Winter has returned to Kelly Canyon Ski Area this January 6, 2026, with promising snowfall on the horizon. 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.
Wind
Humidity
Overnight temperatures held steady at 26°F, preserving the 12-inch base, though the snowpack remains about 50% below average for this time of year. Despite the leaner coverage, groomed runs are open and riding well, with packed powder conditions in the early morning and softening by midday. Skiers and boarders can anticipate a refreshing boost midweek, as forecasts predict over 5 inches of new snow in the next 72 hours and another 5 inches in the extended 5-day outlook.
Excitement is building locally, as regional media highlight a renewed love for skiing across Idaho Falls and Kelly Canyon. Still, the broader snow drought has stirred concerns, with ripple effects touching local businesses and ski area sustainability. With small ski areas under pressure nationwide, Kelly Canyon’s resilience shines—serving as a cherished hub for families and powder-seekers alike. As fresh flakes begin to fall, now is the time to carve out a few turns and support local slopes before the next storm rolls in.
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..
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.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Kelly Canyon Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
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 |
The ski area received -1" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, a 30 percent chance of snow, mainly between 2pm and 3pm. partly sunny, with a high near 32. southwest wind 18 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph. little or no snow accumulation expected.
Kelly Canyon Ski Area is expected to receive up to 5.73" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
Northern and central Idaho are set to see the heaviest snowfall over the next five days. The highest totals are forecast at Lost Lake (23"), Cool Creek (23"), Deadwood Summit (19"), and Lookout Pass (19"). Nearby resorts like Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area and Schweitzer Mountain Resort are expected to benefit significantly. Schweitzer, near Bear Mountain and Hidden Lake ... Read more