Does it snow in Iowa? Yes, it does, but the amount of snowfall certainly varies by region. Northcentral Iowa experiences some incredible snowstorms. This is historically the snowiest part of the state. Moreover, this region is home to the single snowiest city in Iowa: Mason City. Charming to visit in any season, Mason City is nothing short of a winter wonderland during the colder months. Here’s a glimpse at what life looks like inside the snowiest city in Iowa:

In Mason City, an average of 41 inches of snow falls each winter according to the NOAA National Climatic Data Center. That’s the most snowfall of any Iowa town.
David Kinsey/Flickr
Almost every winter, this town sees a snowstorm with a significant amount of snow.
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In 2016, a snowstorm broke a 26-year-old record of 5.3 inches on March 12 of 1991.
Also in 2016, the entire area got heavy late-season snow. Palo Alto and Emmer counties got about 13 inches of snow.
Michael Leland/Flickr
Mason City handles heavy snowfall by alerting residents to snow emergencies. They are required to move their cars so snowplows are able to do a good job of moving the white stuff off of roads.
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Many Iowa towns have emergency snow routes where parking isn’t allowed during the winter months if snowplows are out.
Michael Leleand/Flickr
The city prepares for winter by stockpiling salt and sand to help keep roads from becoming slippery.
qrevolution/Flickr

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Main routes see action from snowplows first, of course. Even though they may work through the night during heavy snow, Mason City residents may still have to navigate through snowy or icy roads in town.
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The city has snow removal guidelines for sidewalks that include walks and ramps that lead to street crosswalks.
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Citizens are required to remove snow from sidewalks within 48 hours of accumulation of more than one inch of snow.
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Mason City residents also must clear the area around over 1,200 fire hydrants each time it snows to help the fire department.
Michael Leland/Flickr
Like most Iowa towns, Mason City has a fleet of snow removal vehicles.
Michael Leleand/Flickr
Iowans are accustomed to driving in snowy and icy conditions. We are also accustomed to the pleasures of staying at home and waiting out the storm.
Schwar/Flickr

So, now you’ll be prepared the next time you’re asked “does it snow in Iowa?” Have you ever visited the snowiest city in Iowa during the wintertime? Where do you live in Iowa? Do you think the snowfall has decreased over the past few years? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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Does It Snow In Iowa

Beth C. | November 11, 2021

What is Iowa like in the winter?

Like many midwestern states, Iowa sees its fair share of freezing weather and snow come wintertime. January temperatures experience an average of 14 degrees F in the northwestern parts and the low 20s in the southeast. Heavy snowfalls are possible in almost every region, and it's typical for snowfall to occur between late fall and early spring. That being said, Iowa is also a beautiful place to spend the winter. Just be sure to bundle up!

What are the best winter attractions in Iowa?

If you're braving winter in Iowa, you'll be delighted to hear that there are plenty of attractions that will help you embrace the season. Some of the most popular winter attractions in Iowa include Sundown Mountain Resort in Dubuque, Seven Oaks Recreation in Boone, Benton Skating Plaza in Des Moines, Wells Fargo Arena for an Iowa Wild game, Jester Park Equestrian Center (which offers sleigh rides), Ledges State Park for snowshoeing, Victorian Pines Christmas Tree Farm in State Center, Orange City of Sinterklaas Day, Santa's Castle in Storm Lake, the Pioneer Village Christmas Wonderland in Le Mars, and Grumpsters Log Cabins. Learn more about these cozy winter destinations in Iowa.

Does Iowa have any winter hikes?

If your idea of a perfect winter afternoon involves some quality time outside, you'll be pleased to learn that there are lots of winter-friendly trails in Iowa. Some of our top recommendations include Pikes Peak State Park, High Trestle Trail, Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, Yellow River State Forest, Puddle Jumper Trail, Gray's Lake Park, Bruce Schomaker Recreation Area, Ledges State Park, Dolliver State Park, Lake MacBride State Park, Backbone State Park, and Trout Run Trail. Learn more about these cold-weather trails in Iowa you'll love.

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