Afton Alps Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 11, 2026
Sunny skies and spring-like temperatures have settled over Afton Alps Ski Area this January 11, with an unseasonably warm overnight low of 34.8°F. Afton Alps Ski Area is located in Minnesota and offers 300 acres of skiable terrain with 50 trails and 18 lifts.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Summary
Despite limited natural snowfall—just 0.16 inches expected over the next 72 hours—snowmaking efforts keep the core terrain skiable. The current snowpack is just 2 inches, significantly below average for this time of year, sitting at only 7% of typical January depth. While coverage is thin on some trails, groomed runs remain open, offering firm morning corduroy that softens by midday. Early birds will find the best conditions before the afternoon sun sets in.
In the news, Afton Alps is buzzing with exciting developments. Trevor Maring has been named the new General Manager, ushering in a new era as Vail Resorts unveils plans for major upgrades and potential expansion. Enthusiasts were thrilled as Olympic champion Lindsey Vonn made a recent appearance, delighting fans at the slopes. With Vail Resorts doubling down on Midwest investments—including a $20M acquisition of neighboring ski areas—the future looks bright for Afton Alps. While Mother Nature plays coy with snow, the resort’s commitment to innovation and community engagement is keeping spirits high this winter season.
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 Hastings Dam 2.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Hastings Dam 2
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 Afton Alps Ski Area.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Afton Alps Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Afton Alps Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The pertinent mountain ranges and mountain aspects of Afton Alps Ski Area in Minnesota include:
1. Afton Alps is located in the St. Croix River Valley, a region characterized by rolling hills and wooded landscapes.
2. The ski resort features a vertical drop of 350 feet with 48 trails spread across 300 acres of skiable terrain.
3. The terrain at Afton Alps includes a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, as well as terrain parks for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.
4. The highest point at Afton Alps is approximately 1,540 feet above sea level, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
5. The ski resort is part of the Midwest's "Big 10" ski areas and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and accessible slopes for all skill levels.
The resort's best trails are the intermediate runs, which make up the majority of the mountain. A little-known historical fact is that Afton Alps was founded in 1963 by Paul Augustine, a ski enthusiast who purchased a farm and created the ski area. For beginner skiers, the resort offers several green runs, including the Rabbit Trail, which is a gentle slope perfect for first-timers. After a day of skiing, head to the Paul's Pub for a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of craft beers.
Night Skiing | Yes |
Lift Count | 21 Lifts |
Base Elevation | 360 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 250 Acres |
Run Count | 48 Trails |
Top Elevation | 466 Meters |
Afton Alps Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Afton Alps Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Afton Alps Ski Area today?
Weather today, mostly cloudy, with a high near 27. west northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon.
What are ski area conditions in Minnesota like right now?
As the season progresses, ski enthusiasts are keeping a keen eye on the snowfall totals to plan their next alpine adventure. In Washington State, the Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge has reported a fresh 2 inches of snow over the past 24 hours, with a base of 170 inches. This bodes well for nearby ski resorts like The Summit at Snoqualmie and ... Read more
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