Vail's Lean Start, but Epic Powder Ahead: A Cautious Slopes Update

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

Hey powder hounds, Vail's just getting warmed up this season, but it's lean times on the slopes right now—think early bird terrain with a side of patience. Base sits at 40cm (about 16 inches), summit 71cm (28 inches), mostly groomed artificial snow since the last natural dump way back on December 7. A fresh 4 inches hit over the weekend storm, jazzing up the limited open runs, but season total's hovering around 48 inches so far—way below Vail's epic 350-inch average.

Only 21% of trails (49/234km) and 29% of lifts (10/34) are spinning, including the valley run for that sweet lap potential. Pistes are firm with machine-made cover; off-piste is variable, wind-scoured in spots, but stay cautious as unopened terrain dominates. No fun parks, halfpipes, or night skiing yet.

Today's vibe at 1pm UTC (early afternoon Mountain time)? Crisp and below freezing everywhere—valley lows near 10°F climbing to 25°F max, summit colder at 13-19°F with light snow showers fading to clears. Bundle up!

Forecast's teasing us: Monday mostly clear, highs 31°F valley/18°F mid-mountain. Tuesday 41°F/29°F, warming to 44°F/32°F Wednesday—freeze-thaw up high, snowline rising. Thursday might sprinkle

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