Snow on Pikes Peak

Winter is Coming: Pikes Peak Receives First Measurable Snowfall of the Season

DENVER, COLORADO – Pikes Peak welcomed its first measurable snowfall of the season on September 5, 2024, marking the arrival of the September Shoulder Season. The iconic 14,115-foot peak, captured in a crisp image from the summit webcam of the Cog Railroad, was dusted with approximately two inches of fresh snow overnight.

This early September snowfall, while a striking sight, is relatively common for Pikes Peak, where snow can occur during all twelve months of the year. The light blanket of snow is expected to melt within the next few days, thanks to the intense solar radiation typical of the high-altitude environment.

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For residents and visitors alike, this early-season snow is a reminder of the region’s unpredictable weather patterns. As summer transitions into fall, the September Shoulder Season brings cooler temperatures and the possibility of more snow at higher elevations, even as the lower regions of Colorado continue to enjoy warmer days.

The snow on Pikes Peak adds a picturesque element to the mountain’s rugged landscape, attracting photographers and adventurers eager to witness the season’s first wintry touch. However, it also serves as a reminder for those planning to explore the area to prepare for rapidly changing conditions.

As the snow melts away in the coming days, the mountain will once again reveal its rocky, weather-worn face, but the early snowfall signals that winter is not far off in the high country.

Alex Derr, Founder of The Next Summit

Alex Derr is an Eagle Scout, climber, and environmental policy expert located in Denver, Colorado. He created The Next Summit to help others stay safe exploring the mountains and advocate to preserve the peaks for the future. Follow him on Linkedin or Twitter or click here to contact him.

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