Snow on the ground now?
Heading to Denver and Boulder this weekend. Forecast looks great. I know there recently was a major snowfall. Is there still a lot of snow on the ground in the cities? Trying to decide whether to wear boots or shoes. Thanks!
Great question. Short answer: probably not a ton of snow on the ground in Denver or Boulder right now, at least not in deep, persistent coverage — but you should be cautious, and “boots vs. shoes” depends on where exactly you’re walking and how much melting or refreezing has happened.
Here’s an in-depth look based on the latest conditions, recent snowfall, and what to expect:
What the Recent Snowfall Was Like
- Denver has recently seen significant snowfall: according to the National Weather Service, the metro recorded about 20 inches of snow, which is roughly 2.7× the typical November total.
- But despite that, current reports suggest that snowpack in the area is still well below median — only around 21-26% of “normal” for this time of year, per snow-water equivalent measurements.
- Forecasts have been a bit mixed: while snow is expected in some mountain areas, the Front Range (where Denver/Boulder are) might get some light snow or sleet, but not necessarily major accumulation.
What That Means for Snow on the Ground in the Cities
- There’s likely some residual snow or slush, especially in spots that don’t get full sun (north-facing sidewalks, shaded streets, or grassy patches).
- Because recent daytime weather has been relatively warm and sunny (per the forecast), a good portion of that snow may have melted, especially on roads, sidewalks, and more exposed urban areas.
- Refreezing can happen overnight — even if things melt during the day, icy patches can form, especially on shady or elevated surfaces.
So, Boots or Shoes?
- Boots are a safer bet if you want to be cautious — especially waterproof or insulated ones. They’ll give you good traction, protect you from slush, and keep you warmer if you hit icy spots.
- If you’re sticking to well-cleared sidewalks, downtown areas, or places that get sun, then a pair of shoes with a decent tread could work — especially if you don’t mind avoiding the messier patches.
- You could consider a hybrid: water-resistant ankle boots or hiking-style shoes give you more flexibility — enough protection without being overkill.
Extra Tips
- Bring a pair of traction cleats or Yaktrax if you’re worried about ice — cheap, lightweight, and very handy.
- Check local sidewalks and street conditions once you arrive — snow coverage can vary a lot even within neighborhoods.
- Wear layers: ground conditions might be cold and damp, but daytime highs look to be in the 60s °F, so dress for a range.
Bottom line: Yes, there’s probably some snow leftover, but not likely deep drifts everywhere in Denver/Boulder. For walking around the city, boots (or water-resistant shoes) offer good protection, especially early or late in the day.
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