Snow in Mexico! 7 Beautiful Places To See It
Snow in Mexico? When most people think of a Mexican vacation, they generally picture stunning beaches, a warm climate, and a rich, vibrant culture.
However, believe it or not, it’s also an incredible winter destination if you’re looking for snowfall and a cooler, mild climate.
The Tropic of Cancer runs right through Mexico, dividing the country into tropical and temperate climates. In the northern, temperate parts of the country, freezing temperatures and snow in Mexico are extremely common in winter.
If you’re searching for the best place and time of year to visit and see the breathtaking snowy landscapes, you’re in the right place.
I’ll cover all the information you need about how to plan the perfect winter vacation in Mexico in this post.
Does it Snow in Mexico?
Yes, it does snow in Mexico! Snowfall is most common in the northern regions of the country, and while snowfall is rare at lower elevations, it’s not unheard of.
Mexico is a large, expansive country with a diverse range of climates throughout the year.
So while it might not snow in every area of this warm, tropical nation, it is possible to experience snowfall and cold temperatures in the winter months.
The southern part of Mexico sees tropical weather year-round. But after you are done exploring the warm areas and checking out the ancient ruins, head up north!
Specific northern locations receive significant amounts of snow.
Northernmost parts can reach low temperatures of below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) during the coldest months of the year.
You’re more likely to see snow in high altitudes, such as on the peaks of mountains and volcanoes in Northern Mexico.
Best Places To See Snowfall in Mexico
Of course, you are probably wondering, where does it snow in Mexico?
Mexico is a country full of unique hidden gems, but the snowy ones are some of the best.
There are several great places to see snow in Mexico, depending on your preferences.
The Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range offers a great place to see snow. And is particularly prone to heavy snowfall.
Mexico is also home to two of the world’s tallest volcanoes, which are often covered in the fluffy white stuff all year long.
Here are the 7 best places to see snow in Mexico. Also included are tips such as when and how best to enjoy it.
1. Mexiquillo, Durango ❄️
Situated in Pueblo Nuevo, this natural park in the Northern Mexico state of Durango is a must-visit destination at any time of year.
But during the winter months, in particular, this scenic forest landscape sees a light dusting of snow that offers even more magical and breathtaking natural views.
The Pueblo Nuevo Natural Park in Mexiquillo is spread across 52 acres. With numerous incredible sights to explore throughout the forest.
This is a popular tourist destination during the busy winter months of December through February. However, it remains quiet and peaceful even when busy.
So, there’s always plenty of space for visitors to explore and enjoy the tranquil natural surroundings.
Some of the most popular sights in the area include frozen waterfalls, unfinished railroad tunnels, and expansive pine trees.
Besides these sights, there are several unique rock formations formed millions of years ago by hot magma. 🔥
Mexiquillo is a predominantly pristine, untouched destination, so there aren’t many stores or restaurants in the area.
The forest landscape makes this one of the best places to enjoy outdoor adventures in a mild winter climate.
Popular activities include:
- Hiking to frozen waterfalls
- Kayaking down the La Ciudad River
- Exploring the one-of-a-kind rock formations
- Mountain biking through the trails
If you want to spend a night under the stars, Mexiquillo is the place to be. There are designated campsites throughout the park, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in nature.
However, if you’d rather unwind in complete warmth, there are several affordable hotels in the nearby town of La Ciudad. Here, you’ll get to experience restaurants, museums, and other attractions.
Explore the magnificent, snow-covered views of this natural park. Afterward, La Ciudad is the perfect place to warm up, rest your legs, and grab a bite to eat.
2. Copper Canyon, Chihuahua ❄️
From November to February, visitors of Copper Canyon in Chihuahua can experience an extraordinary winter wonderland.
It offers scenic views, exciting outdoor activities, and a rich history.
Nestled in the Sierra Madre Range, Copper Canyon is made up of six separate canyons spread across 25,000 square miles in Northwestern Mexico.
The canyons are home to the Tarahumara people, who often sell food, blankets, and other traditional crafts to canyon visitors.
There are many ways to explore the stunning sights of the canyon, including on foot, by bike, or on horseback. One of the most unforgettable is El Chepe, the Copper Canyon train.
This locomotive runs along a railway line nearly 400 miles in length. And has rugged scenery and captivating views throughout the journey.
The train goes from Los Mochis to Chihuahua, with several small towns you can stop in and explore along the route.
You can discover archeological sites in El Fuerte or go for a waterfall hike in Bahuichivo. Also, learn more about the indigenous Tarahumara with a guided tour in Creel.
There are also several accommodation options along the railway, making it easy to set up in the region and explore the different areas at your own pace.
The volume of snow during the winter typically ranges from a light dusting to a few inches.
While heavier snow can shut down a few of the attractions, it generally melts quickly. So you don’t have to worry about canceled activities.
3. Arteaga, Coahuila ❄️
With the nickname “The Switzerland of Mexico”, it’s no surprise that Arteaga in the northeastern state of Coahuila is one of the best places to see snow in Mexico.
This small, charming city is nestled along the base of Sierra Madre Oriental Mountain and is surrounded by soaring snowy peaks.
Skiing is available all year round, with snowboarding and other exciting winter sports available during the winter season, when there is heavier snowfall.
Along with the scenic mountain views, Arteaga has multiple attractions and landmarks for visitors to explore. For a free attraction, you can walk through the Alameda Venustiano Carranza.
Or, for a fee, you can tour the Carranza House Museum, a beautiful art nouveau building that served as the home of President Venustiano Carranza.
And whether you’re looking for high-end, luxury accommodation or quaint cabins, Arteaga offers plenty of diverse accommodation options.
There are cabin rentals, cottages, domes, and other remarkable stays that allow you to stay close to nature while enjoying the views in a warm, comfortable location.
A stunning spot for an unforgettable stay can be found at Bosque de Monterreal, a small but luxurious ski resort in the forests of Arteaga.
The gorgeous, spacious cabins give guests access to enchanting snowy landscapes, and visitors can enjoy convenient access to the finest skiing opportunities in the country.
Along with skiing, Bosque de Monterreal offers several other activities, such as:
- Golfing
- Horseback riding
- Rappelling
- Ziplining
- Hiking
There’s even a spa where you can relax while surrounded by breathtaking nature.
4. Nevado de Toluca ❄️
Mexico is full of snow-capped mountains with a year-round alpine climate. One of the best places to visit to see some of the snowfall in these scenic mountains is Nevado de Toluca.
Located near the city of Toluca, this stratovolcano can be found in Central Mexico, around 50 miles west of Mexico City. In 1936, Nevado de Toluca and the surrounding area was established as a national park.
Today, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists at any time of year. When you’re not climbing up the rocky, snow-covered mountain, you can find easier hiking trails, bike paths, horseback riding, and much more.
Nevado de Toluca has an abundance of rugged, rocky peaks to explore. Several guided tours will take you to the mountain summit or on hikes around the nearby crater lakes.
These tours start at relatively affordable prices, with several options below $100. There are also more extensive options, with prices that reflect that.
Hike at Nevado de Taluca Volcano
There is one guided tour in particular that I strongly recommend if you are looking to hike at Nevado de Toluca Volcano.
This day trip tour from Mexico City includes lunch, snacks, trekking poles, accident insurance, and transportation; making it well worth its $99 price tag.
I love this tour because the extra inclusions make it well worth the cost. Not to mention the epic views and unforgettable experience.
It also includes transportation and has a ⭐️5-star rating from other kickass fellow travelers that tell you like it is.
At the bottom of the volcano basin are two crater lakes—Lago del Sol and Lago de la Luna.
The water is usually too cold for swimming and diving, but you can picnic by the water, take in the stunning views, or hike the trails surrounding the lakes.
In addition to its extraordinary ecosystem, Nevado de Toluca is host to a number of archaeological sites dating back to the pre-Hispanic period.
The location was historically a ritual center where the local population organized various ceremonial activities.
This volcano is an easy day trip from Mexico City and other more populated areas, making it the perfect snowy escape from the loud, hectic city environment.
Note: this hike is for intermediate and up hikers. You will see spectacular scenery and be able to see the only volcano in all of Mexico that has lagoons in its crater. However, it is a physically demanding hike, so be prepared!
5. Sombrerete, Zacatecas ❄️
Bordering the state of Durango in Northwestern Mexico, Sombrerete is an ideal spot for anyone that wants to experience snow and cooler weather while enjoying the rich local culture.
This colonial-era mining town offers a unique stay in Mexico, with many historic sites and landmarks to discover.
Throughout winter, the light dusting of snow makes the colonial backdrop of this town an even more spectacular majesty.
And with plenty of indoor and outdoor attractions, you can discover all Sombrerete has to offer at any time of the year.
You can learn about Chalchihuites culture at the Archeological Sites Museum or see historical artifacts at the Museum Villa de Llerena.
If you love historical architecture, be sure to visit the impressive Temple of the Santa Veracruz, the Santuario de Plateros, or the Santo Domingo Church.
Aside from its rich cultural sights, Sombrerete boasts countless natural wonders, too. Sombrerete is home to Sierra de Organos National Park, which has thriving wildlife, unforgettable forest scenery, and a huge range of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Camping, rock climbing, biking, and hiking are all popular among visitors.
If your adventures leave you hungry, you won’t be disappointed by the diverse variety of delicious restaurants. In particular, the location has an insanely great selection of empanadas that will leave you wanting more.
And after a day of exploring Zacatecas, you won’t have to travel far to find a place to sleep. Sombreretes has several affordable hotel options near many of its main attractions.
6. La Malinche, Puebla-Tlaxcala Valley ❄️
If you head east from Mexico City, you’ll find La Malinche, a volcano located along the border of Puebla and Tlaxcala. At over 14,000 feet, La Malinche is the sixth-highest peak in Mexico.
This mountain is a popular training spot for climbers and mountaineers hoping to climb one of the higher, more treacherous volcanoes in the country.
While only more experienced hikers with the proper equipment should climb this mountain after a snowfall, there are alternative options for novice hikers and rock climbers to explore what the area has to offer.
Also, there are an abundance of guided tours that take visitors around the mountain and surrounding national park. Private tours are under $100, with longer summit expeditions available for a higher price.
La Malinche is located within Malinche National Park, which offers several recreational outdoor activities. Visitors can drive along the paved road, camp in a cabin, or hike some of the less grueling trails.
To enjoy the cool, snowy weather from the comfort of indoors, you can head to the nearby town of Huamantla. This quaint, magical colonial town is full of beautiful historical sites, museums, restaurants, and more.
In addition, several hotels are available, making this a great base when you’re exploring the outdoors during the day.
7. Pico de Orizaba ❄️
Pico de Orizaba, also known as Citlaltépetl, is the highest mountain in Mexico. It’s located between the states of Veracruz and Puebla in the country’s southern-central region.
While this inactive stratovolcano is farther south than where you would expect to see snow in Mexico, its high altitude results in a cool climate year-round. Throughout the year, the 18,400-foot peak is covered in glaciers and a layer of snow.
Unsurprisingly, Pico de Orizaba is a popular climbing destination for both beginner and advanced mountaineering.
Although it doesn’t require a lot of experience to reach the summit, it’s best to have at least some. This ensures you’re prepared to take on any potential challenges during your excursions.
You’ll also need crampons and an ice ax. The mountain is a demanding climb. But it rewards those who head to Pico de Orizaba with some of the most unforgettable views you can find in Mexico.
If you are planning a climb, keep in mind that it’s crucial to get acclimatized to the altitude before getting started.
Hike up Pico de Orizaba
There are also options for private guided trips to the top of Pico de Orizaba. Although pricier than other guided trips (it is a 3-day hike), this guided hike is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With incredibly spectacular scenery that you will never forget.
The Pico de Orizaba hike is a 3-day hike in which you will enjoy a privately guided adventure. Hiking to the glacier, (who woulda’ thought! Hiking to a glacier in Mexico!) And then putting on provided ice gear to get across and to the summit.
This is another ⭐️5-star rated hike, and for good reason. The memories you will make from this indescribably amazing experience will stick with you for the rest of your life.
I strongly recommend this hike because of how personalized and safe the experience is with very skilled and knowledgeable guides.
While you do need your own basic hiking gear, they include food, water, coffee and tea, and transportation. Plus you get to go on an actual ice climb with provided ice gear.
Other travelers have also mentioned that their guides were extremely helpful. They provided them with any hiking gear they needed.
It is totally understandable that you may not have all the equipment you need. Especially if you are a budget traveler like me!
That is why I prefer guided hikes like this one. With kind, knowledgeable locals simply wanting to help you have the adventure of a lifetime.
Activities for Less Experienced Hikers
Less experienced mountaineers can also find plenty to do.
The nearby town of Tlachichuca, which is a focal point for many climbers, has numerous activities and attractions, including:
- Have a thrilling time at the Volcanic Park theme park
- Sit by the calm water of Laguna de Alchichica
- Climb the less treacherous Sierra Negra peak
- Try some delicious food at one of the local restaurants
The towns surrounding the mountain have several boutique hotels that make a perfect home base as you explore the locale and take in the snow-capped mountain scenery.
Volcanoes Covered in Snow
Because of the cool temperatures at their high altitudes, volcanoes are one of the best places to find snow in Mexico.
As the highest peak in Mexico, Pico de Orizaba is an ideal spot to see snow in Mexico.
However, as I mentioned before, reaching the summit of this volcano isn’t for inexperienced climbers.
But if you are interested, you can find plenty of guided climbs with local, experienced mountaineers.
The links above will take you to my #1 recommended guided climb that I have found for this iconic snow-capped peak in Mexico.
La Malinche and Nevado de Toluca, as previously mentioned, are two other fantastic options if you want to see some snow-capped volcanoes while in the country.
These two mountains offer less strenuous hikes and plenty of other outdoor recreational activities to try as you take in the gorgeous views.
You can find even more snowy mountain views at Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatepetl National Park. The two volcanoes in Central Mexico create a unique snowy landscape with dramatic sweeping views.
Visitors can learn about the legend of these two mountains and take on the rugged mountain slopes with a guided volcano hike or jeep tour.
Iztaccihuatl Volcano Climb
I cannot recommend the Iztaccihuatl Volcano Climb enough.
The ⭐️5-star reviews are simply outstanding and fully detailed from ecstatic adventure travelers like yourself that found this hidden gem of a hike.
This guided hike offers views more spectacular than I can put into words. This is literally the adventure experience you have been looking for.
The best part about this private guided hike??
The guides!
These people are simply outstanding.
The private guides are bilingual, and in addition to speaking fluent English and Spanish– they also offer the tour in German and French! (How often do you get choices like that?!)
Along with being fluently bilingual, the guides are also trained paramedics that have done this hike so many times that they know it like the back of their hand.
They can spot and maneuver around changing weather conditions in the blink of an eye.
I don’t think it’s possible to feel safer with these people if they swaddled me in a blanket and carried me up the volcano cradled in their arms.
They even provide a crash course on how to use ice gear (ax and crampons) the day before the hike if you have never used them before.
These guides show passion for what they do and make this hike one of the best snowy volcano hikes out there.
They truly want you to be happy and have the best time possible and are impressively flexible and willing to work with you on anything you need. \
Read through some of the ⭐️5-star reviews to see what people are saying for yourself.
Free transportation is offered; they will pick you up anywhere in Mexico City. And all equipment is provided. (Including tents, sleeping bags, food, water, and other equipment!)
Just be sure to dress warmly for the cold temperatures up there.
Does It Snow in Mexico City?
While it’s not uncommon to see snow in northern states and higher altitudes throughout Mexico, it does not snow in Mexico City.
However, the mountains surrounding the capital city of Mexico will often see snowfall during the cold winter months due to the high elevation.
Mexico City, however, is located within a tropical climate and generally has mild winters and warm summers.
That being said, Mexico City is a fantastic location to plan as your base. You can easily find tours and guided hikes to enjoy snow in Mexico in the surrounding mountains.
Snowfall in Mexico City is rare but not completely unheard of. It’s snowed three times in the capital city since 1908, with the most recent occurrence in 1967.
Best Time To Plan Your Trip to Experience Snowfall
The best time to plan your trip to Mexico to experience snowfall is between December and March.
These months are when the country reaches its lowest average temperature. And the cooler regions up north are more likely to see significant snowfall.
To ensure that you experience the cold and snow in Mexico, you might want to consider booking a trip for January.
The start of the year is the coldest month in Mexico, with an average low of 17 degrees Fahrenheit.
There are also some high-altitude destinations around Mexico where you can see snowfall year-round.
Volcanoes such as Nevado de Toluca and Pico de Orizaba, for example, are covered in the snow without interruption.
Skiing and Snowboarding
With limited skiing areas, Mexico generally isn’t the go-to vacation destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
But if you are looking for a place to ski and snowboard during your trip, you’re in luck. Mexico has a couple of fantastic snow-covered mountains that are well-suited for some exhilarating fun.
The first and only alpine center in Mexico is Bosques de Monterreal.
Located 45 minutes from Saltillo in Arteaga, this ski resort is the best option for any winter sports. It offers two ski slopes, with .3 kilometers of ski and snowboard trails.
Bosques De Monterreal also has several cozy swiss-style cabins. So you’ll be surrounded by scenic winter views and a snowy landscape as you relax in between visits to the slopes.
Arteaga accommodates visitors of all experience levels throughout the year. But you have options if you’re looking for more of a challenge.
Popocatepetl and Pico de Orizaba deliver on this front. With bunches of fluffy white stuff and terrain that will thrill snowboarders and skiers alike.
Interestingly, Popocatepetl is home to a dormant volcano. It spewed ash in 1994 but hasn’t had a major eruption since 1947.
Wrapping Up
Sunshine, beaches, and tropical weather can be great, but sometimes you need a break from the heat.
The idea of snow in Mexico might seem surprising, but it’s a fabulous experience if you want to discover some absolutely stunning wintery scenic views.
Any of these seven places offers exceptional opportunities to see snowfall in an unforgettable and scenic environment.
From high-altitude volcano peaks to magical snow-covered towns, Mexico has something to offer every winter/snow enthusiast or casual, curious traveler.
So if you’re planning a visit to Mexico anytime in December through March, make sure to bookmark this page and remember to check out some of these amazing destinations.
Happy Travels!
Looking to warm up a little? Head over to our Mexico page to read about our other Disorderly Drifters Mexico adventures!
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