Climate and monthly weather forecast
Crested Butte, CO

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Scenic wooden holiday homes amid trees and great scenery in a village in Crested Butte, Colorado, a view of the snowy Mount Butte in the back
Scenic wooden holiday homes amid trees and great scenery in a village in Crested Butte, Colorado, a view of the snowy Mount Butte in the back

The climate of Crested Butte

Located in Colorado, USA, Crested Butte is characterized by a subarctic climate as classified by Köppen climate classification - Dfc. This classification indicates a climate with severe winters, no dry season, and relatively cool summers. Throughout the year, weather variations are significant in Crested Butte. High temperatures range from 22.6°F (-5.2°C) in winter to 67.6°F (19.8°C) in summer whereas lows drop to 0°F (-17.8°C) during the coldest periods and climb to 41°F (5°C) during the warmer months.

Relative humidity in Crested Butte experiences less dramatic variation. From the driest month in June with 52%, it shifts to the highest in February at 91%. Rainfall varies moderately throughout the year. The maximum average rainfall of 3.74" (95mm) occurs in the heat of July, while November presents the lowest level of precipitation with an average of 1.61" (41mm). January and February exhibit the most abundant snowfall with averages of 18.27" (464mm) and 21.18" (538mm), respectively.

Wind speeds oscillate between 4.5mph (7.2km/h) in August and 6.3mph (10.1km/h) in June, while air pressure is relatively stable across the year, with the least in April at 29.95" (761mm) and the peak in December with 30.17" (766mm). Crested Butte typically enjoys a decent amount of sunshine, ranging from 5.1 hours per day in February to a maximum of 11.6 hours per day in June.

The best time to visit Crested Butte

Summer months of June to August offer the most pleasant conditions in Crested Butte. The temperatures reach their peak, with averages from 63.1°F (17.3°C) to 67.6°F (19.8°C), making it an ideal period for outdoor activities. Humidity is also lower, and rainfall is relatively moderate, ensuring comfortable conditions for visitors. Additionally, the extended daylight hours, from 14.6 hours in July to 14.9 hours in June, provide ample time to explore and enjoy the destination.

The worst time to visit Crested Butte

Considering the subarctic climate, the harshest period in Crested Butte falls between December and February. These months witness freezing temperatures that can drop to as low as 0°F (-17.8°C) and snowfall averages that peak to 21.18" (538mm) in February. Traveling during this period may be challenging due to weather conditions. Reduced daylight hours from 9.5 hours in December to 10.8 hours in February also limit the time available for outdoor activities.

Spring weather in Crested Butte

Between March and May, Crested Butte transitions from freezing winter temperatures to milder spring conditions. Temperatures climb from 29.7°F (-1.3°C) in March to 48°F (8.9°C) in May. Relative humidity also drops from 88% in March to 68% in May. The volume of rainfall sees a significant increase during this period with an average of 2.95" (75mm) in March to 2.87" (73mm) in May. Snowfall, however, decreases gradually from 23.94" (608mm) in March to 2.24" (57mm) in May.

Summer weather in Crested Butte

From June through August, Crested Butte experiences its warmest period with temperatures ranging from 63.1°F (17.3°C) to 67.6°F (19.8°C). Relative humidity drops to the lowest point of the year reaching 52% in June. Despite being the warmest period, summer registers the highest average rainfall for the year at 3.74" (95mm) in July. Conversely, snowfall is minimal during this period, falling to 0.16" (4mm) in July.

Autumn weather in Crested Butte

The autumn period in Crested Butte, falling from September to November, indicates a transition from the warmth of summer to the severe coolness of winter. Temperatures decrease significantly from a high of 58.8°F (14.9°C) in September to a low of 32.4°F (0.2°C) in November. Rainfall also falls moderately, ranging from 1.81" (46mm) in September to 1.61" (41mm) in November.

Winter weather in Crested Butte

Winter in Crested Butte, from December to February, presents the most challenging weather conditions. Temperatures drop to their lowest point with averages ranging from 22.6°F (-5.2°C) in December and January to a slightly higher 22.8°F (-5.1°C) in February. Snowfall peaks during these months, reaching 21.18" (538mm) in February, the highest for the year. Additionally, wind speeds reach their highest with 5.4mph (8.7km/h) in January and February. The days during these months are also shorter, with daylight hours below 10 hours.

Weather in January

Beginning the year on a markedly cold note, January in Crested Butte, Colorado, is characterized by snowfalls while keeping extremely low temperatures. The city experiences the longest snowfall days of 19.1 and the city is cloaked in an impressive 18.27" (464mm) of snow, painting a pristine winter wonderland that can make anyone gasp in awe. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February weather closely resembles the January cold in Crested Butte, with an additional depth of 21.18" (538mm) of snow. This month invites those who revel in the continuation of the winter season. It brings a fractional increase in temperature and humidity but expects more snowfall days. Weather in February »

Weather in March

When March arrives in Crested Butte, residents can start noticing a transition from harsh winter to a softer climate. The snowfall diminishes compared to its preceding months of January and February, although it still leaves a considerable amount of 23.94" (608mm). Weather in March »

Weather in April

Crested Butte's ambient April weather signifies that spring is in full swing. The city becomes more welcoming to varied outdoor activities as the snowfall decreases significantly to 21.18" (538mm). It features an enhancement in daylight hours, contributing to increased visibility and the resurgence of local flora and fauna. Weather in April »

Weather in May

The town experiences a significant transformation in May, as this month records a drastic decline in snowfall to a mere 15.16" (385mm) compared to the earlier months. Its weather embodies the essence of late spring thriving towards the threshold of summer. Weather in May »

Weather in June

As Crested Butte welcomes June, summer begins to show its characteristics with increased brightness and warmth. The town records a dramatic drop in snowfall to 2.24" (57mm), signifying the end of the snowfall period. The month is typically characterized by balmy weather and clear skies offering an excellent opportunity to fully enjoy outdoor activities. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is the peak of summer in Crested Butte, offering the highest temperatures, extensive daylight, and significant rainfall of 3.74" (95mm), inviting more lushness into the landscape. The winds during this time of year are relatively calm, making it a fantastic time for balloon rides or peaceful picnics. Weather in July »

Weather in August

In Crested Butte, August weather continues with the summer pattern established in July. It holds onto the warm temperatures, comfortable winds and a decreased rainfall amount to 2.87" (73mm). This time is perfect for exploring nature's bounties without any rush as the weather is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. Weather in August »

Weather in September

Come September, Crested Butte starts the transition from summer to autumn. This time of the year is marked by considerable dwindling warmth, decreased rain of 1.81" (46mm) and longer nights. This climatic shift brings a colorful change in the local flora, attracting artist and photographers alike to capture the scenic beauty. Weather in September »

Weather in October

Crested Butte in October has a visibly cooler climate, which sets the town into the motion of upcoming winter with temperatures falling. The season's first signs of snow can be witnessed this month, recording 12.64" (321mm), signifying the onset of the snowy period. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November comes as a prelude to the daunting winters, with a notable drop in temperatures. Crested Butte starts to adorn a white veil with incoming snowfall, depositing an average of 13.27" (337mm). This month sees shorter days and colder nights, preparing everyone for the season ahead. Weather in November »

Weather in December

As the final month of the year, December in Crested Butte reaffirms that winter is in full swing. A substantial spike in snowfall, accumulating to a significant 19.06" (484mm), underlines the intensity of the season. The sunny days, although diminished considerably, provide beautiful quieter moments to appreciate this winter wonderland under the clear Colorado skies. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 26, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

How many days does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 117.4 rainfall days, and 29.33" (745mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow?

Months with snowfall are January through December.

How many days does it snow?

Throughout the year, there are 159 snowfall days, and 149.53" (3798mm) of snow is accumulated.

What time of the year is the coldest?

The temperature hits its lowest levels in February and December, recording an average high-temperature of 22.6°F (-5.2°C).

What is the most humid month?

February is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 91%.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

February has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 5.1h of sunshine.

When is the lowest UV index?

February, March and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index.

What is the snowiest month?

The month with the most snowfall in Crested Butte is March, when snow falls for 21.7 days and typically aggregates up to 23.94" (608mm) of snow.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from MST to MDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from MDT to MST.

What is the least humid month?

With an average relative humidity of 52%, June is the least humid month.

When are the longest days?

June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 48min of daylight.

What month has the most sunshine?

The month with the most sunshine is June, with an average of 11.6h of sunshine.

What is the hottest time of year?

July, with its average high-temperature of 67.6°F (19.8°C) and an average low-temperature of 41°F (5°C), holds the record as the warmest month.

What is the wettest month?

July is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 22.3 days and accumulates 3.74" (95mm) of precipitation.

When it does not snow?

July is the month with the least snowfall. Snow falls for 0.7 days and accumulates 0.16" (4mm) of snow.

When is the highest UV index?

July is the month with the highest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 4.

What is the driest month?

November is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 3.1 days and accumulates 1.61" (41mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 30min of daylight.

Average temperature
Crested Butte, CO

Average temperature - Crested Butte, CO

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (67.6°F).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are February and December (22.6°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (41°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (0°F).

Average pressure
Crested Butte, CO

Average pressure - Crested Butte, CO

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.23"Hg).
The months with the lowest atmospheric pressure are April and May (29.95"Hg).

Average wind speed
Crested Butte, CO

Average wind speed - Crested Butte, CO

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is June (6.3mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (4.5mph).

Average humidity
Crested Butte, CO

Average humidity - Crested Butte, CO

The month with the highest relative humidity is February (91%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (52%).

Average rainfall
Crested Butte, CO

Average rainfall - Crested Butte, CO

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (3.74").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is November (1.61").

Average rainfall days
Crested Butte, CO

Average rainfall days - Crested Butte, CO

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (22.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (3.1 days).

Average snowfall
Crested Butte, CO

Average snowfall - Crested Butte, CO

The month with the highest snowfall is March (23.94").
The month with the least snowfall is July (0.16").

Average snowfall days
Crested Butte, CO

Average snowfall days - Crested Butte, CO

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is April (21.8 days).
The month with the least snowfall days is July (0.7 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Crested Butte, CO

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Crested Butte, CO

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 30min).

The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 11h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 5h and 6min).

Average sunshine days
Crested Butte, CO

Average sunshine days - Crested Butte, CO

The month with the most sunshine days is November (16.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (5.3 days).

Average UV index
Crested Butte, CO

Average UV index - Crested Butte, CO

The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 4).
The months with the lowest UV index are February, March and December (UV index 1).

Average visibility
Crested Butte, CO

Average visibility - Crested Butte, CO

The months with the highest visibility are May, June, July, August, September and October (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April and December (4mi).

Crested Butte, Colorado, USA

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