Discover the 9 Coldest States In November

As fall switches to winter, it is expected to feel dramatic temperature changes. Winter can mean different things depending on where you are in the world. Each state has its traditional ways of embracing winter, but which states are the coldest? We all know Alaska fits the description, but other states don’t fall too far from the cold trend. The coldest states listed in this article will include the most frigid recorded temperatures, the average temperatures felt, and what fun activities you can enjoy in November!

1. Alaska

Alaska is undoubtedly top of the list for the coldest state in the U.S., regardless of month or season. The average temperature in November is 33 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 22 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The coldest recorded temperature in Alaska was negative 79.8 degrees Fahrenheit at Prospect Creek on January 23, 1971. This cold state was a Russian Colony until 1867 and was made a U.S. state in 1959. There are plenty of activities to get into in November, such as riding fat tire bikes, hiking, and whale watching. If snow falls or is already on the ground, you can go skiing downhill in Anchorage.

2. North Dakota

North Dakota has an average temperature of 30 degrees Fahrenheit in November. The coldest recorded temperature was negative 60 degrees Fahrenheit in Parshall on February 2, 1936. If you think that is crazy, wait until you read about a mind-blowing weather story that occurred on November 1, 2000. A weather system, The Colorado Low System, hit, causing five tornadoes around the Bismarck area. The weather system can include rain, snow, or high winds. On the same day, near the border of Montana, people were experiencing a blizzard! A blizzard and tornadoes on the same day in different areas are insane! Bottineau is one place to visit while in North Dakota in November. Turtle Mountain Forest is 7,500 acres filled with outdoor opportunities. Winter Park Resort has a 30-foot statue of Tommy the Turtle on a Snowmobile. North Dakota is the leader in producing spring wheat, canola, flaxseed, and honey. 

3. Wyoming

Visiting Wyoming in November is the perfect time to enjoy what it offers without too many tourists. Wyoming is cold and breezy, experiencing average temperatures of 34 to 47 degrees Fahrenheit. The capital of Wyoming is Cheyenne, and it is home to over 500,000 people. There is usually a thirty-one percent chance of rain or snow on an average day. On February 9, 1933, the coldest temperature reported was negative 66 degrees Fahrenheit in Yellowstone Park. You can take a wildlife tour in Wyoming to observe elk, moose, bison, and fox. Not only are there many outdoor activities to do, but Wyoming has many firsts. Wyoming was the first state in the Union to grant women the right to vote. The first JCPenney was opened here in Kemmerer.

4. Montana

Montana has average temperatures of 31 to 43 degrees Fahrenheit in November. The coldest recorded temperature was negative 70 degrees Fahrenheit in Rogers Pass on January 20, 1954. The capital of Montana is Helena, and is home to over one million people. The Blackfeet, Crow, and Cheyenne Native American tribes are part of that population. Wildlife such as bison, coyote, bald eagles, and badgers also call Montana home. The name Montana derives from the Spanish word “Montana,” meaning mountains, which fits because there are three hundred mountain peaks here. In November, you can experience dog sledding or soaking in the hot springs in the western part of the state.

5. Minnesota

Minnesota is another cold and breezy state experiencing average temperatures of 25 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit in November. The coldest record temperature was negative 60 degrees Fahrenheit on February 2, 1996. The capital of Minnesota is St. Paul, and the state has a population of over five million people. During November, visit the Duluth and Split Rock Lighthouse for scenic views of the lake. If you love to fish during the cooler months, visit the Cottonwood River. The Norsefest and Parade of Lights are hosted in Minnesota during November.

6. Maine

In November, northern Maine is much colder than the rest of the state. Average temperatures range from 25 to 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Maine typically experiences snow in the North during October and the rest in November. Negative 50 degrees Fahrenheit was Big Black River’s coldest recorded temperature on January 16, 2009. November is also the perfect time to see the Northern Lights at the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. Seafood lovers can enjoy the abundance of lobsters even during the chilly months of November and December. Maine also knows how to keep tourists and locals happy during this chilly month. The Early Bird Pajama Sale event that occurs this month provides discounts to those shopping in their pajamas. Another exciting event occurs during this time on Main Street called Bed Racing. Participants run down Main Street and hold a mattress to the finish line! 

7. Idaho

The potato state Idaho, experiences average temperatures of 20 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest recorded temperature was negative 60 degrees Fahrenheit on January 18, 1943, at Island Park Dam. Idaho is not a stranger to the rugged mountains, wild rivers, and hot springs. The population of Idaho is over one million people. The Bearclaw Trading Post is active during November, selling items from over seventy countries. Because Idaho is known for potatoes, they even have potato ice cream! Wildlife such as caribou, moose, and bears are seen all over the state.

8. Vermont

Vermont has many seasonal events to attend in November. Ski resorts begin to open, the chance of snowfall is high, and wildlife are scavenging for food before hibernation. November is mating season, so there may be an increased chance of witnessing antler wrestling amongst moose and deer. Vermont averages between 28 and 47 degrees Fahrenheit; however, the coldest temperature was negative 50 degrees Fahrenheit on December 30, 1933, in Bloomfield. While visiting Vermont, taste some warm syrup during the cold since this state is the number one syrup producer. It is estimated that 500,000 gallons of syrup are produced yearly here. Thanks, Vermont! Out of the fifty states, Vermont has the least amount of violent crimes.

9. Wisconsin

Wisconsin has so many activities for families to enjoy during the frigid temperatures. The average temperature seen here is between 30 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest recorded temperature was negative, 55 degrees Fahrenheit! Visit Milwaukee County for free entry on selected days between October and December. Green Bay hosts the Prevea Green Bay Holiday Parade. Their usual theme is A Taste of the Holidays. What way to bring in the holidays by celebrating with locals during a parade?

Summary Table

In conclusion, fall and winter do not have to always be associated with unbearable cold winters. As I have gotten older, I do not mind cold temperatures as long as I can find an activity to embrace it. Each state listed above has many things that can be enjoyed in November! Make sure to wrap up, get outside, and enjoy the season change from fall to winter!