The best time to visit Denver is in the spring, from March to May, and in the summer, from June to August. These months offer the finest weather of the year. It’s the perfect time, in my opinion, for enjoying Colorado’s spectacular landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities.
Spring is a wonderful season to see the wildflowers blooming after winter. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, and, after stopping in Denver in spring on my last road trip through the area, I noticed it was slightly less busy than other times of the year I’ve visited.
Summer offers fantastic weather with sunny days and a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy, including trips into the Rocky Mountains. If you plan on traveling to Denver in the summer, though, I’d recommend avoiding traveling in July. It’s the busiest month of the year with the biggest crowds. (And, in my experience, the number of summer tourists can get grating at times.)
Alternatively, winter is a winner if you love snow-based sports. I’d even go as far as to say that the temperatures probably aren’t nearly as frigid as the Mile High City’s reputation would predict. With a stroke of luck, I’ve even seen daytime temperatures in the peak winter months as high as 65°F (18°C), filled in with blue, sunny skies.
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, including my recommendations on what to expect, what to see & do, and what to wear!
Weather 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 I think 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. We can often experience average daily temperatures of around 43°F (6°C) in March, warming up through April to 59°F (15°C) in May.
Denver can be an enigmatic canvas in spring, with glorious sunny skies turning into snowstorms with hail overnight. But I still think it’s a wonderful time to get out and about and enjoy the great outdoors while you can.
My only caveat: Just be sure to pack warm outdoor gear and a good jacket. The temperatures can change quickly here, in my experience.
As a baseball fan, I love how spring welcomes the new baseball season, as the city’s MLB team, the Colorado Rockies, begins playing at Coors Field.
Although I haven’t spent time biking on my few trips here, I’ve heard from family & friends (who lived in the area for many years) that spring is 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. While researching for my cross-country road trips, I’ve seen many ski resorts around Denver stay 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 I’ve always felt a joyful energy in the air when I’ve rolled through in Denver in the summer, as I watch locals enjoying the outdoors.
Unlike many other US cities I’ve visited in the summer months, the Mile High 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, I’ve never been stuck for ideas to fill every day in Denver with a different adventure in summer.
Summer is also festival season, with Denver’s exploding music scene at its peak. The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the most spectacular venues I’ve ever seen for outdoor concerts with big hitters, including the Underground Music Showcase, PrideFest, and the Cherry Creek Arts Festival in the Cherry Creek neighborhood.
My only warning is that summer is the tourist high season. From my experience in visiting at this time of year, summertime can get super busy around town. Flights and hotel prices hit their highest levels during these high-season months.
I’d recommend booking your Denver summer vacation well ahead to score better deals.
Fall
For spectacular fall foliage, I haven’t seen many places in the world that can rival Colorado. The ever-changing hues of fall are nothing less than breathtaking, and we can see the beautiful fall colors on trees all around Denver.
In my experience, the autumn months are ideal 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. Daytime 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 in and around the city.
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, I’d suggest heading to Taste of Colorado and the Denver Food and Wine Festival. Although I’m not a big football fan, I’d still relish the opportunity to take to the stands for the NFL season on a fall trip here to see the Denver Broncos in action at the Mile High Stadium.
Winter
I probably don’t need to tell you that winter in Denver is all about the snow and the world-class snow sports that come with it. Icy temperatures bring heavy snowfall. It creates the perfect conditions for a myriad of fun winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, sledding, and ice climbing.
Temperatures can get decidedly chilly, ranging from 43°F (6°C) to 49°F (9°C) in January. But after spending much of my life in even more Northern climes, I think it’s 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.
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. Whenever I’ve researched a winter trip here, hotels and resorts are often nearly fully booked; I’d recommend making reservations well in advance.
Despite the cold temperatures, I’ve still found quite a few festivals travelers can enjoy during winter, including the Denver Film Festival and Blossoms of Light in November and the National Western Stock Show in January.
Weather by month
January
Denver’s weather in January is usually frigid, with temperatures averaging 36°F (2°C). Nights are even colder, with the mercury dropping to around 29°F (-2°C). Brrr!
However, typical of Denver, I’ve heard some winter days can reach as high as 65°F (18°C). You can enjoy an average of seven hours of sunshine a day and gentle breezes of 10 mph.
Despite the sometimes teeth-chattering cold, I think 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 like Vail and Breckenridge, 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, I’ve also found plenty of fantastic art galleries and museums to explore in Denver, and a couple of cool winter festivals.
Wander around the Denver Art Museum, sample local ales at the Winter Brew Fest, or kick back to some jazz at the Five Points Jazz Fest. It’s also a great time to hit those January sales!
- Avg. Temperature: 36°F / 2°C
- Avg. Low: 27°F / -3°C
- Avg. High: 43°F / 6°C
- Precipitation: 6.95 mm / 0.27 in
February
The weather remains the same in February—cold and clear. Day temperatures get a fraction warmer, with the mercury averaging around 32°F (0°C). Some days can even be gloriously warm, with temperatures reaching up to 64°F (18°C). I love the idea of having half an hour of extra sunshine in February to stay out on the slopes.
The wintry weather in February calls for eating and drinking. On my few trips to Denver, I’ve tried out several award-winning craft breweries that I loved, including Great Divide Brewing Co.
In winter, I’d also want to soak up the opportunity to 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.
- Avg. Temperature: 32°F / 0°C
- Avg. Low: 23°F / -5°C
- Avg. High: 39°C / 4°C
- Precipitation: 12.24 mm / 0.48 in
March
Things begin 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 43°F (6°C); nights, however, are still a rather frosty 33°F (0.5°C).
Snowstorms still occur during the month, keeping the slopes smooth with powder-soft snow and perfect for skiing. While researching trips here, I’ve noticed that most ski resorts stay open at least until the end of March. This month is the time to squeeze the last runs of winter into your Colorado trip itinerary.
Besides skiing, March is also a great time, in my opinion, to explore attractions in the city, both indoors and outdoors. I’d recommend heading 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.
- Avg. Temperature: 43°F / 6°C
- Avg. Low: 33°F / 0.5°C
- Avg. High: 49°F / 9°C
- Precipitation: 19.82 mm / 0.78 in
April
Spring is on the way, and in April, 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. With the warmer temperatures, I believe April is a wonderful time to get out into nature for some hiking and mountain biking.
Enjoy a spring hike at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre or (if you’re a little less lazy than I am) 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.
From my experience planning spring trips to Denver, I’d also say that April is the last month to find budget-friendly hotel deals before crowds begin arriving in May.
- Avg. Temperature: 50°F / 10°C
- Avg. Low: 39°F / 4°C
- Avg. High: 57°F / 14°C
- Precipitation: 15.95 mm / 0.63 in
May
In my opinion, May is a wonderful time of the year in Denver. The weather is mild, with temperatures averaging a pleasant 70°F (21°C). The days are sunny and long, with around 9.5 hours of sunshine.
I think this month is ideal for enjoying Denver’s spectacular landscapes. Hiking and mountain biking are the order of the day.
Hit the 850 miles of paved trails in and around Denver on your bike, or (even more unique for spring trips) 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 (my favorite!) or Fort Collins.
Denver’s festival season also kicks off in May—and there are a few on the calendar that I don’t think you should miss! Take in some art at the Denver Arts Festival over the Memorial Day weekend or celebrate the city’s Mexican culture at Cinco de Mayo.
Other noteworthy events in May include Denver Day of the Rock and The BigWonderful.
- Avg. Temperature: 60°F / 15°C
- Avg. Low: 49°F / 9°C
- Avg. High: 66°F / 19°C
- Precipitation: 36.94 mm / 1.45 in
June
June is one of the best months to visit Denver. Long, sunny days, warm temperatures, and cool evenings make this month, in my opinion, perfect for outdoor activities.
From hiking and mountain biking to horseback riding and rock climbing, I always find a ton of fun things to do in Denver and its beautiful surroundings in June.
In June, daytime temperatures range from 68°F (20°C) to 78°F (26°C), with nights a cool 58°F (14°C). The sun shines for an average of 10.5 hours a day, which lasts 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 Music Festival, and the Chalk Art Festival.
- Avg. Temperature: 71°F / 22°C
- Avg. Low: 58°F / 14°C
- Avg. High: 78°F / 26°C
- Precipitation: 29.13 mm / 1.15 in
July
July is the busiest month of the year, and Denver swells with visitors. When I’ve visited Denver in July, the weather is often hot and sunny. Temperatures average 77°F (25°C), with average highs of 84°F (29°C).
There can also be pretty heavy rainfall during July. And while this can put a damper on picnics, it cools things down nicely, in my experience.
The great weather makes July the most popular month for visiting Denver; room prices at my favorite Denver hotels will be at their highest, and availability is low. I’d recommend making sure to book well in advance if you’re planning on heading to Denver during July.
I’d suggest enjoying outdoor activities in the morning to avoid the heat of the day. After getting some fresh air, I’d spend my afternoons cooling down by browsing Denver’s fantastic art galleries and museums and checking out historical buildings like the Colorado State Capitol in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. (And probably sippin’ a few craft brews on a breezy patio.)
The Cherry Creek Arts Festival and the Denver Country Fair are the top festivals I’ve seen for July. Although I’ve yet to attend either, they look like they’re well worth checking out.
- Avg. Temperature: 77°F / 25°C
- Avg. Low: 65°F / 18°C
- Avg. High: 84°F / 29°C
- Precipitation: 33 mm 1.3 in
August
August is the hottest month of the year, with temperatures reaching as high as 97°F (35°C) and the sun shining for up to 10 hours a day. Nights begin to cool down, though, with average low temperatures of 65°F (18°C). I’d suggest packing a jacket for evenings out.
Much like in July, I’d recommend escaping 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.
- Avg. Temperature: 77°F / 25°C
- Avg. Low: 65°F / 18°C
- Avg. High: 84°F / 29°C
- Precipitation: 21.68 mm / 0.85 in
September
September is another one of my favorite times to visit Denver, as the heat of summer begins to wane and the tourists begin to head home. (Finally!)
The weather in September is pleasant and warm, with day temperatures ranging between 65°F (18°C) and 77°F (25°C) and temperatures at night dipping down to 58°F (14°C) on average.
In September, we can still enjoy up to nine hours of sunshine a day. 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 my favorites in these parts are Rocky Mountain National Park and Cherry Creek State Park.
I love spending time in Colorado in autumn because it’s the time for food, beer, and wine—and September proves it, as it’s packed with culinary festivals and events.
Top-notch events I’ve discovered 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, one of my two favorite downtown neighborhoods from my visits.
- Avg. Temperature: 71°F / 22°C
- Avg. Low: 58°F / 14°C
- Avg. High: 79°F / 26°C
- Precipitation: 14.6 mm / 0.57 in
October
By October, autumn is in full swing, and temperatures begin to drop towards the end of the month. Average day temperatures dip to 52°F (11°C), while nights are much cooler at 34°F (1°C). Days now last around 11 hours on average, with around eight hours of sunshine each day.
Even with the cooler temperatures, I think 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 also the ideal month to take in the ever-changing fall colors in the breathtaking foliage around Denver. One word of warning, though: I’d recommend bringing a light jacket during the daytime as there’s a slight chance of rain.
While researching fall trips, I’ve found 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. (It’s an event that’s definitely on my Mountain West bucket list!)
- Avg. Temperature: 52°F / 11°C
- Avg. Low: 40°F / 4°C
- Avg. High: 60°F / 15°C
- Precipitation: 11.43 mm / 0.45 in
November
In November, winter is on the way as the weather begins to turn, with temperatures dropping and snow not far away. Days are sunny and clear but cool, with temperatures averaging around 43°F (6°C). By now, Denver starts to experience bitterly cold nights, with the mercury dipping below zero.
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.
One thing I’d keep in mind is that hotel prices rise this month; I’d highly recommend booking 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. Or discover art from emerging local artists at the Denver Arts Week.
- Avg. Temperature: 43°F / 6°C
- Avg. Low: 34°F / 1°C
- Avg. High: 50°F / 10°C
- Precipitation: 9.69 mm / 0.38 in
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 nearby world-class mountain resorts like Vail and Breckenridge are already getting packed. Temperatures are cold, with the mercury averaging 35°F (2°C) during the day and 28°F (-2°C) at night.
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 December’s shorter days, I’ve still found loads to do in Denver while researching winter trips here. I guarantee there’s 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.
- Avg. Temperature: 35°F / 2°C
- Avg. Low: 28°F / -2°C
- Avg. High: 42°F / 5°C
- Rainfall: 3.66 mm / 0.14 in
