Crested Butte Snow Conditions Overview
Crested Butte in Colorado, USA sits at 3,707m (12,163ft) elevation and averages 314cm of annual snowfall based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025). During the ski season, Crested Butte receives approximately 262cm of snow. The best month for powder is March, averaging 55.4cm of snowfall with a 28% powder probability. The highest chance of fresh powder (15cm+ in any given week) occurs in February and March at 30%.
- Annual Snowfall
- 314cm
- Elevation
- 3,707m
- Best Month
- March
- Powder Probability
- 30%
Snowfall data sourced from ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo Historical Weather API (2015-2025).
Check Crested Butte snow forecast for your dates
Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data
About Crested Butte
Crested Butte snowfall statistics based on 10 years of historical data. See average annual snowfall, best months to ski, and powder probability to help you plan your trip.
Snow & Weather Conditions
We use 10 years of historical data to help you plan — not a live snow report.
Colorado is famous for light, dry "champagne powder" produced by its continental climate and high altitude. Over 300 days of sunshine a year mean that fresh snow is often followed by bluebird skies — ideal conditions for powder skiing. At this extreme altitude, temperatures stay well below freezing for much of the season, preserving snow quality and enabling a long winter with deep, reliable snowpack. The high-alpine climate means precipitation often falls as dry, light powder even during milder weather events. Expect annual accumulations in the 8-12 metre band, with the compressed base frequently measuring 3-4 metres at its zenith.
Best Time to Ski
The best time to ski at Crested Butte is February and March, with 44.3cm average snowfall and 30% powder probability. Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data from PowderDays. The ski season typically runs from mid-November through mid-April, with March often delivering the deepest snowpack. Browse PowderDays' decade-spanning snow statistics to pinpoint the weeks with the heaviest accumulations.
Powder Probability by Month
Chance of 15cm+ fresh snow in any given week (10 years of data):
- Nov16%
- Dec27%
- Jan23%
- Feb30%
- Mar28%
- Apr8%
10-Year Snow History
| Month | Avg Snowfall (cm) | Record High | Record Low | Powder Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov | 32.2 | 58.6 | 12.9 | 16% |
| Dec | 52.2 | 136.5 | 21.1 | 27% |
| Jan | 45.1 | 110.3 | 16.5 | 23% |
| Feb | 44.3 | 62.5 | 24.1 | 30% |
| Mar | 55.4 | 109.8 | 20.1 | 28% |
| Apr | 33.2 | 51.7 | 15.7 | 8% |
What Makes It Special
Expect wide-open above-treeline bowls, steep chutes, perfectly groomed cruisers, and expansive terrain parks. The Colorado ski scene blends laid-back mountain-town charm with world-class dining, craft breweries, and a vibrant après-ski culture.
Colorado's "Champagne Powder" — a term trademarked by Steamboat Resort — describes the characteristically light, dry snow produced by the state's high altitude and low humidity. With an average moisture content of just 6-8%, Colorado powder is among the driest and lightest in North America.
Data Sources & Methodology
All snowfall statistics for Crested Butte are based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025) from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, which provides ERA5 reanalysis data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Daily snowfall totals are queried at Crested Butte's coordinates (38.90, -106.97) and 3,707m elevation, then aggregated into monthly averages, record highs/lows, and powder probability scores. Powder probability represents the chance of receiving 15cm or more of fresh snow in any given week during that month.