be to stick to the Miami Beach and Silver Run trails. The best après ski bar is the Snag Bar, which offers a wide selection of drinks and live music on weekends.
The ski area received -1" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 44. west southwest wind 10 to 14 mph becoming south southeast in the afternoon.
Nationwide, skiers and snowboarders are eyeing the latest snowfall reports and forecasts as resorts prepare for a fresh dusting. In Washington State, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge has received 2 inches of new snow over the past 24 hours, with a base depth of 170 inches. While not a ski resort, the nearby Crystal Mountain Resort will surely benefit from this snowfall, ... Read more