Fresh Snow Forecast - Rocky Mountains
Fresh snow forecast for Colorado. Track powder conditions at Rocky Mountain NP, Maroon Bells, Aspen for pristine winter photography.
This forecast identifies the magic window after fresh snowfall: when the snow has stopped, skies are clearing, and pristine powder covers the landscape. We track snowfall accumulation, clearing patterns, and visibility to predict optimal conditions.
Colorado's Rocky Mountains receive over 300 inches of annual snowfall in many locations, creating world-renowned winter photography opportunities. The key is timing—fresh snow transforms the landscape, but you need clearing skies and light to capture it at its best.
What makes the Rocky Mountains special for winter photography:
- Champagne powder - Colorado's dry, light snow drapes landscapes in photogenic detail
- High altitude - Many locations above 10,000 feet receive consistent, quality snowfall
- Dramatic peaks - The Maroon Bells, Crested Butte, and countless fourteeners provide stunning backdrops
- Clear post-storm skies - Colorado's 300+ sunny days often follow snowstorms with brilliant light
The best fresh snow conditions occur November through March. Our forecast tracks the critical window: snow has accumulated (5+ cm in 6 hours), current snowfall has stopped, and clearing is underway. This is when you get pristine, untouched landscapes with good visibility. Move quickly—wind and sun begin transforming fresh powder within hours.
Location status
0 of 10 locations currently active
Estes Park
InactiveGateway to Rocky Mountain NP winter landscapes
Estes Park, Colorado, United States
Right now: Not enough recent snow (0.8cm, needs ≥ 2cm in past 12h)
Aspen
InactiveMountain town with fresh powder and Maroon Bells
Aspen, Colorado, United States
Right now: Not enough recent snow (1.1cm, needs ≥ 2cm in past 12h)
4 opportunities in next 14 days
Vail
InactivePremier ski resort winter scenes
Edwards, Colorado, United States
Right now: Not enough recent snow (0.0cm, needs ≥ 2cm in past 12h)
Breckenridge
InactiveHigh altitude ski town winter scenes
Silverthorne, Colorado, United States
Right now: Not enough recent snow (0.1cm, needs ≥ 2cm in past 12h)
Telluride
InactiveBox canyon surrounded by snowy peaks
Telluride, Colorado, United States
Right now: Not enough recent snow (0.2cm, needs ≥ 2cm in past 12h)
Steamboat Springs
InactiveFamous champagne powder snow
Steamboat Springs, Colorado, United States
Right now: Not enough recent snow (0.3cm, needs ≥ 2cm in past 12h)
Crested Butte
InactiveMountain town with pristine powder
Crested Butte, Colorado, United States
Right now: Not enough recent snow (0.0cm, needs ≥ 2cm in past 12h)
Durango
InactiveSan Juan Mountains winter gateway
Pagosa Springs, Colorado, United States
Right now: Not enough recent snow (0.0cm, needs ≥ 2cm in past 12h)
Silverton
InactiveRemote mining town in deep snow
Creede, Colorado, United States
Right now: Not enough recent snow (0.0cm, needs ≥ 2cm in past 12h)
Ouray
InactiveIce climbing and box canyon winter
Ouray, Colorado, United States
Right now: Poor visibility (1km, needs ≥ 3km)
2 opportunities in next 14 days
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