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I still remember my first winter road trip into the mountains. The excitement of seeing snow was mixed with a real sense of unease about the drive.
A Houston to Colorado drive December trip is a fantastic idea, turning a simple drive into a visit to one of America’s best romantic snowy Christmas destinations.
But it requires a different mindset than a typical Texas road trip.
This guide is built from my experiences to give you the practical steps for a safe and enjoyable journey.
We will cover the best route to take, how to prepare your car, what to pack, and the specific rules you need to know before you even see a snowflake.
Your Houston to Colorado Drive December Route Plan
The drive is roughly 1,000 miles, which clocks in at about 16-17 hours without stops. I see people ask, is driving 15 hours straight too much for one person?
In winter conditions, the answer is a definite yes.
Pushing through is not just tiring; it’s dangerous. Using a good road trip planner for multiple stops helps you visualize the journey and commit to a safe pace.
My advice is to always split the trip into two manageable days. This makes the drive more pleasant and, most importantly, much safer.
⚠️Driver Fatigue is a Real Danger
Driving tired is as risky as driving impaired. Winter conditions demand your full attention—from watching for ice patches to reacting to other drivers. An overnight rest is your best safety tool.
Day 1: Houston to Amarillo, Texas (The Easy Leg)
The first day is straightforward.
You’ll head northwest out of Houston on US-290, connecting to I-35 and eventually US-287. This leg is about 600 miles or 9-10 hours of driving.
The roads are flat and familiar. Your goal is to get to Amarillo with enough time to rest well before the more demanding part of your journey begins.
Where to Stay in Amarillo
Amarillo is full of reliable, clean, and safe hotels perfect for an overnight stop.
I recommend booking something near the highway for easy departure in the morning.
A reliable choice right off I-40, which is your route.
Clean rooms and a good breakfast to get you started for day two.
Usually costs around $105-$125 a night.
It’s a practical, no-fuss stop, just what you need.
Another solid option known for being clean and comfortable.
They often have evening snacks and drinks, which can be nice after a long drive.
Expect to pay about $85-$115 for a room.
Good value for what you get, very dependable.
Day 2: Amarillo to Denver (The Mountain Approach)
From Amarillo, you’ll continue on US-287 North until you merge with I-25 in Pueblo, Colorado.
This leg is shorter, around 450 miles or 7-8 hours. The scenery and road conditions can change fast.
You will gain elevation as you head north, especially after crossing into Colorado through Raton Pass.
This is where winter weather becomes a major factor.
How Bad Are the Roads from Texas to Colorado in Snow?
This is the big question. The answer depends completely on the weather at that moment.
The roads can be perfectly dry and clear one day, and icy or snow-covered the next.
Raton Pass on the New Mexico-Colorado border is the first major high-elevation area.
It is well-maintained but can be treacherous during a storm.
The stretch from Pueblo to Denver along I-25 can also see sudden snow squalls. The key is not to guess but to check official sources constantly.
- Colorado (CDOT): COtrip.org is your best friend. Has road cameras and real-time alerts. Note that some mountain pass cameras were removed in 2025, but the service remains fully operational.
- New Mexico: NMRoads.com for conditions through the northern part of the state.
- Texas: DriveTexas.org will get you safely to the state line.
Preparing Your Vehicle: A Checklist
Before diving into vehicle specifics, it’s wise to handle the basics of preparing your house for a long trip so you can travel with peace of mind.
For anyone driving to Colorado with no snow experience, getting your vehicle ready is the most important step you can take.
A problem-free car is a safer car.
I use a simple checklist before any winter trip. Taking an hour to check these things at home can save you a huge headache on the road.
Your tires are everything, don’t be cheap here.
They must have good tread, at least 3/16th of an inch deep.
All-season tires marked ‘M+S’ (mud and snow) are the minimum required by law.
Check tire pressure before you leave; cold air can lower it.
Make sure your antifreeze is rated for very low temperatures.
Fill your windshield washer fluid with a de-icing formula.
A weak battery will die in the cold, have it tested if it’s over three years old.
An auto parts store can do this for you, usually for free.
Understanding Colorado’s Winter Traction Law
This is a big one that catches many out-of-state drivers by surprise.
From September 1 to May 31, Colorado has a Traction Law that can be activated on all its highways, especially I-25 and I-70.
⚠️Know the Law: Avoid Fines and Accidents
If the Traction Law is active, your vehicle MUST have either snow tires, M+S (mud and snow) tires with 3/16″ tread, or be using chains or an alternative traction device. Fines for not having proper equipment start at $50 plus a $17 surcharge, and can exceed $650 if you cause a blockage. Winter driving safety tips are also available from the National Weather Service.
What to Pack: Your Winter Emergency Kit
Beyond your luggage, a dedicated winter emergency kit in your car is non-negotiable.
If you get stuck in a road closure or slide off the road, these items will be critical.
Pack extra warm blankets, or even a sleeping bag. Many of the techniques used to stay warm backpacking in the cold are useful here.
Bring water and non-perishable snacks like granola bars.
A phone power bank is essential for communication.
Also toss in a flashlight with extra batteries.
A sturdy ice scraper and snow brush are a must.
Pack a small, collapsible shovel for digging out tires.
A bag of cat litter or sand provides great traction if you’re stuck.
Jumper cables are always a good idea in any season.
Top 5 Tips for Driving in Snow for the First Time
If you’ve spent your life driving in Houston, snow and ice require a complete change in your habits.
These are the five rules I live by when driving in winter weather.
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Go Slow and Be Gentle
Every action—braking, turning, accelerating—must be slow and smooth. Sudden movements cause skids. Cut your normal speed in half as a starting point.
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Massively Increase Following Distance
It can take up to ten times longer to stop on ice. The typical 3-second following rule is not enough. Leave 8-10 seconds of space between you and the car ahead.
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Don’t Fight a Skid
If your car starts to slide, stay calm. Look and steer in the direction you want the car to go. Gently ease your foot off the accelerator. Do not slam on the brakes.
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See and Be Seen
Always drive with your headlights on, even during the day. Clear all snow and ice from your windows, mirrors, lights, and roof before you start driving.
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Know When Not to Go
The best way to handle a bad storm is to avoid it. If the forecast is severe or road conditions are listed as poor, wait it out. A hotel room is cheaper than an accident.
FAQs: Your Questions on the Houston to Colorado Drive
Is it safe to drive to colorado in winter?
Yes, it is safe if you are prepared. This means splitting the drive into two days, having a vehicle with proper tires, packing an emergency kit, and constantly checking road conditions. Safety is about preparation, not luck. A solid cross country road trip plan is the foundation of a safe journey.
How bad are the roads from texas to colorado in snow?
The roads can range from completely clear to extremely dangerous. The critical sections are Raton Pass and the I-25 corridor in Colorado. Conditions can change in minutes. Always trust official sources like COtrip.org over your GPS app for closures.
What if I am driving to colorado with no snow experience?
This guide is your starting point. The most important things are to slow down, leave extra space, and avoid driving in active snowstorms if possible. Find a large, empty parking lot after the first snowfall to get a feel for how your car handles when braking and turning on a slippery surface.
Is driving 15 hours straight too much for one person?
Yes, it is too much, especially in winter. The mental focus required for winter driving is intense. Driving fatigued dramatically increases your risk of an accident. The safe and smart choice is to stop for the night in a place like Amarillo.
What is the most difficult part of the drive from Houston to Colorado in winter?
The most challenging section is typically Raton Pass on the New Mexico-Colorado border and the I-25 corridor from Pueblo to Denver. This is where you gain elevation and are most likely to encounter sudden snow, ice, and changing conditions.
Can I make the Houston to Colorado drive in a 2WD car in December?
Yes, a 2WD car is usually fine for the drive to Denver, provided you have good all-season tires marked ‘M+S’ with at least 3/16″ of tread depth. The key is to drive slowly, leave plenty of space, and avoid driving during active snowstorms.
Do I really need to buy snow chains for this drive?
For the drive to Denver on I-25, you likely won’t need to use them if your tires meet the Traction Law requirements. However, if you plan to drive west of Denver on I-70 into the mountains, having chains as a backup is a very smart and sometimes legally required precaution.
What is the best time of day to drive the Amarillo to Denver leg?
It is best to leave Amarillo early in the morning. This ensures you are driving the most challenging, higher-elevation parts of the route during daylight hours and gives you a buffer in case you encounter weather-related delays.
Are there other good places for an overnight stop besides Amarillo?
Amarillo is the most common and logical halfway point. Some drivers might stop earlier in Wichita Falls or later in Clayton, New Mexico. However, Amarillo offers the best selection of hotels and services right on the route and sets you up perfectly for the second day’s drive.