Vail Ski Report
4.4/5 (5 Ratings)Nearby: Beaver Creek Resort
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
A gentle New Year’s Day snowfall graces Vail with a forecast of just over half an inch today, offering a soft refresh to the slopes. Vail Ski Resort is located in Colorado, United States, and is one of the largest ski resorts in North America.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Summary
However, with snowpack depth sitting at only 12 inches—nearly 58% below average—the resort is facing one of the most challenging early seasons in recent memory. The snow water equivalent (SWE) lingers at 3.2", and while the five-day outlook teases an additional 2 inches, conditions remain variable, with limited terrain open and some coverage thin. Temperatures held steady overnight at a mild 32°F, keeping surfaces soft but a bit sticky in lower elevations.
Despite the modest snow, the village buzzes with energy—from après-ski DJs to world-class ice skating and experiential dining lighting up the Vail Valley this weekend. Still, the steep $356 daily lift ticket has drawn headlines as skiers weigh value against limited terrain. As warm weather continues to challenge the Rockies, Vail Resorts is under pressure to deliver a premium experience in less-than-ideal conditions. Visitors should check for the latest terrain updates and plan ahead, as the mountain awaits a more substantial storm to truly kick the season into gear.
Snowstake Cam
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 Vail Mountain.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Vail Mountain
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 Vail.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Vail
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Vail impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Vail Ski Resort in Colorado is located in the Rocky Mountains and specifically in the White River National Forest. The resort is surrounded by several mountain ranges, including the Gore Range, Sawatch Range, and the Holy Cross Wilderness. Some of the prominent peaks in the area include Vail Mountain, Beaver Creek Mountain, and the Gore Range peaks such as Mount Powell and Mount of the Holy Cross.
Vail Ski Resort offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders, with over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, including groomed runs, moguls, glades, and backcountry areas. The mountain aspects at Vail include wide-open bowls, steep chutes, and tree-lined slopes, providing a diverse range of skiing and snowboarding experiences for all levels of ability.
It offers over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain with 195 trails, including some of the best blue and black diamond runs in the country. The resort also has a rich history, as it was founded by Pete Seibert, who served in the 10th Mountain Division during World War II and was inspired by the ski resorts in Europe. For beginners, a popular suggestion is to try out the Lionshead area, which has gentle slopes and a great ski school program. For après ski, the Garfinkel's bar is a popular choice, known for its lively atmosphere and affordable drinks.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 32 Lifts |
Base Elevation | 2475 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 5289 Acres |
Established | 1962 |
Run Count | 193 Trails |
Top Elevation | 3527 Meters |
Vail FAQ
How much snow did Vail receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Vail today?
Weather today, snow showers, mainly after 1pm. high near 33. south southwest wind around 5 mph becoming west in the afternoon. chance of precipitation is 80%. total daytime snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Vail this week?
Vail is expected to receive up to 2.13" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in Colorado like right now?
Steamboat Springs and the surrounding Routt National Forest are primed for the heaviest snowfall over the next five days, with Dry Lake and Elk River sensors forecasting 13 inches, and nearby Tower projecting 12 inches. These areas feed directly into Steamboat Ski Resort, making it the top pick for powder chasers. Rabbit Ears Pass and Scotch Creek are also expecting ... Read more
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