Colorado Mountains Brace for Significant Snowfall

Wet weather system to bring snow to high elevations, rain to Denver metro area

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

A wet weather system is forecast to bring significant snowfall to Colorado's mountains early this week, with up to a foot of snow expected in some areas between Monday and Friday. Meanwhile, the Denver metro area is expected to see rain showers during the same period, with the possibility of some snow mixing in as well.

Why it matters

The incoming weather system could disrupt travel and outdoor activities in the mountains, while also providing much-needed precipitation for the state's water supplies. The contrast between the snowy mountains and rainy lower elevations is a common weather pattern for Colorado in the spring.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, snow will be possible in Colorado's mountains between Monday morning and Tuesday night, pausing on Wednesday and starting up again on Thursday. In the Denver metro area, rain showers are forecast between Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, with rain also resuming on Thursday and the possibility of snow between Thursday and Friday.

  • Snow expected in the mountains from Monday morning through Tuesday night.
  • Snow pausing on Wednesday, then resuming on Thursday.
  • Rain showers forecast for the Denver area between Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.
  • Rain returning to the Denver area on Thursday, with a chance of snow Thursday through Friday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

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What’s next

Weather conditions will need to be closely monitored as the storm system moves through the region, with potential impacts on travel and outdoor activities in the mountains.

The takeaway

This spring weather pattern of snowy mountains and rainy lower elevations is typical for Colorado, but the significant snowfall forecast for the high country could still disrupt plans and require extra preparation for residents and visitors alike.