Kelly Canyon Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 1, 2026
A fresh start to 2026 greets skiers at Kelly Canyon Ski Area with light snow in the air and more on the way. Kelly Canyon Ski Area is a small family-friendly ski resort in Idaho, offering 640 acres of skiable terrain, seven lifts, and 26 runs that cater to all skill levels.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
After a chilly overnight low of 24.6°F, the slopes hold a modest 10-inch snowpack—well below average for this time of year, sitting at 55% under seasonal norms. But don’t hang up your skis just yet: forecasters are calling for 2.1" of new snow in the next 24 hours, with a promising 7" expected over the next five days. With 2.8" of Snow Water Equivalent, the base is holding firm enough for early season runs, especially on groomed trails.
Local buzz is reigniting the love for skiing in Idaho, with recent features spotlighting Kelly Canyon’s charm and its role in the state’s lesser-known “powder highway.” But there’s a somber undertone in the region as resorts face pressure from sparse snowfall and economic challenges. Still, passion and resilience define this mom-and-pop mountain. While natural snowfall is below average, the spirit on the slopes remains high. This is a great time to enjoy uncrowded trails, reconnect with the mountain, and take advantage of quieter moments on the hill before the next big storm rolls in.
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 Sheep Mtn..
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Sheep 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 Kelly Canyon Ski Area.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Kelly Canyon Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Kelly Canyon Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Some of the pertinent mountain ranges and mountain aspects of Kelly Canyon Ski Area in Idaho include:
1. Teton Range: The Teton Range is a prominent mountain range located near Kelly Canyon Ski Area, offering stunning views and challenging terrain for skiing and snowboarding.
2. Snake River Range: Another nearby mountain range that provides a picturesque backdrop to the ski resort and features diverse terrain for all skill levels.
3. Elevation: Kelly Canyon Ski Area has a base elevation of 5,600 feet and a summit elevation of 6,600 feet, providing ample vertical drop for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy.
4. Terrain: The ski resort offers a variety of terrain, including groomed runs, moguls, glades, and terrain parks, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
5. Snowfall: Kelly Canyon Ski Area receives an average of 200 inches of snowfall each year, ensuring excellent skiing conditions throughout the winter season.
The best trails for advanced skiers are the black diamond runs off Lift 1, while beginners are recommended to start on the gentle slopes off Lifts 2 and 3. The resort has a long-standing tradition of hosting the annual Snow Devils Ski School, which is one of the oldest ski schools in the US. For après ski, head to the Safari Inn in nearby Rigby, which offers a cozy atmosphere, live music, and affordable drinks.
Night Skiing | Yes |
Lift Count | 6 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 3400 per hour |
Base Elevation | 1707 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 640 Acres |
Established | 1957 |
Run Count | 26 Trails |
Kelly Canyon Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Kelly Canyon Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Kelly Canyon Ski Area today?
Weather today, snow, mainly after noon. high near 34. south wind 10 to 14 mph. chance of precipitation is 90%. total daytime snow accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Kelly Canyon Ski Area this week?
Kelly Canyon Ski Area is expected to receive up to 7.85" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in Idaho like right now?
Northern Idaho is seeing the heaviest new snow and forecasts this week. The Schweitzer Basin near Sandpoint is forecasted to receive up to 16 inches of snow over the next five days, with a current snowpack of 43". Nearby sensors at Bear Mountain and Hidden Lake show similar snow activity, with 5-day forecasts of 19" and 22", respectively, making Schweitzer ... Read more
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