Near Christmas, we begin to want snow, a white Christmas, a winter wonderland. But how many places actually have that? Researchers have boiled it down to the top ten snowiest places in the US.
The decision was based on at least 10 years of accurate records of where people live. NOAA admits that the majority of its climate stations are in the south, where they never see snow. This is why Alaska does get snow, but it is not recorded.
Crater Lake, Oregon
Crater Lake, Oregon, ranks number 1 as the snowiest place in the US. It receives an annual amount of 463.1 inches. It gets snow every month of the year, for all of you snow enthusiasts. This is measured at only 6,400 feet.
Alta, Utah
Alta, Utah, comes in as a close second with 458.3 inches of snow. It is known for skiing. It does sit higher in elevation at 8,700 feet.
Soda Springs, California
Next in the top five is Soda Springs, California. It receives 455 inches of snow each year. This is no surprise considering its location. It is along the Donner Pass, heading up out of Sacramento into the Sierra Nevada mountains. Although sitting at 6,800 feet, it does boast several ski resorts.
Crested Butte, Colorado
Crested Butte, Colorado, ranks fourth in snowfall. It sits 9,600 feet up. While this town gets 389 inches of snow, the nearest ski resort gets 236 inches.
Climax, Colorado
Clamax, Colorado, is near an abandoned mining town. It receives 294 inches of snow annually. It sits on the Continental Divide at 11,000 feet. It is about 70 miles southwest of Denver.
Next Five
Two East Coast cities rank among the next five: one in Vermont and the other in New Hampshire. Wyoming is also in this list.
Thoughts
Within a couple of hours of leaving these snowy areas, you can be near the ocean and in 65-degree temperatures. However, you will need to navigate snow-covered roads to leave the area. It can get messy. Be sure to notice the pointed roofs; they make snow slide down more easily.
The moral of the story: if you enjoy the snow, consider staying a while. Do not rush the roads clearing crews. You might want a camera to partake of the beauty.
