Where To Find Snow in Texas near Houston

 
Road to Fort Worth, Texas. Photo by Greg Westfall via Flickr 2.0

1. Dallas/Fort Worth

Elevation: 430'/653' respectively
Snowfall Months: December through mid-February
Drive Time from Houston: 3-4 hours

While these two neighboring cities only average about an inch of snow per year, they are also the closest drive from Houston, making the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex an easy choice for last minute travel when snow hits the ground. However, even if a trip to the area doesn't produce enough snow to frolic around in, there are tons of Things To Do in Dallas and Fort Worth with Kids.

2. Lubbock

Elevation: 3,202'
Snowfall Months: Late October through April, with the most likely chance of snow happening in the month of January
Drive Time from Houston: 8 hours

Coming in second on the list in terms of proximity is Lubbock, Texas, which falls squarely in the northwest sector of the state. Known as the birthplace to Buddy Holly, the city sees a whopping 7 inches of snow annually, with January being the most likely month to get some powder—though it has seen snow as early as late October and as late as early April in the past. While snowfall isn't guaranteed, when snow comes, it does so quickly and blankets the entire city, creating a winter wonderland that's not to be missed. 

Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Photo by Colin J. McMechan/CC-BY-2.0

3. Amarillo

Elevation: 3,605'
Snowfall Months: November through March, with the most likely chance of snow happening in the month of January
Drive Time from Houston: 9 hours

Amarillo by morning... We've all heard the song; have you actually ever made a trip out to this famous country song town? Situated in the panhandle of Texas, Amarillo averages the highest amount of snowfall per year, coming in around 17.9 inches annually. January typically sees the most snowfall, making it the ideal time to plan a trip, though snow as early as October has happened in the past. For the most scenic snow trip, we recommend heading to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, one of many state parks that offers family-friendly hikes and views that are made all the better when they're covered in a layer of white.

Related: 10 State Parks Near Houston with Lakes, Beaches, and Hiking

Build a snowman at Big Bend National Park. Photo courtesy of NPS

4. Big Bend National Park

Elevation: 7,832'
Snowfall Months: December and January
Drive Time from Houston: 9 hours

While rare, the higher elevations at Big Bend National Park do see some snowfall throughout the winter months, usually starting at 3,500' and higher. January and December are the coldest months at Big Bend, and thus are your best bets at catching snow-capped mountains when you visit the park, especially if you hike the Chisos Mountain trails. But even if the only snow you see up there is on the tip-top mountain peaks, we still think it's worth a visit, because there are some views that just can't be replicated.

Little kids who might not sit through a long car drive and hike up a mountain might prefer these Amazing Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails in Houston.

5. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Elevation: 8,751'
Snowfall Months: December and January
Drive Time from Houston: 10 hours

Situated in far West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park peaks at 8,751' and averages a little less than an inch of snow per year. The mountain range offers stellar hiking and camping, and if you go during the months of December and January you just may get a snowy hike as you get to the higher elevations in the park. It's worth noting that pets are prohibited on most trails, so if you're planning a visit out this way, you might want to consider leaving your furry friends at home. Closer to home, you can take your pet to Lake Houston for a fun hike!

6. El Paso

Elevation: 3,740'
Snowfall Months: November through April, with the most likely chance of snow happening in the month of December
Drive Time from Houston: 10 hours and 30 minutes

It's the extreme ends of Texas that are known for their weather, be it the heat of the east and south or the cold of the north and west, and far West Texas - El Paso, to be exact - has earned its spot on the snow list. Averaging 3.4 inches of snow per year, this border town boasts some beautiful views when covered in powder, especially if you head to Franklin Mountains State Park. December is the snowiest month, clocking in with nearly 2 inches of snow on average.