Chestnut Mountain Resort Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 1, 2026
It’s a frosty start to 2026 at Chestnut Mountain Resort with overnight lows dipping to a brisk 12.7°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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Summary
However, the magic is in the mountains as the resort kicks off the new year with an energetic buzz—despite a thin 1-inch snowpack, which is nearly 11 inches below seasonal averages. Machine-groomed runs and expert snowmaking are keeping the slopes rideable for early-bird adventurers, with beginner and intermediate trails holding up best under the crisp conditions. While natural snowfall remains elusive this week, cold temps are perfect for overnight snowmaking, so expect improving surface quality as the weekend approaches.
Off the slopes, Chestnut is in the spotlight with national attention highlighting its unique mountain coaster and picturesque Galena views. However, it's not all good news—recent local headlines report a tragic incident involving a teen at the resort pool, a sobering reminder for guests to stay vigilant around non-ski amenities. Still, with the resort earning nods as one of the Midwest’s best winter destinations, visitors can expect a lively atmosphere, scenic Mississippi River overlooks, and a warm, small-town welcome to balance out the thin snow cover. Stay tuned for any snow system developments later in the week that could boost the base.
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, a chance of flurries between 10am and 11am. cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 20. north wind around 5 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon.
What are ski area conditions in Illinois like right now?
Ski enthusiasts, take note: recent snowfall across the country has brought fresh powder to several beloved slopes, with a mix of weather patterns that could affect your plans in the coming days. In Washington state, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge reported a modest 2 inches of new snow over the last 24 hours, with a substantial 170-inch base, despite the forecast of ... Read more
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