Denver (CO) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Denver.

Climate overview of Denver

The best time to visit Denver is from May to October. While it can snow and freeze in Denver in the winter, it can get very hot in the summer thanks to Denver's location in the centre of the United States.

Denver Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Denver - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Denver

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from very warm to chilly in Denver. Average daytime temperatures reach a very warm 31°C (88°F) in July. In December, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 6°C (43°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 16°C (61°F) in July to -8°C (18°F) in December.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Denver

Denver maintains relatively dry conditions year-round, recording average annual precipitation of 452 mm (18 in). Denver can be quite wet during May, receiving approximately 68 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 12 rainy days.

In contrast, during the driest month (January), you will experience much drier conditions, with 12 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation spread across 5 snowy/rainy days. For more details, please visit our Denver Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Denver

Denver can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of July under a blue sky, with approximately 10.8 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in November, with only 6.5 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Denver by Month

Wind Speed in Denver

Best Time to Visit Denver

Conditions in Denver are generally most comfortable in May, June and September. They are typically least comfortable in January, February and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: May, June and September
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: June and July
  • Fewest rainy days: January, February, March and November
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to March, with very warm summers and cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: December, with freezing nights around -8°C (18°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Denver

What is the best time to visit Denver?

May, June and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Denver. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Denver has a distinct dry season from October to March, with very warm summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Denver?

Daytime highs range from 6°C (43°F) in December to 31°C (88°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -8°C (18°F) to 16°C (61°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Denver get?

Annual rainfall is around 452 mm (18 in). May is the wettest month with 68 mm (2.7 in), while January is the driest with 12 mm (0.5 in).

How sunny is Denver?

Denver receives around 3,102 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 323 hours, while November is the cloudiest with just 195 hours. Overall, Denver enjoys abundant sunshine.

Denver 3-Day Forecast

Denver on the map

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