Buck Hill Ski Area Ski Report

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

It’s a crisp and clear December 20th at Buck Hill Ski Area, where overnight lows dipped to a brisk 10°F, preserving the fresh machine-groomed surfaces across open runs. Buck Hill Ski Area is a popular ski resort in Minnesota with 16 slopes and 10 lifts.



Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast

Hourly Snowfall


1"

Past 24 Hours

2.0"

Snowpack

°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity


Summary

Despite a modest 2-inch snowpack, skiers will be pleased to know this is over 200% of the typical depth for this time of year—thanks to efficient snowmaking and a few early-season dustings. Conditions today are fast and firm, ideal for early-season carving and training. Snow is in the forecast later this week, with flurries expected to freshen surfaces just in time for the holiday weekend. Lifts are spinning, and both terrain park features and beginner slopes are open for action.

While the slopes are buzzing, Buck Hill is also celebrating off the snow. This season marks the 60th anniversary of the iconic hill that produced Olympians and launched the legendary coaching career of Erich Sailer. Recent headlines celebrate the area’s surprising legacy in shaping elite athletes from the flatlands. Meanwhile, visitors should note an ongoing legal matter involving a past rope tow incident, though operations remain unaffected. With fewer crowds than the mountains and a rich history underfoot, Buck Hill is offering more than just turns—it’s delivering Minnesota’s best winter escape.

Snowpack Percent Normal

133%

Max Recorded Snowpack

13"

Snowfall Past 24 Hours

1"

Snowfall Past 48 Hours

1"

Snowfall Past 72 Hours

1"

Snowfall Next 24 Hours

0"

Snowfall Next 5 Days

0"

Terrain Surface

NA

Powder Score

NA
       

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 Hampton,Ia.

Regional Snowpack Depth

Snow levels measured from Hampton,Ia


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 Buck Hill Ski Area.

Historical Air Temperature

Temperature fluctuations at Buck Hill Ski Area


Recent air temperature fluctuations at Buck Hill Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.

About the Area


Buck Hill Ski Area in Minnesota is located in the Mississippi River Valley and does not have any significant mountain ranges or large mountain aspects. The ski resort features mostly gentle hills and slopes for skiing and snowboarding. It is known for being a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts in the region.

Best trails include Jack Frost, a black diamond run, and Dynamite, a challenging run with moguls. An interesting historical fact is that Buck Hill was the training ground for Olympic gold medalist Lindsey Vonn. For beginner skiers, the Learning Hill is a great place to start with gentle slopes and dedicated instructors. The best après ski bar is the Fireside Lounge, with a cozy fireplace and a wide selection of drinks and snacks. Buck Hill Ski Area offers a great skiing experience for all levels of skiers with interesting history and great amenities for post-ski relaxation.

Established

1954

Terrain Park

Yes

Night Skiing

Yes

Lift Count

11 Lifts

Run Count

16 Trails

Buck Hill Ski Area FAQ


How much snow did Buck Hill Ski Area receive over the past day?

The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.


What's the weather like at Buck Hill Ski Area today?

Weather today, mostly cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a temperature falling to around 25 by 5pm. breezy, with a northwest wind 11 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.


What are ski area conditions in Minnesota like right now?

Ski enthusiasts looking for fresh powder should direct their attention toward the Pacific Northwest and the Rocky Mountains, as recent observations indicate new snowfall in these regions. In Washington, the Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge has received 2 inches of fresh snow over the past 24 hours, with a considerable base of 170 inches. Despite the haze and slight chance of thunderstorms, ... Read more