2026-01-23T12:00:00-06:00
* WHAT...For the Extreme Cold Warning, dangerously cold wind chills as low as 45 below. For the Cold Weather Advisory, very cold wind chills as low as 25 below expected. * WHERE...In Illinois, Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Stephenson Counties. In Iowa, Benton, Jackson, Jones, Linn, Buchanan, Delaware, and Dubuque Counties. * WHEN...For the Extreme Cold Warning, until noon CST today. For the Cold Weather Advisory, from noon today to noon CST Saturday. * IMPACTS...The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 45 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
Chestnut Mountain Resort Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 23, 2026
With overnight lows dipping to a crisp 3.3°F, Chestnut Mountain Resort greets skiers and snowboarders this January 23rd with firm, fast conditions. Chestnut Mountain Resort in Illinois offers 19 trails ranging from beginner to expert, with the best trails being Sundance and Smokey.
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Humidity
15-Day Snow Forecast
Snowfall Accumulations
Summary
Despite a modest snowpack depth of just 1", the resort is boasting an impressive 124% of its average snowpack for this time of year, thanks to strong early-season snowfall and consistent snowmaking. While no new snow is currently forecasted, the clear skies and cold temperatures are preserving the groomed runs beautifully, offering hard-packed trails ideal for carving and high-speed cruising across the mountain’s diverse terrain.
Chestnut Mountain continues to shine as a Midwest winter gem, recently featured among the region’s top ski and snowboard destinations. However, skiers should be aware of recent local news, including a tragic incident involving a 15-year-old drowning in the resort's swimming pool. While this does not impact on-mountain operations, guests are encouraged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety across all resort amenities. With its sweeping Mississippi River views, well-maintained runs, and year-round appeal, Chestnut Mountain remains a top pick for winter thrill-seekers looking for a mix of adventure and tranquility in northern Illinois.
Hourly 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 Elizabeth.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Elizabeth
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 Chestnut Mountain Resort.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Chestnut Mountain Resort
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Chestnut Mountain Resort impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Chestnut Mountain Resort is located in Illinois and is part of the Mississippi River Valley. The resort is situated in the hilly terrain of the Driftless Area, a region known for its rugged limestone bluffs and deep valleys.
The ski resort is situated along the Mississippi River and offers views of the river valley and surrounding bluffs. The main mountain range at Chestnut Mountain Resort is the Galena Ridge, which is known for its challenging slopes and scenic vistas.
Other notable mountain aspects at Chestnut Mountain Resort include the Cedar Bluff and Eagle's Nest runs, which offer steep terrain and stunning views of the surrounding area. The resort also features a variety of beginner and intermediate runs, making it suitable for skiers of all levels.
Overall, the mountain ranges and aspects of Chestnut Mountain Resort provide a unique and picturesque setting for skiing and snowboarding in Illinois.
As an interesting historical fact, the resort was started by a group of Swiss investors in the 1950s. For beginners, it is recommended to try the Easy Street and Bunny trails. The best apres ski bar is The Summit, located at the top of the mountain, offering stunning views and live music on weekends. Overall, Chestnut Mountain Resort is a great option for skiing in the Midwest.
Night Skiing | Yes |
Lift Count | 9 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 10000 per hour |
Base Elevation | 172 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 146 Acres |
Established | 1959 |
Run Count | 19 Trails |
Chestnut Mountain Resort FAQ
How much snow did Chestnut Mountain Resort receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Chestnut Mountain Resort today?
Weather today, sunny and cold, with a high near -5. wind chill values as low as -35. northwest wind 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
What are ski area conditions in Illinois like right now?
As fresh snow blankets the slopes, ski enthusiasts are looking at a promising report for some of the nation’s beloved resorts. In Washington, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge has received 2 inches of new snow over the past 24 hours, with a solid base of 170 inches. While the weather brings a hint of haze followed by a slight chance of thunderstorms, ... Read more
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