Table of contents:
- Intro
- Arteaga, Coahuila: The Mexican Switzerland
- Nevado de Toluca, Mexico State: A Volcanic Wonderland
- Barrancas del Cobre and Creel, Chihuahua: Snowy Canyons and Rustic Charm
- Parque Natural Mexiquillo, Durango: Nature’s Snowy Playground
- Pico de Orizaba, Veracruz: Mexico’s Highest Peak
- Tips for Experiencing Snow in Mexico
- Informative video
Intro ❄️
For many people, when they think of Mexico, they imagine sunny beaches, colorful fiestas, and verdant jungles. However, another side of this diverse country surprises many travelers with some snowy winter wonderlands. Snow in Mexico is not so common but leaves a magical touch to some amazing destinations, travel these instead!
So, if you want to exchange the warm beaches for some snowy peaks, here are five options: Arteaga, Nevado de Toluca, Barrancas del Cobre and Creel, Parque Natural Mexiquillo, and Pico de Orizaba. Here are what makes these ones unique and your guide to enjoying a snowy getaway in Mexico.
Arteaga, Coahuila: The Mexican Switzerland 🌲
Known as the “Mexican Switzerland,” Arteaga is a beautiful mountain town in the state of Coahuila. Its snowy winters, cozy cabins, and breathtaking landscapes make it a favorite for winter lovers.
What to Do:
Arteaga’s main attraction is Bosques de Monterreal, a mountain resort that features one of the few ski slopes in Mexico. Here, visitors can ski, snowboard, and sled during the winter months. The surrounding pine forests are perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air. Don’t miss the local markets offering handmade crafts and winter treats.
Where to Stay:
Bosques de Monterreal offers luxurious mountain cabins equipped with fireplaces and panoramic views. Alternatively, consider staying at boutique hotels in Arteaga’s town center for a more budget-friendly option.
What to Eat:
Try some Coahuilense dishes like cabrito al pastor (grilled goat) or asado de puerco (pork stew). For something sweet, try jamoncillo, a regional milk candy. Check out our traditional food article!
How to Get There:
Arteaga is just a 30-minute drive from Saltillo, the capital of Coahuila, which has direct flights from Mexico City and Monterrey. You can rent a car from Saltillo or take a taxi to reach Arteaga.
Nevado de Toluca, Mexico State: A Volcanic Wonderland ⛰️
This place, also known as Xinantécatl, is a majestic volcano located near Toluca, just outside Mexico City. Its snowy crater lakes make it one of the most picturesque places to experience snow in Mexico. Also, I recommend the National Park La Marquesa, which is closer to Mexico City and is also snowy during this season.
What to Do:
Hike to the volcano’s crater and marvel at the twin lakes, Lago del Sol and Lago de la Luna, which often freeze over during winter. The trails cater to varying levels of difficulty, and guided tours are available for those unfamiliar with high-altitude hiking. For a cultural touch, visit nearby Metepec, a Pueblo Magico known for its pottery and artisan crafts.
Where to Stay:
Toluca offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury stays like Fiesta Inn Toluca Centro. If you prefer to stay closer to the volcano, consider rustic cabins in the surrounding area.
What to Eat:
Toluca is famous for chorizo verde (green chorizo), a local sausage seasoned with herbs. Pair it with handmade tortillas for an authentic meal. Don’t forget to try pan de elote (cornbread) and atole (a warm corn-based drink) to warm up. Check out this food article!
How to Get There:
Nevado de Toluca is about an hour’s drive from Toluca and two hours from Mexico City. You can drive directly to the park or take a bus to Toluca and hire a taxi or join a tour of the volcano.
Barrancas del Cobre and Creel, Chihuahua: Snowy Canyons and Rustic Charm 🌋
The Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre) is a sprawling network of canyons in Chihuahua, and the nearby mountain town of Creel is perfect for exploring this snowy region.
What to Do:
Take the Chepe Express train, an impressive journey that winds through snow-dusted landscapes and towering canyons. In Creel, visit Lake Arareco, the Valley of the Mushrooms, and Rarámuri communities to learn about indigenous culture. Winter transforms these sites into a frosty wonderland, perfect for photography and unforgettable hikes.
Where to Stay:
Creel offers lovely accommodations like Hotel Quinta Misión, a boutique hotel with rustic decor. For a more immersive experience, stay at a cabin near the canyons.
What to Eat:
Try hearty northern dishes like machaca con huevo (dried beef with eggs) and burritos norteños. For a sweet treat, enjoy champurrado, a thick chocolate-based drink, by a warm fire. A very Christmas experience!
How to Get There:
Fly into Chihuahua City, then take a bus or rent a car to Creel, which is a 4-hour drive. Alternatively, board the Chepe Express train for a scenic journey.
Parque Natural Mexiquillo, Durango: Nature’s Snowy Playground 🌳
Parque Natural Mexiquillo is a lesser-known gem in the Sierra Madre Occidental, where snow blankets rock formations and lush forests.
What to Do:
Mexiquillo is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Explore its snow-covered trails, waterfalls, and rock labyrinths. During the winter months, the park becomes a haven for snow play, hiking, and mountain biking. If you are into photography, you will love capturing the white scenery.
Where to Stay:
Stay in the park’s rustic cabins or book a room in nearby Durango City for more amenities. Hostal de la Monja is a charming option in Durango’s historic center.
What to Eat:
Mexiquillo’s nearby villages serve traditional Durango dishes like caldo durangueño (a hearty soup) and gorditas de nata (cream-filled pastries). Pair your meal with Durango’s famous mezcal for a warming kick.
How to Get There:
Mexiquillo is about a 2.5-hour drive from Durango City. Rent a car for the easiest access, or join an organized tour from Durango.
Pico de Orizaba, Veracruz: Mexico’s Highest Peak 🌄
The Pico de Orizaba, also known as Citlaltépetl, is Mexico’s tallest mountain and a popular destination for experienced climbers and winter adventurers.
What to Do:
The snow-capped peak offers challenging climbs for mountaineers, but there are also accessible trails for less-experienced hikers. Visit the nearby towns of Orizaba and Córdoba for historic architecture and coffee tours. Orizaba’s cable car provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Where to Stay:
Stay in Orizaba, where options range from budget-friendly inns to boutique hotels like Casa de la Iaia. Closer to the mountain, basic lodges cater to climbers and hikers.
What to Eat:
Veracruz cuisine shines here, with dishes like tamalitos de elote (sweet corn tamales) and chileatole (a spicy corn-based soup). Pair your meal with a cup of locally grown coffee for a true taste of the region.
How to Get There:
Orizaba is about two hours by car from Veracruz City, which has an international airport. From Orizaba, you can hire a guide or join a tour to explore Pico de Orizaba.
Tips for Experiencing Snow in Mexico 🥾
- Dress Warmly: While Mexico’s snowy destinations may not be as cold as alpine regions, temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes. Layer up and bring waterproof boots.
- Plan Ahead: Snowfall can be unpredictable in some areas, so check the weather forecast and road conditions before traveling.
- Respect Nature: Many of these destinations are protected areas. Follow local guidelines to minimize your environmental impact.
Snow in Mexico is a captivating phenomenon that combines the country’s natural beauty with unique cultural experiences. These winter wonderlands offer unforgettable adventures, from skiing in Arteaga to hiking Nevado de Toluca or marveling at the frosty Copper Canyon. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a relaxing cabin retreat or a thrilling mountain climb; Mexico’s snowy landscapes promise a side of the country you’ll never forget. So pack your winter gear and discover these unexpected gems for yourself!