Montana SNOW REPORT
March 19 2024
Montana's snow report indicates a varied landscape for snow enthusiasts, with conditions varying considerably by location and elevation. Notable snowpack depths can be found at Black Bear with a substantial depth of 96 inches, followed by Flattop Mountain and Hoodoo Basin, both exceeding 80 inches, offering excellent opportunities for deep powder experiences. However, snowfall in the last 24 hours has been minimal across the state, with many areas reporting a decrease due to settling and compaction. The immediate forecast suggests modest snow accumulation, with Badger Pass expecting the most significant increase of 12 inches over the next five days, and Flattop Mountain and Many Glacier not far behind, predicting 15 and 17 inches respectively. These forecasts bode well for ski resorts like Whitefish Mountain Resort near Flattop Mountain and the outdoor paradises of Glacier National Park near Many Glacier.
In contrast, several locations are experiencing snowpack depths below the ...
Montana's snow report indicates a varied landscape for snow enthusiasts, with conditions varying considerably by location and elevation. Notable snowpack depths can be found at Black Bear with a substantial depth of 96 inches, followed by Flattop Mountain and Hoodoo Basin, both exceeding 80 inches, offering excellent opportunities for deep powder experiences. However, snowfall in the last 24 hours has been minimal across the state, with many areas reporting a decrease due to settling and compaction. The immediate forecast suggests modest snow accumulation, with Badger Pass expecting the most significant increase of 12 inches over the next five days, and Flattop Mountain and Many Glacier not far behind, predicting 15 and 17 inches respectively. These forecasts bode well for ski resorts like Whitefish Mountain Resort near Flattop Mountain and the outdoor paradises of Glacier National Park near Many Glacier.
In contrast, several locations are experiencing snowpack depths below the 20-inch mark, such as Rocky Boy, Beaver Creek, and Copper Bottom, indicating lower-than-ideal conditions for winter sports. The recent 24-hour snowfall has also been underwhelming or negative across the board, suggesting a need for fresh snow to bolster the recreational prospects. Snowpack droughts in these areas could impact local winter activities and necessitate a reliance on artificial snowmaking at ski resorts.
Looking ahead, snow enthusiasts should look towards the higher elevations for the best conditions. The upcoming snowfalls forecasted for Badger Pass, Dupuyer Creek, and Pike Creek will likely enhance the snowpack in these areas, potentially improving conditions at nearby ski areas like Showdown Montana in the Little Belt Mountains. However, variability is the theme, with many areas anticipating minimal new snow. Outdoor enthusiasts are advised to plan accordingly, focusing on areas with promising forecasts or substantial existing snowpack for the best winter recreation experiences.
Montana's snowpack conditions vary across its diverse mountain ranges. The Rocky Mountains in the western part of the state receive the most snowfall, contributing to vital water sources and watersheds. The Crown of the Continent, encompassing the Glacier National Park, receives heavy snowfall and feeds into the Missouri River, while the Bitterroot Range is crucial for the Clark Fork and Bitterroot Rivers. The Bridger Range, Big Belt Mountains, and the Little Belt Mountains also contribute to the watersheds. Montana experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and abundant snowfall. Interesting snow science and history in Montana include the discovery of Ice Age snowshoes near Yellowstone National Park and advancements in snow water equivalent measurement techniques. It is important to verify snowpack conditions with up-to-date data from sources like the Natural Resources Conservation Service and Montana Snowpack Summary.