The Snowiest Cities in The United States

Winter is a season that some look forward to with glee, and others try to avoid like the plague. But for those who love snow, whether for skiing, snowboarding, or simply the beauty of a blanket of white covering the landscape, there are cities in the United States where snow isn’t just a season; it’s a way of life.

From towering snowbanks to snow-covered streets, these cities have earned their place as some of the snowiest in the country, and they offer plenty of winter activities to enjoy while the flakes keep falling. Let’s take a closer look at the snowiest cities and explore why they see so much snow, the annual snowfall totals, and the best winter activities to enjoy in each of these snow-filled destinations.

Caribou, Maine

Located in the far northeast corner of the US, Caribou, Maine, is often considered the snow capital of the country. This small, rural town, near the Canadian border, is home to consistently cold winters that see about 114.2 inches of annual snowfall. Caribou experiences long winters with heavy snow due to its northern latitude and proximity to the Arctic air masses that move down from Canada.

The town's weather is influenced by the prevailing winds that bring in snowstorms throughout the winter months. These Arctic air masses combine with moisture from the nearby Atlantic Ocean to create significant snowfall. On average, Caribou gets more than 9 feet of snow each winter, but the record snowfall, nearly 14 feet (167.6 inches 2018-2019) in a single season, has made Caribou infamous for its winter weather.

Caribou and the surrounding Aroostook County offer outdoor enthusiasts plenty to do during the winter months. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing are popular pastimes, while snowmobile trails crisscross the area. For those looking for something unique, the Maine Winter Sports Center in nearby Fort Kent offers opportunities for biathlon events and even winter bike racing.

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

Sault Ste. Marie, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is known for its heavy lake-effect snow. The city lies near Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, which is one of the prime sources of lake-effect snow in the US. When cold air from the Canadian plains moves over the relatively warmer waters of Lake Superior, it picks up moisture, which then falls as snow when it hits land.

Sault Ste. Marie sees a massive amount of snow each year, with an average of over 9 feet annually and its record snowfall in 2018-2019 reaching 142 inches. The area’s cold winters and lake-effect snow events contribute to its reputation as one of the snowiest cities. These weather conditions, while often inconvenient for residents, make the area a haven for winter sports lovers.

Skiing and snowboarding are available at the nearby Treetops Resort, while cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails are plentiful. The nearby Soo Locks, which are normally bustling with cargo ships, take on a serene beauty during the winter months, with ice forming on the water’s surface.

Flagstaff, Arizona

It may be surprising to see Arizona on this list, but Flagstaff, located at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, is one of the snowiest cities in the country. Situated on the Colorado Plateau, its elevation plays a significant role in the city's winter weather. The higher altitude means that temperatures stay low enough for snow to accumulate, and it is common to see snowstorms that deposit several inches at a time. Flagstaff's unique location allows it to receive moisture from Pacific storms and, at times, from the Colorado Rockies, which leads to heavy snowfalls during the winter months. 

With over 100 inches of snow each year and a record snowfall of 126 inches in 2018-2019, Flagstaff is a perfect winter getaway. The Arizona Snowbowl offers fantastic skiing and snowboarding, and the city’s historic downtown is charming during the holidays. Flagstaff is also home to excellent cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing routes, while nearby forests offer opportunities for winter hiking and wildlife spotting.

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo, New York, is famous for its intense snowstorms and large amounts of snow. Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Erie, Buffalo is another city affected by lake-effect snow, which is a weather phenomenon that occurs when cold winds blow across the warmer waters of the lake, picking up moisture and dumping it as snow. The result is heavy snowfalls, particularly in the winter months with some winters seeing more than 15 feet of snow and its record snowfall sitting at 182.4 inches in 2000-2001. These snowfalls, while challenging for residents, provide a unique setting for those who embrace the winter weather.

Buffalo embraces its snowy winters with an array of winter activities. Ice skating on the downtown canal, snowshoeing in the city's parks, and sledding at Hoyt Lake are just a few of the ways residents and visitors enjoy the snow. The city's location near the Finger Lakes region also provides ample opportunities for wine tasting tours, with a winter twist.

Syracuse, New York

Another city in the Great Lakes region that sees heavy lake-effect snow is Syracuse, New York.  Located near Lake Ontario, Syracuse gets an ample amount of snow from the prevailing westerly winds that pick up moisture from the lake and dump it over the city. Syracuse’s heavy snowfalls, while a regular part of winter life, can be a challenge—receiving an average of over 10 feet of snow each winter and a record snowfall of 192.1 inches in 2007-2008.

Syracuse has a variety of winter activities to keep visitors busy. The city is home to several ski resorts, including Song Mountain, where visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. Additionally, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities in local parks, and there are numerous opportunities for ice fishing and snowmobiling in the surrounding areas.

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington, Vermont, is not only known for its scenic beauty and vibrant downtown but also for its snowy winters. Located near Lake Champlain, Burlington experiences moderate snowfall (around 81 inches a year), but the region’s cold temperatures and frequent storms lead to steady snow accumulation. It's record snowfall was in 2013-2014 with 120.2 inches. The surrounding mountains contribute to the snow totals as well, making Burlington a prime destination for winter enthusiasts.

Burlington is a haven for those who love winter sports. The city is just a short drive from several ski resorts, including Stowe and Sugarbush, where visitors can hit the slopes. Ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are all popular activities in the area. The city is also home to a festive winter market, which celebrates local artisans and winter foods.

Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth, Minnesota, located along the shores of Lake Superior, is known for its heavy snowfalls, which are a result of the lake-effect snow phenomenon. The city's proximity to the Great Lakes means that it regularly receives snow from passing storm systems that pick up moisture from the lake. In fact, Duluth often experiences significant snowstorms that dump several feet of snow in a short amount of time. The town sees an annual snowfall of around 86 inches and its record snowfall was in 1996-1997 with 138.5 inches.

Duluth embraces its snowy winters with numerous outdoor activities. The city’s proximity to the lake makes it a perfect location for winter hiking and snowshoeing, while nearby ski resorts provide ample opportunities for downhill skiing. The city also hosts the annual Bentleyville Tour of Lights, a festive event featuring millions of holiday lights and plenty of winter cheer.

Conclusion

From the frozen streets of Syracuse to the snowy peaks of Flagstaff, the US is home to many cities where snow is a common sight, and winter activities are a way of life. Whether you love skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the beauty of a snow-covered landscape, these snowiest cities offer a perfect winter getaway. So pack your winter gear, and head to one of these frosty cities for an unforgettable snowy adventure!