Wondering, DOES MEXICO HAVE SNOW?
Then you’re in the right place, as this article is all about Mexico snow and where you can find it. So, Does it ever snow in Mexico? It does, but only in a few places.
I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018 and spent many winters chasing the elusive Mexico snowfall. I’ve even visited the only ski resort in Mexico (more on that to come).
While snow in Mexico is uncommon (you won’t find snow in the Mexico Riviera Maya, for example), it does happen — and you’re about to discover where in this article.
Does it snow in Mexico?
It does snow in Mexico, though it’s rare and occurs mainly in the country’s higher elevations and northern regions.
Snow is most commonly seen in mountainous areas with sufficient elevation to support the colder temperatures necessary for snowfall.
So, yes it does snow in Mexico — but you’ll most likely only see snow in Mexico mountains at high elevations.
Which part of Mexico does it snow?
Known more for its tropical beaches, the words “snow Mexico” aren’t usually placed next to one another, but you can see snow in Mexico in several regions:
Mountain ranges such as the Sierra Madre Occidental, Sierra Madre Oriental, and the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt also experience occasional snowfalls.
Specific mountain peaks and high-altitude areas, such as Pico de Orizaba, Nevado de Toluca, and Sierra Negra, are known to receive snowfall in winter.
The 17 Best Places to See Snow in Mexico
1. Nevado de Toluca, Estado de México
Nevado de Toluca, or Xinantécatl, is a dormant volcano located near Toluca, Mexico. It sits approximately 50 miles (80 km) west of Mexico City.
This volcano is known for its large crater that houses two beautiful lakes, Laguna del Sol (Sun Lagoon) and Laguna de la Luna (Moon Lagoon).
Nevado de Toluca, the fourth-highest peak in Mexico at 15,385 feet above sea level (4,690 meters), is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts.
To go, book this Nevado de Toluca tour with an experienced local guide who will take you to the stunning views and help with the challenges this hike brings.
It also has significant cultural importance, with numerous pre-Hispanic archaeological sites found around the lakes, where ancient rituals were performed.
The best time to see snow here is from November to March, when temperatures can range from 39°F to 57°F (4°C to 14°C).
Snowfall can vary, but when it does snow, it transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland.
🥾 Hiking Nevado de Toluca Volcano in Mexico
The easiest option, and the one I recommend, is booking one of these Nevado de Toluca hiking tours because this is not an easy hike by any means.
Hikers should be prepared for cold weather and possibly slippery conditions, and need to have a route in mind.
Essential tips for visiting include bringing appropriate hiking gear, wearing thermal layers for the cold, and ensuring you have enough water and snacks.
The altitude can be challenging, so it’s important to acclimatize and pace yourself during the hike — and consider these altitude sickness pills.
2. Parque Nacional Izta-Popo, Puebla and Estado de México
Mexico’s Izta-Popo National Park, nestled between Puebla and México State, is famous for its two towering volcanoes — Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl.
Established in 1935, this park is one of the oldest Mexico national parks, and one of its most ecologically diverse with pine forests, grasslands, and alpine areas.
On a fun note, be on the lookout for the volcano rabbit. One of the coolest animals in Mexico, they live on only a few volcanoes in central Mexico.
Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with 161 bird species recorded.
🏔️ Activities in Izta-Popo Volcano Park
The park offers various hiking trails that cater to different levels of physical fitness.
There are easy mid-altitude walks, and challenging climbs like the Iztaccíhuatl ascent, which can be quite hard due to the high altitude and steep slopes.
The best time to visit its snowy landscapes is between November and January.
If you want to climb in winter, do yourself a favor and book this well-rated tour that provides crampons and an ice ax for alpine climbs.
While the park’s high altitude ensures cooler conditions year-round, your chances of snow increase when the weather is colder.
For those planning a visit on your own, I recommend you check the volcanic activity, especially for Popocatépetl, as it can influence park accessibility.
The park’s main access point, Paso de Cortes, offers basic amenities and is the starting point for exploring the area.
3. Sierra de Arteaga, Coahuila
Sierra de Arteaga, often referred to as the Swiss Alps of Mexico, is located in the state of Coahuila, Mexico.
This region is celebrated for its stunning alpine landscapes, and is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts who want to go skiing in Mexico.
Located in the Sierra de Arteaga, you’ll find Bosques de Monterreal — Mexico’s only ski resort.
The best time to visit Sierra de Arteaga? In December and January when the area experiences its coldest temperatures that drop to about 45°F (8°C).
The resort area is surrounded by majestic pine forests, enhancing the beauty of its snowy vistas.
⛷️ Activities in Sierra de Arteaga
In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy other activities like golf at the highest altitude golf course in Mexico, tennis, basketball, horseback riding and ATV tours.
If you’re interested in trekking, nearby El Cielo mountain offers routes classified as moderate, reaching altitudes up to 10,170 feet (3,100 meters).
4. Monterreal, Coahuila
Wondering, Is there skiing in Mexico? Monterreal in Coahuila is a unique destination that’s often called the Alps of Mexico, and yes, you can ski there.
There’s an artificial ski slope with mostly fake snow, and the slopes are perfect for beginners and experienced skiers, snowboarding, and sledding during winter.
The region can experience natural snowfall during the winter months, adding to its appeal as a winter sports destination.
Located in the Sierra de Arteaga, Monterreal is surrounded by beautiful forests and offers various outdoor activities such as golfing, tennis, and mountain biking.
5. Barranca del Cobre, Chihuahua
Barranca del Cobre (Copper Canyon in English) is a network of canyons in Chihuahua, Mexico, characterized by steep canyon walls colored with a greenish hue of copper.
It offers a landscape more extensive and deeper than the Grand Canyon — and has some of the largest waterfalls in Mexico.
The area is accessible via the El Chepe Train, which travels from Chihuahua state to the city of Los Mochis near the Pacific coast in Sinaloa state.
The train offers spectacular views and stops at key points such as Creel, a popular gateway for exploring the region.
🏔️ Best time to go to Copper Canyon
The best months for visiting to see snow are from December to March, when the weather is cold enough.
Besides hiking, adventurers can enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, and zip-lining across the dramatic scenery.
The area is also rich in biodiversity, offering wildlife spotting and bird watching opportunities.
With snowfall, this high-altitude town becomes a picturesque winter destination, highlighting the beauty of the surrounding Copper Canyon area.
Average winter temperatures range from highs around 57°F (13.9°C) to nighttime lows dropping to around 30°F (-1°C), occasionally dipping below 22°F (-5.5°C) .
Creel is a popular gateway for exploring the expansive and rugged terrains of the Copper Canyon in Mexico.
It offers activities such as hiking and cultural visits to the indigenous Tarahumara communities (including the Rarámuri barefoot runners).
While small, the town has local crafts, museums, and natural sites like Valle de los Hongos (Valley of the Mushrooms) and Lago Arareko Lake.
7. La Malinche, Tlaxcala and Puebla
La Malinche, a dormant volcano on the border between Tlaxcala and Puebla states, is a famous hiking and climbing destination in Mexico.
Standing at more than 14,600 feet (4,461 m), it offers challenging trails that are especially popular during the snow season from December to February.
The mountain’s high elevation results in cooler temperatures, frequently below freezing — so come prepared in thermal layers for the cold.
The park surrounding La Malinche is rich in biodiversity, with dense forests and wildlife, providing an incredible setting for outdoor activities.
Due to the altitude, hiking here can be quite demanding. It’s recommended visitors acclimate appropriately, and prepare for significant temperature variations.
8. Parque Nacional Pico de Orizaba, Puebla and Veracruz
This is not just any mountain — Pico de Orizaba is the tallest peak in Mexico, and the third highest peak in North America.
Parque Nacional Pico de Orizaba is centered around Citlaltépetl, also known as Pico de Orizaba.
Located on the border between Puebla and Veracruz states, this park is famous for its volcano that has glaciers and a year-round snow-capped summit.
The volcano rises approximately 18,491 feet above sea level (5,636 m), making it the perfect spot for advanced mountaineering in Mexico.
🥾 Hiking in Pico de Orizaba
Climbing Pico de Orizaba is a popular activity, attracting both beginner and experienced mountaineers → You can book your Pico de Orizaba tour here.
9. Volcán de Colima, Colima and Jalisco
Volcán de Colima, part of the Colima Volcanic Complex, is another one of the best places in Mexico to see snow, particularly at higher altitudes during winter.
The lower slopes of Volcán de Colima are warmer and lush with vegetation, and a tropical feel.
The summit, reaching about 13,386 feet (4,080 meters), often receives a blanket of snow that creates a dramatic shift in scenery.
The area is popular for hiking and bird watching, and provides a unique environment where tropical and alpine conditions merge.
10. Cerro del Ajusco, Mexico City
Located about 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) from Mexico City, Cerro del Ajusco is a peak in the Ajusco mountain range that stands at 12,894-feet-tall (3,930 m).
This is one of the most accessible spots for snow in the region, and attracts visitors looking for snow activities close to the country’s capital.
During the winter months from December to February, the higher elevations of Ajusco can experience snowfall.
It also offers hiking and mountain biking, as well as spectacular panoramic views of Mexico City (Ciudad de México) and the surrounding volcanic belt.
11. Cumbres de Majalca, Chihuahua
Cumbres de Majalca National Park, located north of Chihuahua City, features unique rock formations and extensive pine forests.
This lesser-known park offers a quiet retreat for nature lovers who want to go hiking, and see snow falls in winter, particularly from December through February.
The park’s elevation provides scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities, making it a great destination for those looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots.
12. Mexiquillo, Durango
Mexiquillo is an incredible spot in the Sierra Madre range of Durango, known for its landscapes and regular snowfall during the winter months.
The best time to visit for snow enthusiasts is between December and February when this area offers activities like snow tubing and hiking through snow-covered trails.
The natural setting is enhanced by stunning waterfalls and lush forests, which become especially magical in the snow.
13. Nevado de Colima, Jalisco
Nevado de Colima, located in Jalisco state, is part of the Volcán de Colima volcanic complex.
Due to its high altitude, it is one of the few places in Mexico where snow is seen regularly.
The park around Nevado de Colima is ideal for hiking and nature observation, offering a cooler refuge with its alpine environment.
Snowfall occurs mainly during the winter, from December to March when the landscape transforms into a scenic winter wonderland.
14. Parque Nacional Lagunas de Zempoala, Morelos and Mexico State
Known for its seven beautiful lakes, Parque Nacional Lagunas de Zempoala is located between Morelos state and the State of Mexico (Estado de México).
This park is also known for its mountainous landscape. The mountains occasionally receive snow in the colder months, particularly at the higher elevations.
The environment is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation. When snow falls, it adds a rare beauty to the already scenic vistas.
15. La Marquesa, Mexico City and Mexico State
La Marquesa, officially known as Parque Nacional Insurgente Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, is a popular getaway between Mexico City and the State of Mexico.
If you’re looking for snow in Mexico City, but don’t want to climb any mountains to see it, La Marquesa is the perfect place (in winter, of course).
One of the best day trips from Mexico City to get out into nature, it’s a favorite spot for city dwellers looking to experience snow during winter.
During snowy days, La Marquesa transforms into a picturesque landscape ideal for family outings with tubing, snowball fights and other snow play.
In warmer months, the park also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, ATV rides, hiking, and trout fishing.
16. Monte Tláloc, State of Mexico
Mount Tláloc, situated in the State of Mexico, is steeped in significant historical and cultural importance (more on that below).
It’s one of the highest peaks in the region, reaching an elevation of about 13,517 feet (4,120 meters), making it an imposing presence in the local landscape.
During the colder months from December to February, the peak occasionally sees snowfall, adding a mystical allure to its already significant historical charm.
🌧️ The Aztec Connection to Monte Tláloc
The Aztecs revered Monte Tláloc as a sacred site, and it was named for and associated with their rain god, Tláloc.
They believed this peak was where the heavens touched the earth, allowing them to be closer to the gods.
This reverence is evidenced by the remnants of large altars and ceremonial platforms at the summit. Here, rituals were conducted to honor Tlaloc and invoke rain.
17. Cerro El Potosí, Nuevo León
Cerro El Potosí in Nuevo León state is known for its stark and rugged beauty.
Reaching up to 12,200-feet-high (3,720 meters), it’s one of the highest peaks in northeastern Mexico.
This peak is notable for its significant snowfall during the winter, making it a key destination for those seeking snow in Mexico.
The mountain’s severe climate and challenging terrain make it a destination for experienced climbers and adventurers looking to experience the rarity of snow in a region dominated by arid and semi-arid landscapes.
Its isolated location offers tranquility and a pure, undisturbed winter environment, ideal for those looking to escape the more crowded, popular winter spots.
Does it snow in Mexico City?
Snow in Mexico City is EXTREMELY rare, but it has happened three times in the last 100 years.
The Mexico City altitude at 1.5 miles above sea level (2.4 km) gives it a much cooler climate than other areas in Mexico.
It gets cold during the winter months, but actual snowfall is uncommon — though these are the three times it snowed in Mexico City:
There first-recorded snowfall in Mexico City in 1940, but it was a small amount.
The most significant amount of snow in Mexico City fell in January 1967, when an impressive eight inches of snow (20 cm) settled on the ground.
The last time it snowed in CDMX was in December 2022, after 55 years of no snow, but it was a minuscule amount in comparison to the 1967 snowfall.
❄️ Does it get cold in Mexico City?
Mexico City’s usual winter conditions involve chilly temperatures — but not the freezing conditions required for snow.
So how cold is it in the wintertime in Mexico City?
In Mexico City, the average winter temperatures typically range from highs around 71°F (about 22°C), to lows of 38°F (about 3°C).
January tends to be the coldest month, with temperatures occasionally dipping lower during the coldest nights.
What is the coldest city in Mexico?
The coldest city in Mexico is typically Creel, located in the state of Chihuahua, in north Mexico.
This city is situated at a high elevation in the Sierra Tarahumara. It experiences very low temperatures during winter, sometimes dropping below freezing.
Creel, one of the Mexico pueblos magicos (magic towns), is known for dramatic temperature changes, and its high-altitude location contributes to the cold climate.
Final Thoughts: Snow in Mexico
Mexico offers a surprising variety of snowy landscapes, from Pico de Orizaba’s volcanic peaks to Sierra de Juárez’s northern heights.
❄️ Mexico Snow Pro Tip: When in doubt, do a quick internet search for Is there snow in Mexico today? so you’ll know where you can find the snow.
Despite the country’s predominantly warm climate, these higher elevations receive seasonal snowfall.
This makes them exceptional destinations for those seeking winter sports, or simply the novelty of snow in a country famed for sun and sand.
Tourists and locals alike cherish these colder spots, where the average Mexico temperature drops enough to dust the mountains in white.
Whether checking the forecast for a sunny hike or planning a snowy adventure, Mexico’s diverse climate ensures every visitor can find their ideal experience.
Don’t miss the chance to be among the first to share these unique snowy scenes with friends and family.
By
By
