Alyeska Snowfall Data & Powder Probability

Alaska, USA

1,201m / 3,940ftNorth AmericaPeak: Dec – Mar

Alyeska Snow Conditions Overview

Alyeska in Alaska, USA sits at 1,201m (3,940ft) elevation and averages 973cm of annual snowfall based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025). During the ski season, Alyeska receives approximately 802cm of snow. The best month for powder is January, averaging 181.3cm of snowfall with a 69% powder probability. The highest chance of fresh powder (15cm+ in any given week) occurs in December and January at 70%.

Annual Snowfall
973cm
Elevation
1,201m
Best Month
January
Powder Probability
70%

Snowfall data sourced from ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo Historical Weather API (2015-2025).

Check Alyeska snow forecast for your dates

Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data

About Alyeska

Alyeska snowfall statistics based on 10 years of historical data. See average annual snowfall, best months to ski, and powder probability to help you plan your trip.

Snow & Weather Conditions

We use 10 years of historical data to help you plan — not a live snow report.

Alaska receives massive annual snowfall totals, often exceeding 15 metres. The maritime influence from the Gulf of Alaska delivers relentless storms throughout winter. What the resort lacks in raw altitude it compensates for with a favourable aspect, efficient snowmaking, and a geography that funnels moisture-laden air onto its slopes. The net effect is a surprisingly resilient winter surface. Season-long totals sit in the 3-6 metre window, supplemented by snowmaking to maintain a rideable surface throughout.

Best Time to Ski

The best time to ski at Alyeska is December and January, with 159cm average snowfall and 70% powder probability. Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data from PowderDays. Season runs from late November to mid-April. December through March bring the heaviest snowfall. PowderDays' historical tool lets you compare precipitation patterns and find the best travel windows.

Powder Probability by Month

Chance of 15cm+ fresh snow in any given week (10 years of data):

  • Nov63%
  • Dec70%
  • Jan69%
  • Feb59%
  • Mar50%
  • Apr48%

10-Year Snow History

Monthly average snowfall, record high and low, and powder probability for Alyeska based on 10 years of historical data
MonthAvg Snowfall (cm)Record HighRecord LowPowder Probability
Nov143.4219.437.563%
Dec159.0229.325.870%
Jan181.3347.350.869%
Feb114.3362.839.259%
Mar107.2275.031.150%
Apr96.3231.933.548%

What Makes It Special

Steep, glaciated terrain with incredible vertical, chutes, and backcountry access. Heli-skiing is a major draw. Remote, rugged, and authentic — Alaskan skiing attracts adventurers seeking big mountains and deep snow in a pristine wilderness setting.

Alaska's Chugach Mountains receive over 15 metres of annual snowfall and contain some of the steepest, most continuous ski descents on earth. The Thompson Pass area near Valdez holds the Alaskan 24-hour snowfall record of 160cm (62 inches), set in December 1955.

Alaska Department of Natural Resources / National Weather Service

Data Sources & Methodology

All snowfall statistics for Alyeska are based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025) from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, which provides ERA5 reanalysis data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Daily snowfall totals are queried at Alyeska's coordinates (60.97, -149.10) and 1,201m elevation, then aggregated into monthly averages, record highs/lows, and powder probability scores. Powder probability represents the chance of receiving 15cm or more of fresh snow in any given week during that month.

View printable snow report

Frequently Asked Questions About Alyeska

What is the average annual snowfall at Alyeska?
Annual snowfall at Alyeska typically falls in the 3-8 metres range, varying with each winter's weather patterns. Season-long totals sit in the 3-6 metre window, supplemented by snowmaking to maintain a rideable surface throughout. PowderDays' 10-year data set gives you a clear picture of snowfall consistency and peak weeks at Alyeska.
Which month has the most snow at Alyeska?
January and February are generally the best months to ski at Alyeska, as a steady cadence of frontal passages rebuilds the surface layer between outings, and chill night-time lows cement the base. Season runs from late November to mid-April. December through March bring the heaviest snowfall. PowderDays' precipitation charts reveal which weeks have historically delivered the most fresh snow.
What is the snow like at Alyeska?
Alaska receives massive annual snowfall totals, often exceeding 15 metres. The maritime influence from the Gulf of Alaska delivers relentless storms throughout winter. Thanks to an elevation of 1,201m (3,940ft), Alyeska experiences enough elevation to maintain a stable, skiable base layer from opening day to spring.
Is Alyeska suitable for novice skiers?
Alyeska caters to skiers of every standard, from first-timers to seasoned experts. Steep, glaciated terrain with incredible vertical, chutes, and backcountry access. Heli-skiing is a major draw. New skiers are well catered for with wide, low-gradient runs and on-mountain ski schools, while accomplished riders can seek out wind-buffed pillow lines, cliff bands, and high-alpine traverses.
How high is Alyeska?
Perched at 1,201m (3,940ft) in the mountains of Alaska, USA, Alyeska enjoys a favourable altitude. Despite sitting at a gentler altitude, smart snowmaking and a sheltered aspect keep conditions trustworthy throughout the season.