Best Weather Apps for
Skiers & Snowboarders
Never miss a powder day again. What features matter when choosing a weather app for skiing and snowboarding?
Updated for the 2024-2025 ski season
Why Skiers Need Specialized Weather Tools
Generic weather apps might tell you it will snow tomorrow, but skiers need more: How much accumulation? When will it start? What will conditions be like at the summit vs the base? Will lifts be spinning or wind-held?
The right skiing weather app helps you score powder days, avoid icy conditions, and plan your mountain time around the best weather windows. It can mean the difference between fighting crowds on a mediocre day and having fresh tracks all to yourself.
Must-Have Features for Skiers
Hourly Snow Accumulation Forecasts
Know exactly when snow will fall and how much to plan your powder day perfectly.
Powder Day Alerts
Get notified when significant snowfall is predicted so you can call in sick before everyone else.
Summit vs Base Conditions
Mountain weather varies dramatically with elevation. Know conditions at different levels.
Wind Speed and Direction
High winds can close lifts and affect snow quality. Wind-loaded aspects often have the best powder.
Visibility Forecasts
Flat light and fog can make skiing dangerous. Plan for terrain you can see.
Temperature at Elevation
Dress appropriately and know if snow will be light powder or heavy cement.
Storm Timing
Know if snow will fall overnight (fresh groomers) or during the day (storm skiing).
Multi-Day Forecasts
Plan weekend trips and vacation days around the best snow windows.
Nice-to-Have Features
Resort-Specific Forecasts
Forecasts tailored to specific ski areas and their microclimates.
Avalanche Conditions
Critical for backcountry skiing and sidecountry access.
Snow Quality Predictions
Powder vs packed powder vs spring conditions.
Mobile Access
Check forecasts from the lodge or lift line.
Historical Snow Data
Track season totals and compare to averages.
WeatherQuick Powder Alerts
Get notified when significant snowfall is predicted. Hourly accumulation forecasts, storm tracking, and mountain conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much snow is needed for a powder day?
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Most skiers consider 6+ inches of fresh snow a powder day. However, 4+ inches overnight on groomed runs can still provide excellent soft conditions. The quality of snow (light vs heavy) matters as much as quantity.
What temperature makes the best ski conditions?
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For light, fluffy powder, temperatures in the teens to mid-20s F (-10 to -4 C) are ideal. Warmer snow (28-32 F) is heavier and packs down faster. Very cold temps (below 0 F) can make snow squeaky and slow.
How does wind affect ski conditions?
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Wind can load powder onto certain slopes (creating deep stashes) while stripping others to hardpack. Sustained winds over 25-30 mph often close upper lifts. Light winds during snowfall produce more even coverage.
When is the best time to ski after a storm?
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First tracks in the morning offer the best powder. However, if snow continues through the day, waiting allows for more accumulation. Storm skiing during active snowfall can be excellent with consistent refreshing.
What should I look for in a backcountry skiing weather app?
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Backcountry skiers need detailed wind loading information, temperature trends (for avalanche assessment), precipitation intensity, and extended forecasts. Integration with avalanche center bulletins is valuable.