Terry Peak Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 1, 2026
Terry Peak Ski Area welcomes the New Year with clear skies and warm temperatures, as overnight lows hovered around 43°F — unusually mild for January in the Black Hills. Terry Peak Ski Area in South Dakota is a popular ski resort with a variety of trails for skiers of all levels.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
The mountain is open and operating smoothly, but with a snowpack depth of just 2 inches — a staggering 86% below average — conditions are far from ideal for powder hounds. The Snow Water Equivalent sits at 1.4 inches, reflecting the limited moisture content of the remaining snow. While no significant snow is forecasted in the immediate future, intermittent flurries may offer a light dusting later in the week, providing a glimmer of hope for improved terrain in the coming days.
Despite the dry start, Terry Peak remains a top pick for winter getaways in South Dakota, offering family-friendly slopes and scenic alpine views. However, skiers are urged to use caution: a tragic accident earlier this week involved a 24-year-old man who died after striking a tree on the mountain. Safety patrols have increased, and trail signage has been reinforced to help prevent further incidents. With minimal natural snow, stick to groomed runs, and check daily updates before heading out. While Mother Nature may be holding back, the Terry Peak community remains resilient and welcoming.
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 North Rapid Creek.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured 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 Terry Peak Ski Area.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Terry Peak Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Terry Peak Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Terry Peak Ski Area is located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. The main mountain range in this area is the Black Hills, which is known for its rugged and picturesque terrain. Terry Peak itself is the highest point in the Black Hills, standing at an elevation of 7,064 feet.
The ski resort at Terry Peak offers a variety of runs catering to all skill levels, with the majority of the runs being intermediate to advanced. The resort also features a vertical rise of 1,100 feet, making it one of the largest ski areas in the state.
In addition to the skiing and snowboarding opportunities, Terry Peak offers stunning views of the surrounding Black Hills and the nearby town of Lead. The resort also offers amenities such as ski rentals, lessons, and a lodge with dining options.
The resort's best trails include the Long Shot, Powder Keg, and The Face. One interesting fact about Terry Peak is that it was named after Henry Terry, a prospector who discovered gold in the Black Hills in the late 19th century. For beginners, the resort suggests starting with the Stewart Slope, which is a gentle, easy run. After a day on the slopes, head to the lodge for drinks and snacks or check out the nearby Mystic Miner for a lively apres ski experience.
Terry Peak Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Terry Peak Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Terry Peak Ski Area today?
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.
What are ski area conditions in South-Dakota like right now?
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
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