Chestnut Mountain Resort Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 17, 2025
Bluebird skies and crisp mountain air greet skiers and riders today at Chestnut Mountain Resort, where overnight temperatures dipped to a brisk 22.7°F. Chestnut Mountain Resort in Illinois offers 19 trails ranging from beginner to expert, with the best trails being Sundance and Smokey.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
With a snowpack sitting at 2 inches—just a fraction under the historical average at 99.3%—conditions are primed for a solid day on the slopes. Snowmaking efforts are in full swing to bolster the base, and with flurries forecasted later this week, anticipation is building for a potential powder refresh before the weekend. The groomers have laid down some buttery corduroy, perfect for carving turns across the mountain's 19 trails.
Chestnut Mountain continues to garner attention as one of the Midwest’s premier ski destinations, recently spotlighted by regional outlets for its unique blend of winter adventure and small-town charm. Notably, the resort’s mountain coaster—Illinois' only alpine coaster—is adding a new layer of excitement for après-ski thrill-seekers. As the Indy Pass expands to include Chestnut, pass holders now have more reason than ever to hit the slopes in Galena. Whether you're chasing powder or just soaking in Mississippi River views from the summit, today's conditions offer a balanced mix of winter beauty and adrenaline-pumping fun.
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, partly sunny, with a high near 36. calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
What are ski area conditions in Illinois like right now?
In the Pacific Northwest, Washington's ski enthusiasts can look forward to some fresh cover at their nearest slopes. The Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge received 2 inches of new snow in the past 24 hours, setting up a modest refresh for local resorts like Crystal Mountain. With a base of 170 inches and a forecast of hazy conditions followed by a slight ... Read more
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