How to Read the Snowbird Snow Report
Your expert guide to decoding the Snowbird snow report. Learn what the numbers mean, how to use live data and mountain cams, and find the best powder in Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Before you head up Little Cottonwood Canyon, your first stop should be the daily Snowbird snow report. This is your ground-truth snapshot of what's happening on the mountain right now—from new snow totals to which lifts are open. Understanding this data is the key to planning a great day and knowing whether it's worth battling canyon traffic.
What is in the Snowbird Snow Report?
A quick scan of the report tells you whether you're in for a powder day or a fast groomer session. Getting a handle on these key data points is the first step to making the most of your time on the hill. Remember, road conditions are just as important; always check our complete guide to Little Cottonwood Canyon road conditions before you leave.
Key Metrics to Understand
When you pull up Snowbird's report, you'll see a few key numbers. This table breaks down what each metric means for your ski day.
| Metric | What It Tells You | Ideal Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| New Snow (24hr) | The amount of fresh snow that has fallen in the last day. | 6+ inches means it's a legit powder day. |
| Base Depth | The total settled snow depth at mid-mountain or the summit. | 60+ inches ensures most terrain is open and well-covered. |
| Surface Conditions | Describes the snow quality (e.g., Powder, Packed, Groomed). | "Powder" for fresh tracks; "Groomed" for fast carving. |
| Open Lifts/Terrain | The number of lifts and acres currently accessible to skiers. | Over 90% indicates you've got full access to the mountain. |
How to Use the Snowbird Snow Report
To find the best snow, you need to read the raw data like a local. Snowbird's official mountain report gives you a direct feed of conditions on the ground, separating numbers by elevation. The summit, sitting at 11,000 feet, almost always holds a deeper, colder snowpack, which usually means lighter snow on upper-mountain terrain.
Interpreting the Live Data
When you’re looking at the full snow report for Snowbird, Utah, a few specific numbers tell the real story.
- 12, 24, & 72-Hour Snowfall: This tracks recent accumulation. A big 72-hour total with a small 12-hour number means powder is getting tracked out. Fresh snow in the last 12 hours signals untracked stashes are still waiting.
- Wind Speed and Direction: Wind strips snow from exposed ridges and loads it into sheltered bowls. Checking wind data helps you find deep, wind-loaded pockets in spots like Mineral Basin.
- Mountain Cams: The snow report gives you numbers, but webcams show you reality. Cross-reference the data with visuals to confirm conditions. For a complete view of the area, check out the live cameras in Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Local Tip: Always pair the data with the live mountain cams. If the report claims 6 inches of fresh snow but the Hidden Peak cam shows wind-scoured terrain, you know to hunt for sheltered, lower-elevation runs instead.
When is the Best Time to Ski at Snowbird?
While the daily report is for today, historical data helps you plan a trip weeks or months out. Snowbird's legendary snowfall is a product of its location in Little Cottonwood Canyon and the "lake effect" from the Great Salt Lake. This combination delivers consistently light, dry powder all season.
Understanding Snowfall Patterns
An "average" season at Snowbird brings a staggering 427 inches of snow. Some years are legendary, like the 2022-2023 season, which saw a record-shattering 800+ inches. You can watch the resort celebrate this historic snowfall to see what a monumental season looks like. If you want to nerd out on the science, our Wasatch snow forecast guide breaks it down.
Finding the Sweet Spot in the Season
- December – Early January: Great for early-season storms as the base fills in.
- Late January – February: The heart of the season, with consistent storms and a deep snowpack.
- March – April: March can bring massive "Miracle March" storms or sunny spring skiing.
Historically, the resort sees significant snowfall on 2.8 to 3.4 days each month between December and March. You can dig deeper into Snowbird's climate and history on Wikipedia. Using these historical odds increases your chances of scoring a "Bluebird Powder Day"—a perfect, sunny day right after a big storm.
Actionable Local Tips
Turn the raw data from the snow report for Snowbird Utah into a smart plan.
- Follow the Wind: If the report shows strong westerly winds, the snow is getting blown over the ridge into Mineral Basin. Head there first for deep, sheltered powder.
- Time the Rope Drop: On a big powder day, upper-mountain terrain often opens later after avalanche control. Time your arrival to catch that rope drop for untouched tracks.
- Plan Your Drive: Your ski day starts with the drive. On a powder day, traction laws will likely be in effect (4WD/AWD with snow tires or chains). The road can close for avalanche control with no warning, so get up the canyon early and always check the road status.
Snowbird Snow Report FAQ
How accurate is the Snowbird snow report?
It's very accurate. Snowbird uses automated SNOTEL data and manual checks from ski patrol. However, conditions vary across 2,500 acres, so the official number from the summit might not match what you find in a sheltered glade. Always pair the report with live mountain cams for the most complete picture.
What do locals consider a true powder day?
For most locals, it takes at least 6-8 inches of fresh, light-density snow overnight to earn the title. The holy grail is a "right-side-up" storm, where warmer, denser snow falls first and is topped by cold, light powder.
Is all new snow considered "powder"?
No. "Powder" is reserved for light, dry, low-density snow. High winds or warmer temperatures can create "wind-buff," "packed powder," or heavy "Sierra cement." The snow report for Snowbird Utah is good about specifying surface conditions, so pay attention to those descriptions to understand the snow's true quality.