Most people skip Colorado in March. That is exactly why you should not. Ski resorts are still open. Festival season kicks off. Days get longer. Here is what is actually worth doing.
March brings spring events to Colorado. Winter starts to fade. Mountains stay snowy. Lower towns start to warm up. Outdoor lovers can enjoy late snow at ski resorts. Hikers and drivers can enjoy changing views.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Colorado?
March is generally a great time to visit Colorado. It mixes winter and early spring. Ski conditions are often at their best with deep snow and sunny days. Festivals add extra energy to mountain towns. Crowds can be busy during spring break weeks. They are quieter than peak winter holidays.
Weather can be unpredictable. Late snowstorms can change road conditions. Overall March is a sweet spot for good skiing and lively events. Crowds are slightly smaller than in peak season.
Annual March Festivals in Colorado
March is a chance to celebrate the last days of winter. It is also a chance to welcome spring. Days grow warmer. There is an event to enjoy almost every weekend.
11 Best Things to Do in Colorado in March
St. Patrick’s Day Delight
St Patrick’s Day celebrations take place across Colorado. Denver and Colorado Springs host two major parades. They are two of the best March events in the state.
Denver St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Denver St. Patrick’s Day parade is a yearly tradition. Residents and visitors love it. It is the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Colorado. It features floats and dancers and musicians.
When: Each March
Where: Downtown Denver
Colorado Springs St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The largest annual community event in Colorado Springs, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, runs through downtown Colorado Springs. It is a major community celebration.
When: Each March
Where: Downtown Colorado Springs
Boulder International Film Festival
The Boulder International Film Festival brings films to Boulder each spring. It draws filmmakers and fans. It offers a wide mix of stories.
When: Each year in late winter and early spring
Where: Boulder
Winter Wonder Grass
Winter Wonder Grass attracts music lovers to Steamboat Springs. It blends live bluegrass with mountain views. It is a relaxed winter music festival.
When: Each March
Where: Steamboat Springs
Frozen Dead Guy Days
Frozen Dead Guy Days is a quirky winter festival. It is now held in Estes Park. It celebrates community spirit with comedy and unusual contests.
When: Each March
Where: Estes Park
Monte Vista Crane Festival
The Monte Vista Crane Festival gives bird lovers a special experience. Visitors can watch sandhill cranes in the San Luis Valley. The cranes pass through the valley during spring migration.
When: Each March
Where: Monte Vista
Read Also: Things to do in April in Colorado
March Weather Denver
March in ski towns stays wintry. Lower valleys start to melt. Denver sees more mild days.
Peaks stay snow covered. Snow on roads and paths may start to clear. The state gets many sunny days. Air stays chilly and dry.
Average daily highs are often in the mid 50s Fahrenheit. Average lows are often in the low 30s. Higher areas stay much colder.
Also Read: Things to do in February in Colorado
Colorado Weather in March Week by Week
Early March
Early March still feels like winter in the mountains. Expect cold mornings. Expect frequent snowfall in ski towns. Cities like Denver are chilly but manageable.
Mid March
Mid March brings a transition. Warmer sunny days start to show up. Snowstorms are still common. Some are the biggest of the season. It is a good mix of powder skiing and mild afternoons.
Late March
Spring starts at lower elevations. Snow melts and temps rise. Ski resorts still have solid conditions. Weather becomes more unpredictable. Sun and slush and snow are all possible.
Colorado March Packing List
March weather can change fast in a single day. Pack layers. Pack a warm jacket and a waterproof layer. Pack sturdy shoes. Add sunglasses and sunscreen. This mix covers snow and spring sun.
Denver Restaurant Week
Denver Restaurant Week celebrates food and drink in Denver. It highlights local restaurants and chefs. It is a good time to try new places in the city.
The event was created to showcase Denver food during a quiet time of year. It now highlights creative menus across the city. Check the official event site for current dates and menus.
Restaurants offer multi course menus for the event. Menus and prices change each year. Check the official site before you book.
Rocky Mountain National Park March Magic
Summer is not the only good season for Rocky Mountain National Park. March is a quiet time to visit. Snow covered peaks fill the views. Visitors can snowshoe and enjoy scenery. Some trails need winter gear. See our guide to things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park for more ideas.
Colorado Skiing Delights
Some ski resorts offer night skiing. Keystone and Steamboat Springs and Granby Ranch and Howelsen Hill and Echo Mountain are known for it. You can also read our Wolf Creek Ski Resort Guide for another resort option.
Night skiing runs during the ski season. It does not run all year. March and early April weather is often milder than midwinter. Schedules differ by resort. Check resort websites before you go.
Hot Springs in March
March is a good time for a hot spring soak. Cold air and warm water make a strong contrast. Soak after a ski day. Book ahead during spring break weeks. For more cold weather ideas, see our guide to winter vacations in Colorado.
Mud Season in Colorado
Mud season is the gap between winter and summer. Snow melts on lower trails. Trails can be soft and muddy. Wear sturdy shoes. Use marked trails.
Mud season is a good time for towns and museums and low elevation walks. Ski resorts may still be open higher up. Check resort and trail conditions before you go.
March in Colorado gives you winter and spring in one trip. You can ski in the morning. You can walk a sunny town in the afternoon. You can end the day at a festival or a hot spring. Plan for snow and sun. Check event dates before you travel. Then enjoy the quieter side of Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Colorado worth visiting in March?
Yes. March gives you skiing and festivals in one trip. Ski resorts are open. Crowds are often smaller than in peak winter.
What is the weather like in Colorado in March?
Weather is mixed. Mountains stay cold and snowy. Cities are milder. Expect sun and snow in the same week.
Are ski resorts open in March?
Yes. Most resorts are fully open in March. March often brings good snow and longer days.
What should I pack for Colorado in March?
Pack warm layers and a waterproof jacket. Add sturdy shoes. Add sunglasses and sunscreen for bright snow days.
Is it crowded in March during spring break?
It can be busy at ski resorts during spring break weeks. Outside those weeks crowds are moderate.
Can you hike in Colorado in March?
Yes at lower elevations with less snow. Mountain trails may still need winter gear. Check trail conditions before you go.
