Ski Resorts Struggle Amid Record Heat and Lack of Snow

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Ski resorts across the western United States are facing unprecedented challenges due to record-breaking heat and drastically low snowfall levels. Resorts like Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico have been forced to bulldoze the limited remaining snow onto ski runs just to stay open, while in Park City, Utah, snowfall has been around half of normal levels this winter.

Why it matters

The lack of snow at ski resorts is a troubling sign of the broader climate crisis impacting the American West. As temperatures rise and snowpack dwindles, the future of the ski industry in many regions is under threat, with major economic and recreational implications for local communities.

The details

With temperatures soaring and snowfall at historic lows, ski resort operators have had to take drastic measures to maintain any semblance of winter conditions. In Taos Ski Valley, crews have been bulldozing the scarce remaining snow onto the runs, while in Park City, the streets and sidewalks are visible through the sparse snow cover.

• The 2025-2026 winter season has seen the lowest snow levels in decades across the western United States.
• Park City, Utah has received only about half of its normal snowfall this year.