What You Should Know About Winter in Fort Collins
What You Should Know About Winter in Fort Collins Before You Move Here
Thinking about moving to Fort Collins? Winter is one of the most common things newcomers ask about, and for good reason. While Northern Colorado winters are generally milder than many expect, they do come with a few surprises.
Here’s what you should know about winter in Fort Collins before calling it home.
Winter Weather: Cold, But Not Constantly Freezing
Fort Collins experiences a true four-season climate, but winter here isn’t nonstop snow and sub-zero temperatures.
- Average winter highs often reach the 40s and even 50s
- Plenty of sunshine: over 300 days a year
- Snowstorms are usually followed by clear, sunny days
Unlike many Midwestern or Eastern states, Fort Collins doesn’t stay gray all winter long. Snow typically melts quickly thanks to sunshine and Chinook winds.
Snow Happens, But It’s Usually Manageable
Yes, it snows. But it’s rarely overwhelming.
- Snowstorms are often short-lived
- Major blizzards are uncommon
- City snow removal is efficient on main roads. Residential roads won’t get the attention unless the snowfall is over a certain amount but again, SUN!
Most residents drive year-round with good all-season tires, though snow tires can be helpful if you commute early mornings or travel into the mountains frequently.
The Wind Can Be the Real Shock
One thing many people don’t expect? The wind.
Winter winds can make mild temperatures feel much colder, especially on open roads and east-west corridors. Layering and wind-resistant outerwear go a long way here. The more north you go in Northern CO, the more the Wyoming winds drop down.
Read our blog about how now frequent winds are causing power outages across Northern Colorado.
Winter Activities Are a Lifestyle Bonus
For many residents, winter isn’t something to endure, it’s something to enjoy.
- Horsetooth Reservoir hiking (often snow-free trails), Lory State Park(Arthur’s Rock), Horsetooth Mountain Open Space all offer great winter hiking.
- Snowshoeing and winter running
- Easy access to skiing, snowboarding, and mountain towns. Eldora Mountain, Steamboat Springs, and Snowy Range are all within 2-3 hours of Fort Collins
- Cozy breweries, coffee shops, and Old Town events
Winter in Fort Collins tends to feel active and social, not isolating. Read all about the best day trips from Fort Collins to take advantage of the shorter days.
Shorter Days, Brighter Skies
While daylight hours are shorter in winter, Fort Collins’ bright sunshine helps counter the winter blues.
It’s common to see people walking dogs, biking, or sitting on patios even in January when the sun is out.
Home Considerations for Winter Living
If you’re buying a home in Fort Collins, winter brings a few practical considerations:
- South-facing driveways melt snow faster
- Garages are extremely valuable
- Homes with good insulation and newer windows help with energy efficiency
- Many homes have sprinkler systems that must be winterized
- Older homes can be charming, but newer builds often offer better winter efficiency
Cost of Utilities in Winter
Heating costs rise in winter, but Fort Collins homes are generally designed for the climate.
- Natural gas heating is common
- Utility costs are typically predictable
- Solar homes can significantly reduce winter bills
Compared to colder regions, heating costs here are often more manageable than people expect.
Winter Driving: Confidence Matters More Than Fear
Winter driving is part of life, but it’s not extreme.
- Roads are plowed quickly
- Ice is less common than snow
- Most closures are brief and weather-related
Taking it slow and being prepared goes a long way.
Winter Is Part of the Charm
Winter in Fort Collins is often one of the most misunderstood parts of living here. It’s colder than the South, sunnier than the Midwest, and far more comfortable than many mountain towns.
If you enjoy four seasons, outdoor access, and a community that doesn’t shut down when it snows, winter in Fort Collins might be something you end up loving, not just tolerating.
Written by Matt Ryan with the Weinland Team at RE/MAX Alliance
Phone: (970) 988-3127
Email: Matt@TheWeinlandTeam.com
Written by fortcollinsexperience
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