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ESFMSO WESTERN MONTANA AND NORTH-CENTRAL IDAHO A prolonged Atmospheric River is expected to impact Western Montana and North-Central Idaho from Monday through Wednesday, bringing moderate to heavy precipitation. Snow levels are anticipated to start around 7,000 feet on Monday before falling to valley floors behind a cold front early Wednesday. The most likely rainfall scenario forecasts 1 to 2 inches for the valleys of Lincoln, Mineral, Sanders in western Montana and Clearwater, and Idaho counties in Idaho. 2 to 3 inches expected in the mountains of northwest Montana and north-central Idaho. Areas further south and east in western Montana will likely see 1 inch or less. A high-end scenario could bring totals 1 to 2 inches higher than the estimates given above. Due to already saturated ground, particularly in northwest Montana, this rainfall increases the risk of rock and landslides, stream and river rises, and minor flooding. Continue to monitor the latest forecast updates as this system approaches.
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 13, 2025
It’s opening weekend at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, and excitement is in the air despite an unseasonably warm start to the season. Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is a cozy resort in Montana, offering 1000 acres of skiable terrain for all levels.
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Hourly Accumulation
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Summary
With overnight temps hovering at 37°F and a meager 6-inch snowpack—over 50% below average—early season conditions are thin but rideable on select groomed runs. The base is holding steady, thanks to overnight freezing, but off-piste terrain remains closed as the mountain awaits a much-needed refresh. Skiers and riders can expect mostly machine-groomed conditions, with patchy coverage on lower elevations. Still, the lifts are spinning, and with new ownership and improvements rolled out by Mission Ridge, morale is high as Blacktail steps into a new era.
Looking ahead, there's reason for cautious optimism. While the 72-hour forecast only teases 0.11" of snow, a more promising storm system looms with up to 6 inches expected in the next five days. With high-elevation storms blanketing parts of Montana, locals are hopeful this will kick off a more consistent snow cycle. Meanwhile, the mountain is bustling with activity—beer and bingo nights, Griz watch parties, and a palpable sense of community pride. Be sure to layer appropriately and check the latest conditions before heading up—Blacktail is open, and winter is just getting started.
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 Blacktail Mtn.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Blacktail Mtn
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 Blacktail Mountain Ski Area.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is located in the Flathead National Forest in northwestern Montana. The ski resort is situated in the Salish Mountains, a subrange of the Rocky Mountains. The highest point at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is 6,780 feet, offering skiers and snowboarders breathtaking views of Flathead Lake and the surrounding mountains. The ski area has a vertical drop of 1,440 feet and offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels, including groomed runs, glades, and steep chutes.
The resort's best trails are the groomed runs, namely the aptly named Easy Street and the more difficult trails on the North Face. Few people know that the area was once a cattle ranch and logging operation. Beginner skiers should check out the Magic Carpet area, which offers a gentle slope for learning. The best après ski bar at Blacktail Mountain is the Base Lodge, offering draft beers, hot toddies, and a cozy atmosphere.
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Blacktail Mountain Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area today?
Weather today, a slight chance of rain and snow before 8am. patchy fog before 10am. snow level 6100 feet. otherwise, cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 38. southwest wind around 6 mph. chance of precipitation is 20%.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Blacktail Mountain Ski Area this week?
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is expected to receive up to 6.26" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in Montana like right now?
Montana ski resorts are seeing a boost in snowpack this week, with some areas forecasting significant snowfall. The heaviest five-day snow totals are expected in the northwest, particularly near Flattop Mountain (20") and Hawkins Lake (18"). These totals suggest excellent conditions ahead for Whitefish Mountain Resort and Turner Mountain, both near these sensors. Pike Creek and Mount Lockhart, near Glacier ... Read more