Vail Ski Report
4.4/5 (5 Ratings)Nearby: Beaver Creek Resort
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Vail kicks off 2026 with a fresh layer of powder and classic Colorado charm. Vail Ski Resort is located in Colorado, United States, and is one of the largest ski resorts in North America.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Humidity
Summary
Overnight temperatures hovered at a balmy 32°F, preserving a 12" snowpack that sits nearly 15% above average for this time of year. Skiers can expect 4" of new snow today, with another 4 inches projected over the next five days—perfect timing as the resort settles into peak season. The 3.2" snow water equivalent ensures that the snow is dense and carvable, ideal for both groomers and powder stashes alike. With a Winter Weather Advisory in effect, conditions are poised to improve even further; visibility may vary, so plan accordingly.
Off the slopes, Vail buzzes with activity. Local headlines this week celebrate the town’s evolving role in climate innovation, with redevelopment plans in West Lionshead aiming to make the resort a sustainability leader. Meanwhile, culture and cinema are thriving: Chris Anthony’s new film "Friedl" is generating local buzz ahead of its February premiere. As 2026 begins, Vail is not only delivering top-tier skiing but leading conversations in environmental responsibility and alpine arts. Whether you’re here for first tracks or fireside après, now is the time to experience all that Vail has to offer.
Snowstake Cam
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 Vail Mountain.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Vail Mountain
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 Vail.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Vail
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Vail impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Vail Ski Resort in Colorado is located in the Rocky Mountains and specifically in the White River National Forest. The resort is surrounded by several mountain ranges, including the Gore Range, Sawatch Range, and the Holy Cross Wilderness. Some of the prominent peaks in the area include Vail Mountain, Beaver Creek Mountain, and the Gore Range peaks such as Mount Powell and Mount of the Holy Cross.
Vail Ski Resort offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders, with over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, including groomed runs, moguls, glades, and backcountry areas. The mountain aspects at Vail include wide-open bowls, steep chutes, and tree-lined slopes, providing a diverse range of skiing and snowboarding experiences for all levels of ability.
It offers over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain with 195 trails, including some of the best blue and black diamond runs in the country. The resort also has a rich history, as it was founded by Pete Seibert, who served in the 10th Mountain Division during World War II and was inspired by the ski resorts in Europe. For beginners, a popular suggestion is to try out the Lionshead area, which has gentle slopes and a great ski school program. For après ski, the Garfinkel's bar is a popular choice, known for its lively atmosphere and affordable drinks.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 32 Lifts |
Base Elevation | 2475 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 5289 Acres |
Established | 1962 |
Run Count | 193 Trails |
Top Elevation | 3527 Meters |
Vail FAQ
How much snow did Vail receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Vail today?
Weather today, snow showers, mainly after 1pm. high near 33. south southwest wind around 5 mph becoming west in the afternoon. chance of precipitation is 80%. total daytime snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Vail this week?
Vail is expected to receive up to 2.13" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in Colorado like right now?
Colorado ski resorts are anticipating a strong round of snowfall this week, with the heaviest accumulations forecasted in the northwestern and southwestern mountains. Steamboat, near Dry Lake and Tower sensors, is expecting up to 13" in the next five days. The Tower sensor, currently showing the deepest snowpack in the state at 44", suggests Steamboat could see excellent powder conditions. ... Read more
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