Sun Valley Snow Conditions Overview
Sun Valley in Idaho, USA sits at 2,789m (9,151ft) elevation and averages 246cm of annual snowfall based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025). During the ski season, Sun Valley receives approximately 220cm of snow. The best month for powder is February, averaging 48.4cm of snowfall with a 25% powder probability. The highest chance of fresh powder (15cm+ in any given week) occurs in December and February at 27%.
- Annual Snowfall
- 246cm
- Elevation
- 2,789m
- Best Month
- February
- Powder Probability
- 27%
Snowfall data sourced from ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo Historical Weather API (2015-2025).
Check Sun Valley snow forecast for your dates
Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data
About Sun Valley
Sun Valley 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.
Central Idaho receives a mix of Pacific moisture and cold continental air, producing reliable snowfall with good powder quality. 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. Season-long totals generally land between 6 and 10 metres, translating to a robust mid-winter base well above 2 metres.
Best Time to Ski
The best time to ski at Sun Valley is December and February, with 44cm average snowfall and 27% powder probability. Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data from PowderDays. Season runs late November to mid-April. January and February offer the most reliable conditions. 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):
- Nov15%
- Dec27%
- Jan24%
- Feb25%
- Mar20%
- Apr3%
10-Year Snow History
| Month | Avg Snowfall (cm) | Record High | Record Low | Powder Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov | 24.5 | 48.9 | 6.6 | 15% |
| Dec | 44.0 | 71.5 | 11.4 | 27% |
| Jan | 40.5 | 83.7 | 21.8 | 24% |
| Feb | 48.4 | 139.9 | 6.5 | 25% |
| Mar | 43.2 | 106.4 | 13.2 | 20% |
| Apr | 19.0 | 30.9 | 9.8 | 3% |
What Makes It Special
Long, sweeping groomers and open bowls with impressive vertical on a relatively uncrowded mountain. A classic, understated American ski-town feel with historic roots dating back to the 1930s. Sun Valley pioneered the chairlift.
Sun Valley, Idaho installed the world's first chairlift in 1936, adapted from a banana-loading conveyor system designed by Union Pacific Railroad engineers. This innovation transformed skiing from a backcountry pursuit into a modern recreational sport.
Data Sources & Methodology
All snowfall statistics for Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley's coordinates (43.70, -114.35) and 2,789m 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.