Denver’s first snowfall marks a pivotal seasonal transition for residents and visitors alike. This annual milestone, defined as measurable snow of at least 0.1 inch, signals the end of fall and arrival of winter weather patterns in the Mile High City.
Understanding when snow typically arrives helps everyone prepare properly for changing road conditions, temperature drops, and the breathtaking transformation of the Colorado landscape.
1. Mid-October Marks The Average First Snow Date
The NWS notes that October 18 is the statistical average date for Denver’s first measurable snowfall. While some years meet this benchmark, others bring snow much earlier or significantly later. This wide variation is part of what makes Denver’s climate unique.
Longtime residents often look to mid-October as a practical time to switch to snow tires and prepare homes and gardens for the season ahead.
2. Record-Breaking Snow Arrivals
Denver’s snow timing can be wildly unpredictable! Denver’s earliest recorded measurable snowfall occurred on September 3, 1961, when 4.2 inches fell, an unusually early end to summer. At the other extreme, the latest first measurable snowfall was logged on December 10, 2021, setting a new record for the city…