Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

If you're dreaming of carving fresh tracks in Vail right now, you're in for a mixed but promising start to the ski season. Currently, Vail has about **40 cm (16 inches) of snow at the base** and an impressive **71 cm (28 inches) at the summit**, primarily covered with artificial snow since recent natural snowfall has been modest. Over the past 48 hours, Vail received roughly **17 cm (7 inches) of fresh powder**, delivering some welcome freshness to early-season slopes.

However, the ski terrain is still warming up for full winter action—out of 34 lifts, only **7 are open**, serving about **12% of the total runs**, which translates to **29 km of 234 km of pistes available** to shred right now. Those who venture out can expect some decent downhill action on these limited runs, mostly managed by well-maintained artificial snow cover. Off-piste skiing is possible but conditions favor cautious exploration as natural snow cover is still building.

Currently, the weather is cold but fairly stable. Daytime temperatures hover near **-2°C (28°F)**, with night lows plunging to about **-17°C (1°F)**, offering crisp air and typically **6 hours of sunshine daily**. Winds are moderate, shifting from north to southeast, bringing isolated snow showers this afternoon, which might add just a dusting. The immediate forecast shows light snow tomorrow morning with about **1 cm more precipitation expected**, and the next significant snow push arrives mid-December with about **10 cm forecasted for the 21st**, so keep the skis waxed and the board ready.

For powder hounds, the early season holds **5 powder days recorded**, and the slopes have seen at least one clear, sun-kissed "bluebird" day to enjoy some scenic vistas and soft snow conditions. The terrain parks and halfpipe remain closed for now, so freestyle enthusiasts will want to stick to natural features and groomed runs for the time being.

Looking ahead, the next five days forecast calls for mostly cold weather with light snow showers mainly at altitude, keeping conditions cold and preserving the surface snow quality. Daytime highs will remain in the mid to low 20s Fahrenheit (-6 to -3°C), dipping well below freezing overnight, which is perfect for maintaining firm slopes and a good base layer that every skier loves.

This season, Vail expects to build towards a total snowfall consistent with its long-term average of about **242 inches (615 cm)** per year, which makes it one of Colorado’s most snow-rich resorts once the season is in full swing. The ski season opened mid-November and runs through to **April 19, 2026**, so there’s plenty of time for that big snowfall to arrive.

Special reminders for visitors: The limited open terrain means lift lines are light, but be prepared for some early season bumps as the mountain finishes grooming and expanding access. Dress warmly as temperatures can be biting, especially on summit runs, and keep an eye on real-time updates through Vail’s Epic App or website for any changes in lift or trail status due to weather developments.

All in all, Vail is serving up a tantalizing teaser for skiers and snowboarders alike—enough snow to get the legs turning, crisp mountain air, and a forecast that holds promise for deeper powder soon. Whether you are a seasoned local or visiting for that famous Colorado experience, the mountain is gently waking up for a classic winter season. Time to wax those boards and buckle in—the high alpine adventure is calling!

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

If you’re gearing up for a ski or snowboard adventure at Vail, Colorado, here’s the freshest scoop on snow and slopes to help you “think like a local.” Right now, the base snow depth is around 28 inches, while up top at the summit, it’s about 45 centimeters (roughly 18 inches). Recent snowfalls have been light — less than an inch in the last 24 to 48 hours — mainly artificial snow boosting the coverage since the natural snow last fell a few days ago on December 4th. The mountain has just started to open up, so only about 7 to 9 lifts are operating out of a total of over 30, and around 33 trails are accessible out of a full 277, so plenty to explore but still early season conditions[1][3][5].

Weather-wise, it’s a crisp scene with temperatures hovering close to 32°F (0°C) during the day, dipping to a chilly -8°F (-22°C) or a bit colder at night, with occasional gusty west winds making it feel even more alpine. The skies have been mostly partly sunny with isolated snow showers early in the mornings, promising some fresh light powder to wake up to[7]. The snow quality on the slopes is currently a mix of early-season groomed artificial snow, with powder off-piste still developing as the natural snowfall accumulates over the season.

Looking ahead over the next five days, expect relatively stable weather with mostly light snow showers that could add another 1 inch or so, mainly at higher elevations, and temperatures remaining cold enough to keep the snow in great shape. The forecast suggests a chance for some light snow midweek with partly sunny breaks, making conditions on the pistes quite pleasant[6][11]. Daytime highs are expected to hover around 28°F to 34°F (-2°C to 1°C) with nighttime lows dropping well below freezing, perfect for those who love the fresh morning crust and crisp air.

Off-piste enthusiasts should note the season is still ramping up, so be cautious in less tracked areas as the snowpack is not yet deep or settled. The valley runs are open and well-maintained, but terrain parks and halfpipes remain closed for now while the resort focuses on building a solid base[3].

Vail’s seasonal snowfall typically averages 241 inches annually with around 64 snowfall days, so this early December phase is just kicking off, and locals are eagerly awaiting more big snowstorms to bring the full mountain to life[9]. Visitors should also keep a lookout for any operational updates or lift schedule changes, which are common in the early season due to variable conditions—be sure to check real-time reports through the Vail resort app or webcams for the latest on lift lines and terrain availability[5][7].

So whether you’re carving the open runs or dreaming of fresh powder turns, Vail currently offers a promising start to the season with solid base depths, steadily improving lift access, and chilly but beautiful weather that’s classic Colorado. Pack your layers, tune your gear, and get ready for some prime skiing and snowboarding on one of the country’s most iconic mountains.

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

If you're gearing up for a Vail adventure, get ready: the snow conditions are shaping up nicely for early December, offering a mixed bag of fresh powder and classic winter mountain vibes. As of the latest reports, the snow depth sits at about **45 cm (approximately 18 inches) at the mountain summit (3527 m)** and around **30 cm (12 inches) at the base (2457 m)**, mostly composed of artificial snow with some natural accumulation from early December[1][5]. Just a couple of days ago on December 4th, Vail welcomed a fresh dusting of **11 cm (4.3 inches) of snow**, but since then only light snowfall under 1 cm has been reported for the last 24 to 48 hours, so the surface is set but not deepening dramatically right now[1].

Navigating the mountain, you’ll find that **6 of the 34 lifts (about 18%)** are currently operational, serving just **9 kilometers of the total 234 km of skiable terrain (roughly 4% open)**[1][4][5]. This means early visitors will want to plan carefully—while the famous valley run is open, many trails remain closed as the mountain builds its winter base. Snow parks and halfpipes are still closed and night skiing is not available just yet[1]. The snow quality is good, particularly on the slopes that have received artificial snow and recent natural dustings, but expect some areas to feel firmer or icy until more snowfall arrives.

Weather today is brisk and classic Colorado winter: temperatures at the summit hover around a chill **-11°C (12°F) max and -18°C (0°F) min**, with a high near **33°F (1°C) at the base**, coupled with gusty west winds of 15 to 20 mph and patchy blowing snow, adding a bit of that winter bite and exhilarating atmosphere on the slopes[10]. The forecast for the next five days suggests mainly cold and dry weather with minimal new snow accumulation — mostly under 1 cm — until around midweek when light snow showers could add another couple of centimeters, especially at higher elevations. Temperatures will range from lows near -20°C (-4°F) at night to highs that struggle above freezing during the day, keeping snow conditions cold and stable[1][9][13].

Fans of off-piste skiing should note that avalanche conditions and off-piste safety should be rigorously checked before heading out, as the alpine environment is still early season with less snowpack depth than peak winter. Avalanches are generally not high risk at this point, but caution is always advised when venturing off groomed runs[2]. The season total snowpack so far is modest compared to Vail’s average annual snowfall of over 600 cm (about 241 inches), but this is typical for early December as the mountain is still accumulating its winter base[8].

For visitors, the current scene is perfect for those who enjoy quieter slopes and early season freshness, but not yet for powder hounds chasing deep dumps. Dress warmly, prepare for some wind, and enjoy the crisp mountain air with plenty of sunshine typical for the month of December, with about 6 hours of daylight and plenty of winter spectacle[3]. Road and travel conditions may still be affected by recent storms, so prospective guests should check up-to-date Colorado travel advisories and mountain road conditions before arrival, especially as winds and blowing snow can impact mountain access[18].

In all, Vail is waking up for the season with a solid start. With a bit more snow likely midweek and a good base forming, savvy skiers and snowboarders will find early December an inviting time to carve some turns without the usual crowds. Just remember, it's early season, so pick your trails wisely and keep an eye on weather and lift updates through the official Vail apps or websites for real-time changes[10][15]. Whether it’s your first run of the season or a taste of alpine magic to come, Vail’s snowy canvas awaits your tracks.

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

If you’re gearing up for a Vail adventure on the slopes, here’s the freshest scoop on what’s shaping up at this Colorado classic ski resort. The mountain is sporting a **30 cm (about 12 inches) snow base at the village level**, and around **45 cm (nearly 18 inches) up at the summit**—not quite deep powder, but a solid start to the season thanks mainly to artificial snowmaking for now. The last fresh push of natural snow fell on December 4th, with about 11 cm reported on higher terrain on December 5th, bringing some welcome softness to the trails.

Currently, things are pretty limited in terms of terrain access, with about **6 lifts running out of 34** and **9 trails open out of 278**, mostly around beginner and valley runs, reflecting early season conditions as Vail carefully builds its snowpack. The existing snow is a mix of well-groomed base layers and artificial snow in spots, so expect some firm and fast surfaces—great for confident skiers and riders looking to sharpen their carving skills before deeper snow arrives.

Weather-wise, temperatures have been typical for early December here: daytime highs hovering just below freezing, around -9 to -11°C (12-15°F) at summit levels, and lows dipping as low as -18°C (0°F) overnight at altitude. The village area warms a bit more, near freezing during the day. The forecast calls for mostly cold, clear days with occasional snow showers mainly before the afternoon on some days, including a modest chance of snow showers predicted in the next 24-48 hours that could add an inch or so of powder, but nothing huge yet. Over the next five days, expect temperatures to stay cold with highs ranging from -9°C to about -3°C on sunny or partly cloudy days, typical for a Colorado mountain early in the season.

Off-piste is still very limited and generally not recommended this early before a deeper and more stable base forms. Avalanche danger isn’t a big issue yet given the shallow snow depth, but off-piste enthusiasts should wait for more snow accumulation and official guidance from mountain patrol.

Looking at the broader picture, Vail is on track for a strong season. Historically, this time of year marks the transition from limited opening to slow but steady terrain expansion. The resort normally averages about **354 inches (900 cm) of snowfall over an entire season**, so the season total snowfall is just getting started. Current conditions reflect early season La Niña patterns bringing intermittent storms with spells of wet snow and periods of clearer weather.

For visitors, it’s a good time to test your gear in crisp mountain air, enjoy quieter slopes, and get prepared for the deeper powder days ahead. Lodging deals are still available with some good discounts, and the resort encourages using the My Epic App to stay updated on lift status and real-time mountain alerts. Remember, the snowpack is still thin, so stick to open trails and ski areas, and enjoy the fresh mountain air and breathtaking views without pushing into risky terrain.

In summary, Vail offers a promising start: base layers solid but slim, good early-season snow quality primarily artificial, limited lifts and runs open, cold and mostly clear weather with modest snow in the forecast, and anticipation building for the powder-packed weeks to come. It’s the perfect time to get your legs under you and savor the peace of early season skiing before the crowds arrive and the mountain fully wakes up.

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

If your heart races at the thought of carving fresh tracks in Vail, Colorado, get ready—this season is kicking off with just enough snow and great vibes for eager skiers and snowboarders. Vail has a modest but promising snow base right now: about **45 cm (18 inches) at the mountain summit** and **30 cm (12 inches) at the base**, primarily artificial snow laid down after the last measurable snowfall on December 3rd. The mountain is waking up from early winter’s hush with a fresh dusting expected this weekend—around **12 cm (5 inches) forecasted on Saturday**, bringing a welcome boost to the early season surface[1][4][19].

Lift and trail access is still limited as the resort carefully opens the slopes. Currently, only **6 out of 34 lifts (about 18%) are operational**, giving access to about **9 km of the full 234 km of trails (around 4%)**. The much-loved Valley Run is open, providing a taste of Vail’s famed wide, scenic terrain, but the snowparks and halfpipes remain closed for now while the snowpack develops[1][8].

Weather-wise, Vail is living up to its chilly reputation in early December. Expect cold but clear days, with mountain temperatures hovering around **-11°C to -18°C up high** and valley lows near freezing or just below at night. The sun is making decent appearances, with about 6 hours of daylight sunshine—perfect for those who like crisp air and bluebird conditions[3][7][8]. The forecast paints a cool outlook through the weekend with mostly clear skies on Friday and a gentle snowstorm arriving Saturday, promising powder fans a powder day or two with temps remaining well below freezing overnight[1][4][19].

For the next five days, the sky will be mostly settled with light snow on and off, especially midweek, and daytime highs struggling just below zero at elevation, while the town may warm slightly above freezing during the day before dipping again at night. This freeze-thaw cycle is typical this time of year and can create a nice crunchy base with soft patches after fresh snowfall, especially off-piste where powder lovers dream of untouched powder caches[1][9].

The season total snowfall is still growing, but Vail’s annual averages hover around **240 inches (610 cm)** of snow with about 64 snowy days typically, so this early base buildup looks on track to deliver a solid season. Early December generally sees variable conditions as natural snow gains strength, but artificial snowmaking ensures the core runs remain skiable before consistent storms arrive[10][14].

Currently, Vail is all about savoring the early season charm—groomed runs with artificial snow and the promise of upcoming powder days. Off-piste powder is still minimal due to thin coverage in some areas, so venturing into the backcountry should be done cautiously with proper avalanche awareness. Also, night skiing and snowparks await better snow depth and safety conditions, so plan for daytime adventures[1][8].

For visitors, the resort reminds skiers and snowboarders to stay flexible with their plans, as lift and trail openings can shift quickly depending on weather and snow conditions. With lifts running at less than 20% capacity, expect some queues and limited terrain choices, but also relish the quieter mountain atmosphere that early-season days offer before the crowds flood in.

So get your gear ready, keep an eye on the fresh snow updates, and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Vail is serving up a taste of classic Colorado winter with bright skies, fresh tracks to be made, and the unmistakable thrill of early-season slopes ready to reward those who "think like a local" and ride early and often.

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

If you’re gearing up for some world-class skiing or snowboarding at Vail, Colorado, here’s the latest scoop on snow conditions and what to expect on the slopes this December. The mountain is waking up from early season mode with a current snow depth of about **45 cm at the summit (11,570 feet)** and **30 cm at the base**, primarily from artificial grooming and recent natural snowfalls. Speaking of fresh powder, you can expect roughly **6 cm (~2.4 inches) of new snow** in the last 24 hours, with similar amounts over the past 48 hours in some areas, so conditions are getting nicely coated[1][8].

However, keep in mind that despite the fresh snow, only **6 of Vail’s 34 lifts** are currently spinning (about 18%), serving **9 of the resort’s 278 trails**—just a sliver (around 4%) of the terrain is open at this time of the season[1][8][12]. The main valley run is welcoming skiers, but expect many trails and lifts still closed as the mountain builds up base depths and waits for more consistent snow.

Weather-wise, Vail is showing classic early-December chill, with daytime highs lingering near **-2°C (around 28°F)** and crisp nighttime lows plunging to around **-17°C (1°F)**. The forecast calls for mostly clear skies today with snow showers likely earlier in the week and moderate cold persisting. The next 5 days carry a mix of sun and clouds, with light snow showers possible—ideal to keep the snowpack refreshed without heavy storms. Temperatures will hover in the same cold range, dipping closer to -15°C to -18°C at the summit overnight, which means the powder should stay relatively dry and light[3][4][7][9].

On the snow quality front, pistes range from groomed packed powder to firm and icy patches during freeze-thaw cycles—typical for early season conditions. Off-piste terrain is a bit more variable: fresh snow can quickly turn into wind slab or crust if the wind picks up or sun bakes the slopes, so don’t expect deep, untouched powder runs yet. The mountain is grooming hard to offer smooth rides on the open terrain, with snow preserved best at higher elevations[4].

So far, the 2025–26 season has been a steady builder, with snowfall trending slightly above early-season averages thanks to the developing La Niña pattern, which promises a wetter and potentially more powder-rich Colorado winter overall[13]. Vail typically sees around **354 inches (nearly 30 feet) of snow per season**, and while we’re just starting, the early signs point toward a potentially good year for snow lovers who can handle the snow dance of early winter. Seasonal total snowfall isn’t huge quite yet, but consistent storms in the coming weeks could rapidly improve the snowpack and open more terrain.

A heads-up for visitors: the mountain is still ramping up operations, meaning patience is a must. Lift lines might be short now with fewer lifts open, but terrain is limited. Dress in warm layers because those sub-zero temps can cut right through the fabric on windy days. Night skiing and snow parks remain closed as the resort focuses on base building and safety. Also, keep an eye on the mountain’s real-time updates for any sudden closures or weather changes.

In summary, Vail’s early December scene is a promising mix of fresh snow dustings, cold air, and limited but high-quality open terrain perfect for early season exploration. With snow depths slowly increasing and more lifts poised to open as winter progresses, it’s a great time to get your turns in before the crowds arrive, enjoy crisp mountain air, and soak in the anticipation of a powder-loaded season ahead. Whether you’re stalking soft corduroy on groomers or adventuring carefully off-piste, Vail is gearing up to deliver a legendary Colorado winter experience.

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

# Vail Snow Report: December 3, 2025

The early season at Vail is shaping up pretty lean right now, but don't lose hope just yet. As of today, the base is sitting at a modest 30 centimeters (about 18 inches) with 45 centimeters up top on the mountain. We're talking minimal coverage here, folks—only 9 out of 278 trails are currently open, which translates to roughly 4% of the terrain. On the lift front, you've got 6 out of 34 lifts spinning, so options are definitely limited but the core terrain is accessible for early-season enthusiasts.

Last night brought a small dusting to the valley, with a few centimeters of new snow falling at both the base and summit. The season started November 14, and conditions have been bolstered by artificial snowmaking as resorts work to build a playable base. The most recent natural snowfall hit on November 30, so it's been a few days of relative quiet on the precipitation front.

Today temperatures are hovering right around negative 9 to negative 15 degrees Celsius at altitude, creating that crisp, clean early-season feel that hardcore skiers actually love. The sky is mostly cloudy with occasional snow showers expected through the afternoon, particularly above the mid-mountain elevations. Wind is light at around 5 miles per hour, so you won't be battling any gnarly gusts.

Looking ahead at your five-day window, the forecast is actually pretty encouraging. Wednesday (today) should see around 5 centimeters of new snow both at the base and summit. Thursday looks relatively quiet, but then things get interesting. Saturday is showing serious potential with approximately 10 centimeters forecasted to fall at both elevations. Sunday and Monday round out the period with another 4 to 5 centimeters each. Temperatures are expected to stay cold and consistent, ranging from about negative 21 to negative 3 degrees Celsius at the summit, which means whatever snow falls should stick around nicely.

The snow quality right now is primarily artificial, which is par for the course in early December. Once that natural precipitation really starts falling—and the forecasts suggest it will—you'll see conditions improve dramatically. If you're thinking about making the trip, this weekend through early next week looks like the window to watch, especially after Saturday's expected dumpage. Just remember that with limited terrain open, you might want to time your visit for when more trails come online as conditions improve.

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

If you're aiming to carve some fresh turns in Vail, Colorado right now, the mountain is waking up to the early season vibe with a modest but promising snow base. At the summit, you’ll find about 45 cm (roughly 18 inches) of mostly artificial snow, while down at the base there’s a sturdy 30 cm (around 12 inches) of coverage. This base isn’t yet deep powder but enough to get the skis sliding smoothly and reward early risers eager to warm up on the slopes after a recent 7 cm dusting that fell on the morning of December 1st. The snow quality remains predominantly machine-made at the moment, setting a solid foundation until nature boosts the totals[1][2][14].

Lift-wise, Vail is currently spinning 6 out of its 34 lifts, making around 4% of its trails accessible — specifically 9 out of 278 kilometers of runs. So while it’s not a full mountain blowout yet, early birds have access to plenty of terrain for exploring the lower sections and beginning to get the stoke on[1][2][14]. Expect the full mountain to open progressively as natural snowfall adds to the base and temperatures stay low.

Speaking of temperatures, December mornings in Vail hover around a brisk -16°C (-1°F) at elevation, with daytime highs rising to about -9°C (16°F). The weather has been stable with mostly clear or bluebird skies—perfect for those epic crisp mountain views. Over the next five days, a mix of clear skies and light snow showers will continue, with light northwest to west winds around 5-10 mph and occasional gusts up to 20 mph putting a fresh polish on the slopes. Daytime highs will mostly stay just below freezing, dipping deeper at night, so bundle up for that mountain chill[3][4][7].

For the powder seekers itching for off-piste action, conditions remain cautious. The snowpack is still thin, mostly covered by artificial snow, so venturing off groomed runs requires vigilance and avalanche awareness. The official avalanche risk hasn’t been flagged as high but typical early season unpredictability calls for proper safety gear and local guidance. The terrain is best enjoyed on established pistes until natural snowfall significantly deepens the snowpack[4].

Vail’s snow season officially keeps its arms open from mid-November through April 19, promising many months of powder dreams ahead. So far this season, snowfall totals are building but modest compared to an average year where Vail typically nets around 350 inches (nearly 9 meters) of snow. This early snow foundation sets a promising stage for those epic powder days that Vail’s legendary reputation is built on[1][5][10].

Aside from the snow, Vail is buzzing with pre-season energy. Guests should note lift ticket sales are currently offering deals and that mobile passes and apps make lift access streamlined. Weather can swing into heavier snow or cooler blasts, so staying updated on live webcams and resort alerts is smart before hitting the slopes[7][10].

In sum, while Vail is still warming up in December 2025 with limited open terrain and a young snowpack, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy peaceful runs under brilliant blue skies on a solid artificial base with fresh snow gifts just landed. Early season enthusiasts who want to "think like a local" know to embrace these quieter days as the mountain preps for its full powder glory. Dress warmly, bring your stoke, and get ready to taste Vail’s world-class snow scene as it unfolds into one of Colorado’s favorite winter playgrounds.

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

If you’re dreaming of carving fresh tracks or just soaking up that mountain magic, Vail is buzzing with winter energy right now. The latest snow report shows the mountain is open and ready for action, with a solid 45 cm of snow up at the summit and a respectable 30 cm at the base. The snow quality is a mix of natural and artificial, so you’ll find plenty of coverage on the groomed runs, and the recent snowfall has helped fill in some of the gaps. Speaking of snow, the last fresh powder dropped on November 30, with just a dusting at the summit and base, but the cold temps are helping preserve what’s there.

Right now, about 9 kilometers of slopes are open, which is just a small slice of Vail’s legendary 234 km terrain. Don’t worry though, the valley run is open, so you can still enjoy a scenic cruise down to the village. As for lifts, 6 out of 34 are spinning, giving you access to the main areas and a taste of what’s to come as more terrain opens up. The weather is chilly but manageable, with daytime highs hovering around -2°C and nighttime lows dropping to -17°C. There’s plenty of sunshine, about 6 hours a day, so you’ll have some bluebird moments to enjoy the views and snap a few photos.

Looking ahead, the forecast for the next five days is a mix of sun and clouds, with a chance of light snow showers. Temperatures will stay cold, which is great for keeping the snow in good shape. The piste conditions are generally good, with most runs well-groomed and a few areas offering some fresh powder for those who like to explore. Off-piste, the snow is a bit thin in places, but the back bowls are starting to fill in, and the cold temps are helping to preserve the snowpack.

This season’s total snowfall is still building, but Vail’s average annual snowfall is around 239 inches, so you can expect plenty more powder to come. The ski season officially kicked off on November 15, and the resort is planning to stay open until April 19, 2026. For visitors, it’s a good idea to check the resort’s website or call the snow hotline for the latest updates, as conditions can change quickly. The fun park and halfpipe are currently closed, and night skiing isn’t available yet, but there’s still plenty of action on the mountain.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, Vail’s legendary terrain and reliable snow make it a top pick for December skiing. The early season might not have all the terrain open, but the combination of fresh snow, cold temps, and plenty of sunshine means you’re in for a memorable experience. So grab your gear, hit the slopes, and enjoy the magic of Vail in December.

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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

Ski Report for Vail, Colorado

Daily Ski Conditions for Vail, Colorado

If you’re ready to hit the slopes at Vail, Colorado, here’s the lowdown to get you skiing like a local right now. As of late November 2025, Vail’s base snow depth is about 30 cm (12 inches), with the summit holding a bit more, around 45 cm (18 inches). The snow quality is mainly artificial at this stage, since natural snowfall has been light recently, with the last measurable snow recorded around November 29. In the past 24 hours, about 6 cm (2.4 inches) of new snow dusted the mountain, helping freshen what’s on the ground, and in the last 48 hours, about the same amount has fallen, so the slopes have a fresh coat, though it’s still early season powder[1][5].

Currently, only 5 of 34 lifts are operational (about 15%), opening access to just 6 kilometers of the total 234 km of slopes (roughly 3%), meaning the mountain is just waking up for the season. The iconic Valley Run is still closed, so the terrain is limited mainly to early-season zones with machine-groomed pistes. Off-piste snow conditions haven’t fully developed yet, as natural snowpack remains thin, so venturing beyond groomers calls for caution until deeper powder arrives[1][5][8].

Weather-wise, the day temperatures hover around the mid-30s Fahrenheit (about 1-2°C) at lower elevations, with colder temps higher up, dipping to around -9°C to -16°C on the mountain. Winds are moderate (5-10 mph, gusts up to 20 mph), and skies as of today (Nov 30) are clearing up after a light snow shower early on, so expect some sunshine with crisp conditions. Over the next five days, the forecast predicts a handful of light snowfalls, typically under an inch, mostly on Sunday night and into next week, interspersed with clear skies and relatively mild highs in the 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (7-12°C) at the base during the day, cooling off at night. Freeze-thaw cycles are expected mid-mountain and above, so mornings will be firm and crisp, afternoons could soften slightly, which is classic early season behavior[1][2][4][7].

In terms of overall snowfall, Vail averages around 239 inches (over 600 cm) across the entire season, but with this being early season, so far the accumulation is modest. Since mid-November, only about 30-45 cm snow depth is recorded, mostly artificial, supplemented by light natural snowfalls. The ski season officially kicked off mid-November and runs through mid-April, so conditions will steadily improve as winter progresses[1][18].

Some additional tips for locals and visitors: Given the low percentage of open terrain and lifts, expect some areas to remain closed and limited ski runs, so check real-time updates daily before heading out to the mountain. The valley run closure means no full-area cruising yet, but the groomed early runs offer good shape for carving while the mountain builds up. Also, bring layered clothing as temps vary widely between valley bottoms and high elevations, and stay prepared for a mix of piste snow and occasional icy patches due to freeze-thaw patterns[1][5][16].

For anyone itching to snowboard or ski powder, patience pays — more substantial natural snowfall is forecast later in the season, and current snow conditions are better for carving groomers, building skills, and prepping gear for the epic runs to come. With Vail’s reliable snowmaking and early snowfall, the mountain is slowly waking up to another season of world-class skiing and riding. Whether fresh snow dusting or sunny, crisp days lie ahead, now is the perfect time to layer up, wax those skis, and get ready to enjoy one of Colorado’s premier playgrounds in its early winter state.

The best deals on gear https://amzn.to/49QUryF

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