Early Season Skiing at Vail: Firm Groomers, Potential Powder, and Navigating the Crowds

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

Hey shredders, Vail's firing up for holiday turns but it's early season vibes with a thin base holding strong on groomers and select runs. Right now, base depth sits at 40cm (about 16 inches) with summit at 71cm (28 inches), mostly artificial snow keeping things skiable since the last natural dump on December 7. No freshies in the last 24 or 48 hours, but season total's around 48 inches so far—solid start toward Vail's epic 350-inch average.

Only 21% of terrain's open (49km of 234km slopes) with 10 of 34 lifts spinning, including valley runs for easy laps—perfect for building confidence before the bowls explode. Pistes are firm with that man-made base, ideal for carving; off-piste is variable, so check avy reports and gear up before venturing out as wind and sun can crust things quick.

Today's weather? Mostly sunny with highs near 47°F at base, light winds gusting to 25mph—prime for jackets and shades. Looking ahead, expect up to 1 inch today through cloudy skies (freeze-thaw mid-mountain), then another inch Friday, building to 2-5 inches by Sunday the 28th as temps drop to the teens at summit. Cooler and snowier into New Year's with lows in the 10s-20s and highs 40s—powder potential rising!

Pro tip from locals: Hit the north-facing fall lines early; they hold chalk best in December's low sun. Vail's open through April 19, but crowds peak holidays—grab Epic App for lift lines and alerts. Stay safe, send it smart, and tag those GS turns!

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This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI