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.
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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.
You’ll find Bosques de Monterreal — Mexico’s only ski resort in the Sierra de Arteaga.
The best time to visit Sierra de Arteaga is in December and January, when the area experiences its coldest temperatures, which 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.
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.
Ready to Book Your Mexico Vacation? Here Are Some Resources To Look At:
Mexico is a large country — the 14th largest country on Earth by size — and it’s also the 6th most biodiverse diverse country in the world.
Though it’s mostly known for beaches, there’s a lot more to Mexico than that. Check out these Mexico articles to discover parts of the country you never knew existed.
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