Big Sky Snow Conditions Overview
Big Sky in Montana, USA sits at 3,403m (11,165ft) elevation and averages 425cm of annual snowfall based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025). During the ski season, Big Sky receives approximately 292cm of snow. The best month for powder is April, averaging 66.4cm of snowfall with a 50% powder probability. The highest chance of fresh powder (15cm+ in any given week) occurs in April at 50%.
- Annual Snowfall
- 425cm
- Elevation
- 3,403m
- Best Month
- April
- Powder Probability
- 50%
Snowfall data sourced from ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo Historical Weather API (2015-2025).
Check Big Sky snow forecast for your dates
Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data
About Big Sky
Big Sky 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.
Montana receives consistent, cold, and dry snowfall throughout winter. Its northern latitude keeps temperatures low, preserving powder quality between storms. The high elevation ensures a cold, consistent climate that favours natural snow preservation. Storms frequently deliver generous totals, and the altitude keeps the snowpack dense and skiable throughout the core winter months. Typical annual snowfall ranges from 6-10 metres, with a mid-season base depth often surpassing 2 metres.
Best Time to Ski
The best time to ski at Big Sky is April, with 66.4cm average snowfall and 50% powder probability. Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data from PowderDays. The season runs from late November to mid-April, with January and February bringing the coldest, driest snow. Browse PowderDays' decade-spanning snow statistics to pinpoint the weeks with the heaviest accumulations.
Powder Probability by Month
Chance of 15cm+ fresh snow in any given week (10 years of data):
- Nov19%
- Dec16%
- Jan16%
- Feb29%
- Mar30%
- Apr50%
10-Year Snow History
| Month | Avg Snowfall (cm) | Record High | Record Low | Powder Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov | 42.6 | 84.7 | 18.7 | 19% |
| Dec | 41.7 | 74.8 | 24.8 | 16% |
| Jan | 37.3 | 56.1 | 17.8 | 16% |
| Feb | 51.4 | 69.7 | 21.1 | 29% |
| Mar | 52.1 | 66.5 | 30.4 | 30% |
| Apr | 66.4 | 108.4 | 23.9 | 50% |
What Makes It Special
Massive ski areas with exceptional vertical drop, wide-open bowls, and abundant tree skiing. Big Sky country offers uncrowded slopes, genuine Western hospitality, and a relaxed, unpretentious ski culture.
Big Sky Resort offers 2,353 hectares (5,800 acres) of skiable terrain and 1,330 metres (4,350 feet) of vertical drop, making it one of the largest ski resorts in North America. Montana's "cold smoke" powder — ultra-dry snow with less than 5% water content — is prized by expert skiers.
Data Sources & Methodology
All snowfall statistics for Big Sky 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 Big Sky's coordinates (45.29, -111.40) and 3,403m 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.