Whether you plan on walking, biking or driving, here are nine resources and reminders to help you travel safely this winter.

Winter is here, and with snow comes slippery streets.  

On average, 5% of crashes in the city happen in winter conditions. Together we can bring this number down and achieve Vision Zero, a future with zero severe crashes.

Whether you plan on walking, biking or driving, here are six reminders to help you travel safely this winter.

Ready Your Route

A child holding a magnet that says Frostasaurus smiles while standing next to a snowplow

Snow crews work 24/7 to clear 425 miles of city streets and 73 miles of multi-use paths , prioritizing key routes like emergency connections.

Our response prioritizes different routes depending on the size of the storm: small, medium and large. This season, we're expanding our response on several streets with steep slopes. While these specific streets were previously addressed in medium and large storms, they will now also receive a response in small storms.

Check out the updated 2025-2026 program or plan your travel path with our interactive snow removal map.

Stay Seen

Darkness with two bikes barely visible with their headlights on

Turn your lights on and use reflective gear to stand out in the dark. Low visibility during longer winter nights makes it extra important to help others see where you are, whether you’re traveling on roads, sidewalks or multi-use paths.

Get a Grip

Tread on a car tire, bike tire and a shoe

Winterize your gear and check for traction on tires and shoes. Tread will help cut through ice and snow and give you a better grip to get to your destination safely.

  • If you plan on traveling on the highway, take a look at the State of Colorado's updated traction laws to make sure your vehicle follows requirements.
  • Riding a bike? Swapping in thicker winter tires or leaving your regular tires slightly deflated will give you more traction on snow and ice.
a collage of winter weather conditions

Take Your Time

Sun glare, slippery conditions and unpredictable weather are a recipe for danger. Budget a few extra minutes to plan, clear the snow off your ride, and travel at a responsible speed so you can arrive safely.

Expect Weather

Snow and ice are the name of the game. While snow staff work 24/7 when it snows to keep paths and roadways clear, ice and snow can still cause big delays and make it difficult to get around.

If you must travel, plan ahead, take extra care, and give snow crews plenty of room to operate, as typical travel conditions cannot always be maintained during winter storms. Visit the Snow and Ice Response webpage to learn more about the city's approach to snow and ice.

Winged Snowplow
The city's "winged" snowplow needs extra room — steer clear when you see it!

a bus driving on Moorhead Avenue

Ride Along with the Pros

Consider taking the bus — many employers and neighborhoods offer discounted or free passes. Use the Boulder Bus Map to find bus stops and schedules near you. As of 2025, 82% of Boulder residents have convenient access to local or regional transit routes.

Prepare a Backup Plan

Stay home if you can, but if you can't, stay ahead of emergencies with our emergency preparation guide and by subscribing to emergency alerts.

Emergency Preparedness Mobile Phone Notification Icon

View Real-time Conditions on Camera

Watch the city's live traffic cameras to preview real-time conditions at major intersections, including Broadway and Canyon Drive, Foothills Parkway and Arapahoe Avenue, 28th Street and Colorado Avenue, and 28th Street and Iris Avenue.

Be Boulder

A person shoveling snow

Help your neighbors travel safely by doing your part to clear sidewalks or going the extra mile and volunteering.

  • Adopt a transit stop to clear snow and protect people from slips and falls.
  • Volunteer to clear sidewalks for community members who are unable to clear snow.
  • Shovel sidewalks. To keep people safe and help us all move around, anyone who lives on or owns private property is required to clear adjacent sidewalks within 24 hours after it stops snowing. Older adults who are unable to clear snow from their sidewalks may qualify for assistance from volunteers in Boulder County.
  • Celebrate the creativity of Boulder's youth: Life of a Snowgirl, Sleet Dreams and Lollaplowlooza are on snow duty this season, along with 15 other snowplows named by kids in Boulder. Look for the snowplows on city streets the next time it snows, or encourage youth in your life to participate in the naming contest next year.

Stay warm with the community spirit and stay safe on your travels this winter!

People enjoying a snowy street

Related

Keep Reading