Sun Valley is kicking off 2026 with solid conditions and anticipation in the air. Sun Valley Ski Resort in Idaho boasts 2,154 acres of skiable terrain, with Bald Mountain serving as the main attraction.
Wind
Humidity
As of January 2, the mountain boasts a snowpack depth of 19 inches—approximately 15% above average for this time of year—supported by a Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) of 5.8. Overnight temperatures held just below freezing at 28.9°F, keeping the base crisp and carvable. Although the past 72 hours brought just over an inch of fresh snow, skiers and riders can look forward to a welcome boost: the 5-day forecast is calling for a promising 16 inches of new snowfall, setting the stage for excellent powder days ahead.
Off the slopes, Sun Valley’s alpine spirit is soaring as the resort continues to ride the wave of World Cup pride following recent events. Visitors can also look forward to a vibrant January calendar, with the much-anticipated return of the annual culinary festival and a local debut of Chris Anthony’s film “Friedl” in nearby Vail. With postcard-worthy holiday charm and fresh snow on the horizon, Sun Valley is the place to be for winter enthusiasts seeking both adventure and après allure.
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 Chocolate Gulch.
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 Sun Valley.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Sun Valley impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
Sun Valley - Dollar Mountain Ski Resort is located in the Sawtooth Mountain Range in Idaho. The resort is specifically situated in the Smoky Mountains, which are part of the greater Sawtooth Range. Dollar Mountain itself is a smaller peak within the range, offering a variety of ski runs and terrain for all skill levels. The surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop for visitors to enjoy while skiing or snowboarding at the resort.
The bowls and glades of Seattle Ridge offer the best advanced skiing, while the Hemingway trail is a must for intermediate skiers. For beginners, Dollar Mountain has gentle slopes perfect for learning. Surprisingly, Sun Valley Resort was the first destination ski resort in the United States, built in 1936. For apres ski, the Duchin Lounge at Sun Valley Lodge offers a cozy atmosphere with live music and cocktails. Overall, Sun Valley is a classic ski destination with a rich history and varied terrain for all levels of ski enthusiasts.
Lift Count | 3 Lifts |
Base Elevation | 1390 Meters |
Run Count | 3 Trails |
Top Elevation | 1560 Meters |
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, snow, mainly after 2pm. high near 39. light and variable wind. chance of precipitation is 80%. total daytime snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.
Sun Valley is expected to receive up to 16.69" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
Sun Valley - Bald Mountain
Sun Valley - Dollar Mountain
Idaho ski conditions are shaping up for an excellent week, with several areas forecasting significant snowfall. The heaviest totals are expected in the northern and central regions. Hidden Lake and Lost Lake in northern Idaho lead the pack with 5-day snowfall forecasts of 23–25", impacting Schweitzer Mountain Resort near Sandpoint, which is expecting 20" and currently has a deep 45" ... Read more