Multiple ski resorts passed 700 inches of snow in the record season that was Winter '22/'23, but there's only one resort to hit the mark this season- Alyeska Resort, Alaska.
As Alaska's biggest ski resort, Alyeska is known for deep and consistent snowfall at the summit of the Glacier Bowl Express (GBX). As of Monday, April 8th, 2024, Alyeska has recorded a whopping 706 inches of snow.
Alta Ski Area, UT regularly rivals Alyeska to claim the most snow amongst US ski resorts in a given season. While Alta blew Alyeska out of the water last season with 900+ inches, it appears that Alyeska will take the crown this year (barring a flurry of spring storms at Alta).
As of Monday, April 8th, Alta is sitting at 612 inches on the season, nearly 100 inches behind Alyeska.
To really drive the point home, Alyeska averages an unfathomable 650 inches (54 feet) of snow each season. In a sense, 700 inches on the year is nothing more than a 'slightly above-average' season for the Alyeska faithful. Wild, I know.
The one caveat to Alyeska's absurd snowfall totals is how dramatically elevation plays a role at the resort. Nearly every resort across the world averages more snow at their summit compared to their base, but the difference is amplified at Alyeska due to its coastal disposition.
Similar to Whistler Blackcomb, it's not uncommon for rain or heavy wet snow to fall at Alyeska's base while blower powder piles up at the summit.
Alyeska no longer reports daily snowfall totals for varying elevations, but the proof is in the base-depth pudding, so to say. For example, Alyeska is reporting a 153 inch base depth at the summit and just 46 inches at the base of the resort.
In addition, the resort reports an average of 213 inches at the base while more than 650 inches falls at the summit.
That's not to say that it can't dump snow from top-to-bottom at Alyeska, but the wet weather is something to consider for Ikon Pass holders when planning a future ski trip.
Alyeska's projected closing date is Sunday, April 28th, 2024.
Watch out Alyeska, I'm coming for you next season. You're about to host a guy who can't stop smiling and pinching himself because he's actually skiing in Alaska. Hope you're prepared...!
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