Colorado Summit & Vail Valley
Data-driven analysis of 9 resorts — NWS forecast accuracy, storm rankings, and local knowledge, powered by SNOTEL ground truth.
The Headlines
Vail averaged 8.3"/storm-day — the region's top producer with 496" on the season.
The region's biggest drop: 22" at Vail on Jan 15, 2026.
NWS overpredicted snowfall at Crested Butte by 100% this season. Grade: F.
Aspen Mountain had the region's most accurate NWS forecast — grade A with only -75% error.
Resort Rankings
Sorted by calibrated season snowfall total. NWS grade reflects forecast accuracy.
| # | Resort | Season Total | Avg/Storm-Day | Best Storm | NWS Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | VailCO | 496" | 8.3"/day | 22" | A |
| 2 | Beaver CreekCO | 434" | 7.2"/day | 22" | A |
| 3 | Wolf CreekCO | 430" | 7.2"/day | 22" | A |
| 4 | SteamboatCO | 338" | 5.6"/day | 22" | F |
| 5 | TellurideCO | 309" | 5.2"/day | 22" | A |
| 6 | Aspen MountainCO | 300" | 5"/day | 22" | A |
| 7 | Aspen HighlandsCO | 300" | 5"/day | 22" | A |
| 8 | SnowmassCO | 300" | 5"/day | 22" | A |
| 9 | Crested ButteCO | 300" | 5"/day | 22" | F |
NWS Forecast Accuracy
How much did the National Weather Service overpredict snowfall vs. SNOTEL ground-truth measurements? Lower is better. This is the core StormDrop data advantage.
Storm Timeline
Monthly snowfall across the region — feast months vs. famine months.
What Locals Are Saying
Top community intel from TGR forum data. The best powder intel isn't in the forecast.
“High Alpine Terrain: Northwest winds create wind-buffed powder pockets; check high alpine at Breck as reference”
“Stone Creek: Often receives more snow than reported; reliable stash during storm cycles”
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Explore This Region
Tailored guide for Denver & Front Range Skiers →Don't Get Skunked Next Season
This season proved you can't trust the forecast alone. NWS overpredicted by up to 100% at Crested Butte. StormDrop tells you what will actually fall — and where to go when your home mountain isn't delivering.