2025-12-18T18:00:00-06:00
* WHAT...Snow and areas of blowing snow. Additional snow accumulations up to one inch. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...Portions of central, north central, northwest, and west central Minnesota. * WHEN...Until 6 PM CST this evening. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Blowing snow will lead to areas of quick and sudden reductions to visibility, making travel difficult, especially in rural areas that are prone to blowing snow. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday evening commute. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.
Val Chatel Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 18, 2025
A chilly morning greets Val Chatel with overnight lows dipping to a brisk 1.3°F, preserving the modest 11-inch snowpack that clings to the slopes. Val Chatel ski resort in Minnesota offers a variety of skiing options for all skill levels, with the best trails being the intermediate runs.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a Snow Water Equivalent of 1.33", the base remains firm but slightly crusty—ideal for early morning riders looking for quick turns on groomed runs. Light snow is forecasted today, with 1.27 inches expected in the next 24 hours and a total of 1.81 inches over the next three days, offering a soft refresh for the trails. While powder hounds may not find deep stashes, the steady accumulation promises improved surface conditions heading into the weekend.
However, skiers and snowboarders should savor every turn—this winter may be one of the last at Val Chatel. Demolition has begun at the historic ski area, with local headlines confirming the transformation of the resort into a regional park, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor. Once a beloved winter destination, Val Chatel is now in its final chapter. For those nostalgic for Minnesota’s ski heritage, now is the time to experience Val Chatel’s slopes before the lifts fall silent for good.
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 Park Rapids 1.0 Nne, Mn.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Park Rapids 1.0 Nne, Mn
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 Val Chatel.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Val Chatel
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Val Chatel impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Val Chatel Ski Resort in Minnesota is located in the Sawtooth Mountain Range. The resort is known for its challenging slopes and beautiful views of Lake Superior. Some of the prominent mountain aspects of Val Chatel Ski Resort include Moose Mountain, Eagle Mountain, and Mystery Mountain. These peaks offer a variety of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
A lesser-known fact is that the resort was originally a tuberculosis sanatorium in the early 1900s before being transformed into a ski destination in the 1940s. For beginner skiers, it is recommended to start on the Bunny Hill and work their way up to the easier green runs. As for après-ski, the Summit Chalet Bar & Grill offers a cozy atmosphere and tasty food, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
Established | 1953 |
Val Chatel FAQ
How much snow did Val Chatel receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Val Chatel today?
Weather today, a 50 percent chance of snow, mainly before 5pm. patchy blowing snow between 9am and noon. cloudy, with a temperature falling to around 3 by 5pm. wind chill values as low as -21. windy, with a west wind 16 to 21 mph becoming north northwest 25 to 30 mph in the afternoon. winds could gust as high as 43 mph. new snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Val Chatel this week?
Val Chatel is expected to receive up to 1.81" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in Minnesota like right now?
Ski enthusiasts in Washington and Colorado can expect fresh snow on the trails, adding a delightful dusting to the already favorable conditions. Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge in Washington has reported a modest 2 inches of new snow over the last 24 hours, with a base sitting at a substantial 170 inches. The local ski areas such as Crystal Mountain Resort and ... Read more