As winter winds down across the Western United States, skiers and snowboarders are enjoying the snowfall that blanketed the mountains this season. This year has been a great one for snow accumulation, and there are plenty of reasons to hit the slopes.

In the Rocky Mountains, snowfall has been particularly abundant. Ski resorts in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming have reported above-average snowfall, with some areas seeing record accumulations of up to 200% of their average snowpack. Many of my favorite alpine locations here in Utah are reporting over 100 inches of snow! 

Snowpack Dashboard—Keep Tabs on Accumulation at Your Favorite Western US Spots 

It’s not just the Rocky Mountains seeing plenty of snow this year. California and Nevada have also experienced record-breaking snowfall, with some areas of the Sierra Nevada mountains reporting over 250 inches. Even the Pacific Northwest, which typically experiences rainy winters, has experienced significant snowfall. Areas near Mount Saint Helens are reporting over 150 inches of snowpack.  

The Many Upsides of Snow—from Recreational to Environmental 

Snow accumulation isn’t just good news for skiers and snowboarders—it’s also great news for the environment. Snowfall is critical for recharging rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs, which supply water for agriculture, wildlife, drinking, and, of course, summer recreation.  

So, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or someone who enjoys the beauty of a snow-covered landscape, there are plenty of reasons to be excited about this year’s snow accumulation in the Western US. With ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and a positive impact on the environment, there’s never been a better time to hit the slopes and enjoy the winter wonderland that the West has to offer.  

Don’t forget to check out the conditions at your favorite Western US locations using the Domo snowpack dashboard! (Data courtesy of the National Water and Climate Center)