Montana Snowpack Levels: Where Are We Sitting For 2025?

Snowpack may not be the hottest topic, but it’s one that matters—a lot. It doesn’t just impact Montana; it plays a crucial role in water supply for surrounding regions as well. And with the first day of spring arriving tomorrow (March 20), it's the perfect time to check in on how Montana’s snowfall has shaped up this year.

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Why Does Snowpack Matter?

Simply put, snow is water, and water is life. The snow that builds up in Montana’s mountains each winter acts as a natural reservoir, gradually melting into the ecosystems, agriculture, and communities far beyond our borders. Our snowmelt feeds rivers that flow to both the Pacific and Atlantic, making Montana home to the Crown of the Continent—where the headwaters of some of America’s most important rivers, including the Columbia and Missouri-Mississippi. In other words, when it comes to bringing water to the rest of the country, Montana is kind of a big deal.

Where Are Montana's Snowpack Levels Currently?

After what felt like a slow start to winter, we sure got hit hard in January and February. With those couple of big storms in Western Montana it finally put us in a good spot for the overall snow levels.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, most basins are seeing snowpack amounts between 80% and 90%.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of snowpack levels in other areas:

• St. Mary 74%
• Marias 75%
• Upper Clark Fork 89%
• Upper Missouri 89%
• Smith River Basin 111%
• Gallatin 107%

Everything is in good standing and even higher than last year, which is fantastic news. Considering that 60-70% of our water supply comes from the snowmelt, this is a great way to head into Spring!

Credit: NBCMontana