Winter in Texas can range from sunny, warm days to chilly and snowy weather. Now, snow is a special occurrence in Texas. However, it can be spotted once a year in certain regions of the state. Areas in the Panhandle and West Texas seem to see more snow compared to the rest of the state. However, snow flurries and ice rarely but do occur in central Texas and even south Texas. Want to get a glimpse of snow? The top spots listed below give you the best chance of seeing snow in Texas, where, if you’re lucky, you can enjoy a winter wonderland.
Dallas Area
Dallas and the cities surrounding Dallas have been known to have a couple of inches of snow a year. Since cities tend to be warmer than country areas, your best bet would be to travel outside of the city of Dallas to catch more snowfall if snow is predicted in the forecast. Areas like Fort Worth, Grapevine, Arlington and other surrounding towns are also great options too since these cities will most likely get caught in the same snowstorm as Dallas. Even if you don’t see snow during your winter visit, there are still plenty of holiday and winter activities in Dallas, which is the third-most populous city in the state and the ninth-most populous in the nation.
Amarillo
Amarillo, located in the Texas Panhandle, receives on average 17.8 inches of snow every year. Since Amarillo is in the northernmost portion of the state, this city receives storms coming straight from the Rocky Mountains. The months that receive the most snow in Amarillo are December, January and February.
Big Bend National Park
Snow is rare in most of Big Bend National Park. However, since the park is home to higher elevations, areas above 3,500 feet are sprinkled with snow a couple of times a year. Although a desert environment, Big Bend National Park receives cold temperatures during the winter season. For Texans who would rather see snow from afar, Big Bend National Park is a great option since, typically, only the higher areas receive the white stuff. Who doesn’t love views of snow-capped mountains? Even if it doesn’t snow, you’ll find plenty to see and do in this park.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Head to Guadalupe Mountains National Park during December and January for chilly temperatures and the occasional snowfall. Just like Big Bend National Park, snow and frost are more common in the areas with higher elevations. Since Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the highest point in Texas, Guadalupe Peak at 8,751 feet, there is a chance you’ll see this spot covered with snow throughout the winter. If the weather is right, you can even hike up Guadalupe Peak. Although not an easy trail, it sure is worth the bragging rights.
El Paso
El Paso, located in the Davis Mountains of West Texas, is a great destination during the winter months to catch a glimpse of snow in the Lone Star State. El Paso is actually Texas’ westernmost city and receives about seven inches of snow a year. Hueco Tanks State Park and Franklin Mountains State Park are two great places to visit to see snow and explore the natural features near El Paso.
