Snowfall: The Season of Anticipation

What date will we get the first measurable snow in Estes Park? This is the question that is readily on my mind this time of the year. As the days grow shorter and the mornings are cooler and crisper, I feel a sense of anticipation in the air.

I look forward to the first snowfall of the season with a mix of excitement and wistfulness. It marks the beginning of winter in all its beauty. I like the change of season and the quietness of snowfall with the way it transforms the landscape and the atmosphere. The snowfall also marks closure on the warm summer days.

I am grateful to live in an environment now that has such distinct seasons, although people might argue that fall is way too brief when the first snow is put into the mix. After years of living where snow was mostly an anomaly, snow is inevitable here. The unique aspect is that we often see it high in the mountains before we experience it on the ground in our yards.

First Snowfall on Longs Peak, September 22, 2014 (Photo by Deb Bialeschki)

I love the anticipation of the answer to this perennial question about the first snowfall in the mountains and in town. The question is discussed with friends as well as strangers.

For almost 10 years, my friends and I have held a contest to predict the first measurable snowfall in Estes Park each year. The measurement occurs at noon on the snowfall date on a stump in an open meadow in town. At least one inch must be on the stump. The facilitator, Deb, sends an email to people along with a Google document to sign up for predicted days. It costs $1 for each guess with up to five opportunities. The money is collected and when the snowfall arrives, the winner receives the take. If no one has chosen the date, all donations go to the Pet Association of Estes. Usually, the winner also donates the earnings to the Pet Association since we all support this organization.

As the days creep closer to winter and the first flakes fall from the sky, anticipation builds not just for the snow itself, but for the experiences it brings—moments of wonder, joy, and the peace that winter can offer. Of course, whoever wins our pool gets bragging rights regarding snowfall prediction for the coming year!