Colorado’s First Snowfall Of The Season: Here’s The Forecast

In Colorado, the first snowfall is more than just a weather event; it’s the signal that travel season is about to change gears. With landscapes that stretch from sweeping plains to peaks above 14,000 feet, the timing of that first snow depends on where you go. High mountain towns might see flakes as early as late September, while cities at lower elevations usually get their first dusting in October.

For travelers, that first snowfall marks the start of ski season, crisp mountain hikes, and the shift into Colorado’s winter adventures. Because conditions vary so much by elevation, you might encounter snow in one region weeks before another, making the hunt for Colorado’s first flakes part of the journey itself.

1. Historical Averages & Timing

In Denver, the average date of the first measurable snowfall is October 18, based on National Weather Service climate records. This date reflects long-term data, though the actual arrival can range from as early as September to as late as November. Colorado Springs averages its first measurable snow on October 24, while Boulder’s climate records also suggest mid-to-late October as the typical window.

These averages highlight how the Front Range often sees its first taste of winter by the middle of fall. Variability remains high, with some years bringing snowstorms well ahead of schedule. Regardless of timing, the first snow signals the start of a season that is central to Colorado’s identity.

2. Recent Early Snow Events

Colorado’s mountains are often the first to welcome snow, with higher elevations seeing accumulation weeks before cities on the plains. In September 2025, Glendevey in northern Colorado reported 8.8 inches of snow in one of the first notable events of the season. Such early mountain snowfalls are not unusual and frequently serve as a reminder of Colorado’s unpredictable climate.

Ski resorts and mountain towns watch these events closely, as they hint at the coming winter season. Early snow in the high country contrasts with dry or mild conditions in Denver and other urban areas. These patterns illustrate how elevation drives major differences in when snow arrives.

3. Regional And Elevation Variations

Snowfall in Colorado depends heavily on geography. Mountain regions above 9,000 feet can see snow in September, while lower-elevation cities often wait until late October or November. Western Colorado, shaped by orographic lift from the Rockies, typically records heavier snow totals than the eastern plains. The contrast between the snowy mountains and relatively dry plains makes Colorado winters unique.

Towns such as West Yellowstone, across the state line in Montana, hold snow longer, but Colorado’s mountain towns also enjoy extended snow cover. Visitors traveling across the state quickly notice how dramatically snowfall changes from region to region. These differences make Colorado both challenging and rewarding for winter weather watchers.

4. Forecasting Challenges & Indicators

Predicting Colorado’s first snowfall is notoriously difficult. Meteorologists rely on seasonal climate patterns, cold fronts, and storm tracks to estimate when snow will fall. Factors such as El Niño or La Niña can influence timing and intensity, but exact dates are nearly impossible to pinpoint. For example, while Denver’s average first snowfall is October 18, it has occurred in early September in some years and as late as mid-November in others.

This unpredictability keeps residents alert and adds excitement to fall weather forecasts. Local news outlets often make annual “first snow” predictions, a tradition that underscores how closely this event is followed. Forecasting is part science and part anticipation, especially in a state with such diverse terrain.

5. What Visitors & Residents Should Watch For

Residents of Colorado prepare for the first snow by checking forecasts, changing to winter tires, and staying ready for abrupt weather changes. Visitors planning trips in autumn should pay close attention to elevation-specific forecasts, as mountain areas can be snowy while lower regions remain dry. Sudden cold fronts often bring snow to passes and high terrain, sometimes making travel more hazardous.

Chains or traction devices may be required on mountain roads, even in early-season storms. Preparing ahead ensures a safe and enjoyable experience, whether skiing, hiking, or simply sightseeing. Both locals and newcomers learn quickly that Colorado’s first snow is beautiful but also demands respect.