Best Time to Visit Denver, Colorado

The best time to visit Denver is in the spring, from March to May, and in the summer, between June and August. These months offer the finest weather of the year, perfect for enjoying Colorado’s spectacular landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities.

Spring is a wonderful time to see the wildflowers blooming after winter. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, and it’s slightly less busy than other times of the year. Summer has fantastic weather with sunny days and loads of outdoor activities to enjoy, including heading into the Rocky Mountains. If you plan on visiting Denver in the summer, though, avoid traveling in July, as it’s the busiest month of the year with the biggest crowds. Alternatively, winter is a winner if you love snow-based sports!

Not sure when to plan your Mile High City vacation? Discover when to go to Colorado’s capital city with this comprehensive Denver weather guide by season and month!

Weather in Denver

By season

Spring

When the winter snows begin to melt, and the weather becomes warmer in spring, Colorado’s beautiful landscapes come alive. Wildflowers begin to bloom, animals awake from hibernation, and it’s the perfect time to head outdoors around Denver.

While winter lingers in the mountains until at least May, Denver enjoys longer days and warmer temperatures. You’ll experience average daily temperatures of around 43°F (6°C) in March, warming up through April to 59°F (6°C) in May.

Denver Botanical Garden in Spring

Denver can be an enigmatic canvas in spring, with glorious sunny skies turning into snowstorms with hail overnight. But it’s still a wonderful time to get out and about and enjoy the great outdoors while you can—just be sure to pack warm outdoor gear and a good jacket!

Spring welcomes the new baseball season, and the city’s MLB team, the Colorado Rockies, begins playing at Coors Field. It’s also the perfect time to grease the cogs of your mountain bike and hit the 850 miles of paved trails in and around Denver.

If you haven’t had enough skiing, there’s still time to hit the slopes, with many ski resorts staying open until the end of May.

Summer

Summer is a glorious time in Colorado when the landscapes’ incredible hues are fully displayed. Temperatures begin to warm up, ranging from 70°F (21°C) in June to 75°F (23°C) in July. Days are long and sunny, and there’s a joyful energy in the air with people enjoying the outdoors.

The city enjoys summers without much humidity, and the list of fun activities to do in Denver is endless. From hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding to river rafting, kayaking, and rock climbing, you can fill every day in Denver with a different adventure!

Colorado Capitol in Summer

Summer is also festival season, with Denver’s exploding music scene at its peak. The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a spectacular venue for outdoor concerts with big hitters, including the Underground Music Showcase, PrideFest, and the Cherry Creek Arts Festival in the Cherry Creek neighborhood.

As summer is the tourist high season, summertime is super busy, with flights and hotel prices hitting their highest levels. It’s a good idea to book your vacation well ahead to score better deals.

Fall

For spectacular fall foliage, few places in the world can rival Colorado. The ever-changing hues of fall are nothing less than breathtaking, and the beautiful fall colors can be seen on trees all around Denver. The autumn months are the ideal time for hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking to experience this natural phenomenon.

The wavering orange, yellow, and red fall leaves also set the tone for other changes, like shorter days and cooling temperatures. Day temperatures drop to around 65°F (18°C) in September and by the end of October are a crisp 52°F (11°C). While fauna and flora become dormant, the turn of the season is celebrated with festivals.

City Park in Fall

Fall is a fantastic time to experience Denver’s world-renowned brewing scene, with plenty of beer-related events, including the Denver Beer Fest, the Great American Beer Festival, and Oktoberfest on Larimer Square.

If you prefer grapes to hops, head to Taste of Colorado and the Denver Food and Wine Festival. Football fans take to the stands for the NFL season to see the Denver Broncos in action at the Mile High Stadium.

Winter

Winter in Denver is all about the snow and the world-class snow sports it provides. Icy temperatures bring heavy snowfall, creating the perfect conditions for a myriad of activities, from skiing and snowboarding to cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, sledding, and ice climbing.

Temperatures are decidedly chilly, ranging from 49°F (9°C) to 43°F (6°C) in January, but ideal for snow-based fun. Denver is close to a host of exceptional ski resorts, from the nearby Echo Mountain Resort, only an hour from Downtown Denver, to the world-renowned Vail Ski Resort, about 2 hours west in the town of Vail.

Downtown Denver in Winter

Winter is one of Denver’s busiest times, with skiers and snowboarders flocking in from around the country to hit the slopes in Colorado’s most beautiful mountain towns. Hotels and resorts are fully booked; make reservations well in advance.

Despite the cold temperatures, there are still a few festivals to enjoy during winter, including the Denver Film Festival and Blossoms of Light in November and the National Western Stock Show in January.

By month

January

Denver’s weather in January is usually frigid, with day temperatures averaging 32°F (-0.2°C). Nights are even colder, with the mercury dropping to around -3.5°F (-20°C).

Denver Art Museum in January

However, typical of Denver, some winter days can reach highs of 65.5°F (18.5°C). You can enjoy an average of seven hours of sunshine a day and gentle breezes of 10 mph.

Despite the teeth-chattering cold, January is an ideal time to head into the mountains for snow-based sports. Denver is within a short drive from several world-class ski resorts, and January is the peak time to bundle up in layers and hit the slopes for some winter outdoor adventures.

If you aren’t in the mood for skiing or snowboarding, Denver has some fantastic art galleries and museums to explore. Wander around the Denver Art Museum or sample local ales at the Winter Brew Fest. It’s also a great time to hit those January sales!

February

The weather remains the same in February – cold and clear. Day temperatures are a fraction warmer, with the mercury averaging around 34°F (1°C), but some days can be gloriously warm, with temperatures reaching 67.5°F (19.5°C). You’ll have half an hour of extra sunshine in February to stay out on the slopes.

Denver Skyline in February

The wintry weather in February calls for eating and drinking, and Denver is home to several award-winning craft breweries. Take a guided food tour through the city and taste some of the Mile High City’s tastiest grub. Warm up with tea at the historic Brown Palace and enjoy flights and bites on a Denver Wine Walk.

March

Things are beginning to change in March, with the temperatures getting a little warmer and days a little longer. You can enjoy eight hours of sunshine a day with average temperatures of around 50°F (10°C); nights, however, are still a rather frosty 27.5°F (-2.5°C).

Wings Over the Rocks - Air and Space Museum in March

Snowstorms still occur during the month, keeping the slopes smooth with powder-soft snow and perfect for skiing. Most ski resorts stay open until the end of March, so this month is the time to squeeze the last runs of winter into your itinerary.

March is also a great time to explore attractions in the city, both indoors and outdoors. Head to the Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park to have some fun on the ice. Take in some art and culture at the Clyfford Still Museum. Or try your hand at snowboarding in the city at the Ruby Hill Rail Yard urban park.

April

Spring is on the way, and April sees temperatures in Denver rise into the 60s. Days begin to thaw out with the mercury hanging around 61°F (16°C) and the sun shining for up to nine hours a day. April is a wonderful time to get out into nature for some hiking and mountain biking.

Sports Authority Field Denver in April

Enjoy a spring hike at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre or begin training for the Colfax Marathon in May. Some Colorado ski resorts like Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge, and Loveland Ski Area stay open until May and offer great spring ski specials.

April is also the last month to find budget-friendly hotel deals before crowds begin arriving in May.

May

May is a wonderful time of the year in Denver. The weather is mild, with temperatures averaging a pleasant 70°F (21°C), and days are sunny and long, with around 9.5 hours of sunshine. This month is ideal for enjoying Denver’s spectacular landscapes, and hiking and mountain biking are the order of the day.

Cinco De Mayo Parade in May

Hit the 850 miles of paved trails in and around Denver on your bike, or head into the hills to see carpets of blooming wildflowers. Visit one of the amazing state parks near Denver, like Cherry Creek State Park and Chatfield State Park, where you can enjoy fishing, sailing, and swimming. Or hit the road to check out other popular Colorado cities like Colorado Springs or Fort Collins.

May is also the month that festivals begin again—and there are a few on the calendar that shouldn’t be missed. Take in some art at the Denver Arts Festival or kick back to some jazz at the Five Points Jazz Fest.

Other noteworthy events in May include Cinco de Mayo, Denver Day of the Rock, and The BigWonderful.

June

June is one of the best months to visit Denver. Long, sunny days, warm temperatures, and cool evenings make this month perfect for outdoor activities. From hiking and mountain biking to horseback riding and rock climbing, you’ll find a ton of fun things to do in Denver and its beautiful surroundings.

Downtown Denver in June

Day temperatures range from 68°F (20°C) to 80°F (26°C), with nights a cool 52°F (11°C). The sun shines for an average of 10.5 hours a day, which last around 15 hours. The summer solstice falls on June 21 and is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

The fantastic weather and long days create a buzzing, energetic atmosphere around Denver. Festivals abound, with plenty of special events to enjoy. Some of the top gigs in Denver in June include PrideFest, Juneteenth, and the Denver BBQ Festival.

July

July is the busiest month of the year, and Denver swells with visitors. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures averaging 88°F (31°C) and highs of 96°F (35°C). There can also be pretty heavy rainfall during July. And while this may put a damper on your picnic, it cools things down nicely.

4th of July at Civic Center Park

The great weather makes July the most popular month for visiting Denver; room prices at the best Denver hotels will be at their highest, and availability is low. Be sure to book well in advance if you’re planning on heading to Denver during July.

Outdoor activities are best enjoyed in the morning to avoid the heat of the day, while afternoons can be spent browsing Denver’s fantastic art galleries and museums and checking out historical buildings like the Colorado State Capitol in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. The Cherry Creek Arts Festival and the Denver Country Fair are the top festivals in July and are worth checking out.

August

August is the hottest month of the year, with temperatures reaching highs of 99°F (37.5°C) and the sun shining for up to 10 hours a day. Nights are beginning to cool down with average temperatures of 49°F (9.5°C), so take a jacket for evenings out.

University of Denver in August

Escape the heat of the day by getting out in the mornings. Embark on some of the most popular Denver day trips to head into the dense forests of the state parks in the region for cool, shady hikes and mountain biking trails. Hit the water in Bear Creek Lake Park’s Soda Lakes and spend the day paddleboarding, swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

Another great way to keep cool with your toes in the water, surrounded by spectacular scenery, is a tubing adventure from Golden’s Clear Creek to Littleton’s South Platte River. Enjoy summer concerts in the evenings at the Denver Botanic Gardens and kick back to Shakespeare at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival.

September

September is another one of the best times to visit Denver as the heat of summer begins to wane and the tourists begin to head home. The weather is pleasant and warm, with day temperatures ranging between 65°F (18.2°C) and 77 °F (25°C) and temperatures at night dipping down to 50°F (10°C).

Tech Center Denver in September

You can still enjoy up to nine hours of sunshine a day, and the pleasant temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking. September is also a great time to soak up the beautiful views or spend a few days camping in one of the national and state parks in the region. Among the favorites in these parts are Rocky Mountain National Park and Cherry Creek State Park.

Autumn is the time for food, beer, and wine, and September is packed with culinary festivals and events. Top-notch events include a Taste of Colorado, the Denver Food & Wine Festival, and the Denver Beer Fest. Celebrate the world-renowned Oktoberfest at Colorado’s own version, the Oktoberfest on Larimer Square in Lower Downtown (LoDo) Denver.

October

Autumn is in full swing, and temperatures begin to drop towards the end of October. You can experience average day temperatures of 63°F (17°C), while nights are much cooler at 37°F (2.8°C). Days now last around 11 hours on average, with around eight hours of sunshine each day.

Washington Park Denver in October

The month of October is still a lovely time for getting out into nature on your holidays. The spectacular countryside around the city is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. October is the ideal month to take in the ever-changing fall colors in the breathtaking foliage around Denver. You’ll need to bring a light jacket during the daytime as there’s a slight chance of rain.

There are plenty of activities in Denver in October, from getting lost in the Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Corn Maze to the Wild Fall/Trick-or-Treat Trail at the Denver Zoo to dancing the night away at the Denver Halloween Ball. Sample some of the state’s finest brews at the Great American Beer Festival.

November

Winter is on the way as the weather begins to turn, with temperatures dropping and snow on the way. Days are sunny and clear but cold, with temperatures averaging around 50°F (10°C). Nights are bitterly cold now, with the mercury dipping below zero.

Mile High City in November

Winter makes The Mile High City sparkle, with November marking the beginning of the ski season. Denver is the world’s largest après ski town, and visitors flock to the city to hit the slopes nearby. Hotel prices rise this month; book your lodgings in advance to avoid disappointment.

There are loads of fun events and festivals to enjoy around Denver in November. Celebrate the Christmas holiday season at the decades-old Denver tradition of the Blossoms of Light and the Annual Festival of Wreaths. Take in some art from emerging local artists at the Denver Arts Week.

December

December may be the coldest month of the year in Denver, but it’s full of cheer! Ski season is in full swing, and world-class mountain resorts like Vail and Breckenridge are packed. Temperatures are snow-cold, with the mercury averaging 44°F (7°C) during the day and 18.3°F (-8°C) at night.

Union Station Train Depot in December

Days last around nine hours with 6.5 hours of sunshine. The shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice, falls on December 21st. Despite the shorter days, you’ll find loads to do in Denver, with something for everyone in your travel group, from snow-based sports like skiing and snowboarding to seasonal markets and food fairs.

Celebrate the Christmas season at the Cherry Creek North Winter Wanderland. Marvel at the Mile High Tree in the heart of Denver and show off your ice-skating skills at the Downtown Denver Rink. Don’t miss the New Year’s celebrations in Downtown Denver and the fantastic fireworks display.

Treksplorer

Ryan O'Rourke is a seasoned traveler and the founder & editor of Treksplorer, a fiercely independent guide to mid-range luxury travel for busy people. With over 20 years of extensive travel experience, Ryan has journeyed through over 50 countries, uncovering hidden gems and sharing firsthand, unsponsored insights on what to see & do and where to eat, drink & stay. Backed by his travel experience and in-depth research, Ryan’s travel advice and writing has been featured in publications like the Huffington Post and Matador Network. You can connect with Ryan on Twitter/X at @rtorourke.

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