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 »