Bitter cold temperatures settled over Mount Kato Ski Area overnight with a low of just 3.8°F, preserving a solid snowpack of 7 inches—an impressive 264% above average for this time of year. Mount Kato Ski Area is a ski resort located in Mankato, Minnesota.
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Skiers and riders can expect a powdery base across most runs, making for ideal early-season conditions. With fresh snow in the forecast—over an inch expected in the next 24 hours and nearly 3 inches by the weekend—conditions will only improve as December kicks off. Light snow flurries could begin as early as Friday afternoon, giving a welcome refresh to groomed trails and glade runs alike.
However, the community is mourning after a tragic accident involving a Mankato East High School student over the weekend. Skiers are urged to prioritize safety on the slopes as the season gets underway. Despite the somber start, Mount Kato remains a favorite among Minnesota ski destinations, and with season passes currently on sale for just $99, it’s an inviting time to carve into the new snow. As we head into winter, the resort is poised for one of its strongest starts in recent years—so long as guests ride respectfully and responsibly.
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 Blue Earth 1s.
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 Mount Kato Ski Area.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Mount Kato Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
The pertinent mountain range for Mount Kato Ski Area in Minnesota is the Coteau des Prairies, which is a relatively flat and rolling region that extends into the state from the Dakotas.
Mount Kato Ski Area itself does not have any significant mountain aspects as it is located in a relatively flat area of southern Minnesota. The highest point at the ski area is only around 835 feet above sea level. Despite this, Mount Kato offers a variety of runs and terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels to enjoy.
The resort boasts over 19 runs with a vertical drop of 240 feet. The best trails for advanced skiers are the Upper Ridge and Lower Ridge runs. Mount Kato also has a rich history, having been opened in 1963 and now run by third-generation owners. For beginners, the resort recommends trying the Bunny Hill and Magic Carpet. The best après-ski bar in the area is the Loose Moose Saloon, located on site, which offers a selection of drinks and live music on weekends.
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, a 40 percent chance of snow, mainly between 8am and 5pm. cloudy, with a high near 33. south southwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming west northwest in the afternoon.
Mount Kato Ski Area is expected to receive up to 2.99" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
In the latest ski conditions across the nation, recent snowfall and upcoming forecasts suggest varying impacts on ski resorts, with a focus on the Pacific Northwest and the Rocky Mountains. Over the past 24 hours, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge in Washington State recorded 2 inches of new snow with a substantial base of 170 inches, although the weather is somewhat unsettled ... Read more