AccuWeather long-range experts say a weak La Niña pattern could bring blockbuster snow totals to resorts across much of the West and the Rockies, but mountains in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic could struggle with mild stretches. Northern Vermont should be better.
AccuWeather Global Weather Center Ski mountains are getting an early-season boost with a bomb cyclone and atmospheric rivers unleashing feet of snow in the Northwest, as well as a storm bringing the first accumulating snowfall of the season to elevated parts of the Northeast.
AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok says a promising season is shaping up for skiers and snowboarders in much of the Northwest, Rockies, Midwest and northern New England, but it could be a challenging winter for mountains in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic.
“We're kick-starting the season just in time for the holidays,” said Pastelok. “Things are looking pretty good. We already had a couple of big systems come through the Northwest, and there will be more rounds of snow heading into December. This is a great start to the season for many ski mountains across the country.”
Best ski conditions expected in the West & Midwest
Recent snowfall has allowed a number of ski mountains in the Northwest and Rockies to open earlier than originally planned this month.
Pastelok says the weak La Niña and developing winter weather pattern will direct storms over this region on a regular basis throughout the season.
"Places like Colorado and Utah, and then across the Northwest, I think those are the best areas this winter,” said Pastelok.
AccuWeather long-range experts say the only mountains in the West that may struggle to have frequent opportunities for snow will be northern Arizona and the southern stretch of the Sierra Nevada in California.
Pastelok also forecasts good conditions for much of the Midwest but warns that there could be some speed bumps throughout the season.
"During the midpart of the season, I'm concerned that a lot of systems track too far south, and we don't get into that significant snow, but it may be cold enough to maintain the snow they already have,” he said.
Tough winter on tap for Northeast and mid-Atlantic mountains
Ski mountains could struggle with a lack of snowfall and long stretches of mild conditions this winter across much of the Northeast and mid-Atlantic.
Pastelok says this winter could be a repeat of last year’s challenging conditions.
"The mild weather will be dominant just like it was last winter,” said Pastelok.
AccuWeather long-range experts say there could be more opportunities for snow across the East compared to last winter, including the traditionally busy holiday ski window between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
Mild spells throughout the winter could cause the snow to melt on the slopes, which can refreeze overnight and create icy conditions.
Many mountains and resorts across the East are outfitted with snowmaking equipment, so artificial powder could play a crucial role again this season. These conditions could lead to increased operating costs with the demand for more grooming and more artificial snow.
“We expect some issues in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast this winter with temperatures climbing above freezing during the day melting snow, then a refreeze at night that creates icy conditions on the slopes. Any rain on snow could cause big problems,” Pastelok said. “Some mountains will likely spend more time and money making snow and grooming the slopes this winter.”
Pastelok says northern New England and western New York could be the exception this year, with a forecast for fair or good conditions.
Polar vortex could help extend the ski season
AccuWeather long-range experts say an increased chance of a late-season, widespread polar vortex could allow bitterly cold air across much of the country and help extend the ski season at many mountains this winter.
“It could be everywhere that gets affected if we see a late-season polar vortex,” Pastelok explained. "The Northeast and mid-Atlantic ski season could be saved late if this event occurs."
AccuWeather long-range experts say an uptick in opportunities for snow across parts of the East in February could also provide a late-season boost.
“Ski mountains love having the season extended into the spring, and that is a possibility,” Pastelok said.
Additional AccuWeather Resources:
Early snow, stormy winter could be boon for ski resorts across the US
Major elevation storm bringing snow and rain to Northeast, Appalachia
2nd bomb cyclone, atmospheric river in three days to blast US West Coast
What you need to know about the polar vortex
Winter forecast for the US in the 2024-25 season
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