Mesa Verde National Park
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Mesa Verde National Park Weather in December

Thinking of visiting Mesa Verde National Park in December? Expect low temperatures reaching 2°C (36°F) during the day, dropping to -7°C (19°F) at night, and be prepared for the wettest month of the year.

Rainfall in Mesa Verde National Park in December

Since this is the rainiest month of the year, it's a good idea to carry an umbrella just in case. Typically, about 11 days will experience snow/rainfall, with an average of 63 mm (2.5 in) for the month. A fairly balanced picture this month, some wet days but nothing too extreme in terms of intensity.

Temperature in Mesa Verde National Park in December

Temperatures in Mesa Verde National Park in December top out at 2°C (36°F) and drop to -7°C (19°F) overnight. December is in the winter season. Cold conditions tend to persist from morning through evening, so be prepared for winter weather. Nights drop below freezing to -7°C (19°F). An extra blanket is worth packing if you're unsure about the heating where you're staying. It is the coldest month of the year, so be sure to pack proper winter clothing for the conditions.Pack accordingly with warm clothes.

If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, December may not be the ideal month to visit Mesa Verde National Park. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.

Mesa Verde National Park Temperature in December

Min Temperature
-7°C (19°F)
Max Temperature
2°C (36°F)
Chance of Rain
36%
Precipitation
63 mm (2.5 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Humidity
59%

Mesa Verde National Park Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Mesa Verde National Park - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Mesa Verde National Park typically drop from around 7°C (45°F) at the start of December to approximately 4°C (39°F) by the end. Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -10°C (14°F) to -7°C (19°F).

Average temperatures in December

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in December

Historical weather records for Mesa Verde National Park in December

Browse day-by-day weather records for Mesa Verde National Park spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Mesa Verde National Park historical weather extremes in December

According to our 30 years of weather records for Mesa Verde National Park, the following extremes were recorded between 1995 and 2025.

  • Mesa Verde National Park recorded its highest December temperature of 18°C (64°F) on December 23, 2025.
  • Mesa Verde National Park experienced its chilliest December day on December 31, 2010, reaching only -8°C (18°F).
  • Mesa Verde National Park registered its coldest December night on December 27, 2015, with temperatures dropping to -23°C (-9°F).

Best Places in the United States of America in December

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in December →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Mesa Verde National Park in December

Cold weather calls for smart layering in December. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Rain gear is recommended, you can expect wet weather on multiple days.

What To Do in Mesa Verde National Park in December

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Cycling
    3/10
  • Walking
    3/10
  • Barbeque
    1/10
  • Camping
    1/10
  • Outdoor sports
    3/10

Mesa Verde National Park 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Mesa Verde National Park

Popular in December

Where to go in December - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.