Vail Ski ResortWeather & Snow Report
Vail Ski Resort in Colorado sits at an elevation of 11,570 feet and receives an average of 148 inches of snow annually across 90 snow days. The area also enjoys approximately 241 sunny days per year. The ski season runs November - April, with the best conditions typically found in January and February and March.
Monthly Weather Charts
Monthly Snowfall (inches)
Temperature Range (°F)
Monthly Breakdown
| Month | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Snowfall (in) | Snow Days | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 28° | 4° | 28" | 16 | 17 |
| February | 31° | 6° | 24" | 14 | 16 |
| March | 38° | 13° | 26" | 15 | 18 |
| April | 46° | 22° | 14" | 10 | 18 |
| May | 56° | 31° | 4" | 3 | 20 |
| June | 67° | 38° | -- | -- | 24 |
| July | 74° | 44° | -- | -- | 25 |
| August | 72° | 43° | -- | -- | 24 |
| September | 64° | 35° | 1" | 1 | 23 |
| October | 51° | 24° | 7" | 5 | 21 |
| November | 37° | 13° | 18" | 11 | 18 |
| December | 28° | 4° | 26" | 15 | 17 |
Best Time to Ski at Vail Ski Resort
Based on snowfall data, the best months to ski at Vail Ski Resort are January and February and March. During this period, the resort averages 23 inches of snowfall per month.
January is typically the snowiest month, with an average of 28 inches of snowfall and 16 snow days. Temperatures during peak season range from a high of 28°F to a low of 4°F.
For the best combination of snow quality and manageable crowds, consider visiting in January or February on weekdays. March often brings spring skiing conditions with warmer temperatures and longer days, making it ideal for those who prefer milder weather.
Packing Tips by Season
Early Season (Nov-Dec)
- Heavy insulated ski jacket
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Insulated ski pants
- Warm ski gloves or mittens
- Balaclava or neck gaiter
- Goggles with low-light lens
- Hand and toe warmers
Peak Season (Jan-Feb)
- Warmest ski jacket available
- Multiple base layer options
- Midlayer fleece or down
- Waterproof ski pants
- Insulated boots
- Helmet with ear coverage
- SPF 50+ sunscreen (high altitude)
Spring Skiing (Mar-Apr)
- Lighter shell jacket
- Breathable base layers
- Lighter ski pants
- Thinner gloves or spring gloves
- High-SPF sunscreen (essential)
- Goggles with high-light lens
- T-shirt for warm afternoon runs