Climate and monthly weather forecast
Estes Park, CO

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The climate of Estes Park

Specifically located in the state of Colorado, USA, Estes Park lies under the Köppen climate classification of Dfc. This classification indicates a subarctic climate characterized by a distinct cool summer and a severe winter with no defined dry season. As observed with the weather data, Estes Park experience a drastic fluctuation in temperatures, and other weather constituents across different seasons, which paints a vivid weather picture throughout the year.

Notably, temperatures in Estes Park oscillate from a cool low of 12.6°F (-10.8°C) in the coldest months of the winter, up to a mildly warm high of 72.5°F (22.5°C) in the peak summer months. The town also witnesses a significant swing in humidity levels, ranging from a low of 50% in the dry summer months up to 78% during the damp winter season. Additionally, rainfall also varies from 1.06" (27mm) in drier months to a maximum of 4.02" (102mm), predominantly in the Spring.

Interestingly, Estes Park also sees a considerable amount of snowfall, reaching up to 21.3" (541mm) in the spring, but absent during the warm months. Coupled with a significant change in daylight hours across the year, from a minimum of 9.3 hours in winter to a maximum of 15 hours in summer, Estes Park exhibits a dynamic weather pattern. Coupled with variable wind speed, cloud coverage, UV index, and visibility across the year, Estes Park's climate offers a unique blend of conditions.

The best time to visit Estes Park

Taking into consideration the various weather elements across the span of the year, the months from June to September appears to be most favorable for a visit to Estes Park. During this period, the average high temperatures hover around a comfortable 68.5°F (20.3°C) to 72.5°F (22.5°C), making sightseeing pleasant and enjoyable. These months also witness a relative decline in precipitation, with rainfall varying from 1.81" (46mm) to 2.76" (70mm), making outdoor activities less likely to be disrupted by showers.

Simultaneously, the number of hours of daylight reaches its peak during these months, providing ample time for visitors to explore. Given the favorable daylight hours, relatively low rainfall, and comfortable temperatures, visitors will find this period exceptionally welcoming for outdoor activities.

The worst time to visit Estes Park

The harsh winter months from December to February may not be the best time to visit Estes Park due to severe weather conditions. The average low temperatures during these months can drop to as low as 12.6°F (-10.8°C), potentially making outdoor activities challenging. Additionally, these colder months see a surge in snowfall levels reaching up to 12.68" (322mm) in February, leading to icy conditions.

These months also observe reduced daylight hours, which may limit sightseeing and exploration possibilities. High precipitation, harsh cold, and less daylight make for unfavorable conditions for visiting Estes Park during these winter months.

Spring weather in Estes Park

Spring arrives in Estes Park between March and May, characterized by a gradual increase in temperatures and daylight hours. Average temperatures during this season rise from 37.8°F (3.2°C) in March to 52.9°F (11.6°C) in May. While this period experiences the highest rainfall, the average monthly figures range from 2.2" (56mm) to 4.02" (102mm), it also sees a significant amount of snowfall, especially in March, when it can reach up to 17.68" (449mm).

Additionally, the changing season sees an increase in relative humidity from 71% in March to 66% in May. With varying daylight hours from 12 hours in March to 14.4 hours in May, spring in Estes Park brings a blend of warm and chilly weather conditions.

Summer weather in Estes Park

Between June and August, Estes Park enjoys pleasant summer weather. Average high temperatures sit comfortably from 68.5°F (20.3°C) to 72.5°F (22.5°C). This period also marks a transition from a predominantly damp season to a drier stage, with average monthly rainfall figures oscillating between 1.81" (46mm) to 2.76" (70mm).

Relative humidity drops to its lowest levels, from 50% in June to 52% by August, indicating drier conditions. Simultaneously, daylight hours reach their peak, varying from 14.7 hours to 15 hours, allowing ample time for outdoor recreational activities.

Autumn weather in Estes Park

With the onset of September to November, Autumn brings a gradual decrease in temperature from 64.9°F (18.3°C) to 38.5°F (3.6°C), over these months. Rainfall levels during this period shrink further, oscillating between 1.3" (33mm) to 1.34" (34mm), while humidity levels begin to creep up from 51% to 64% indicating the arrival of wetter seasons.

Interestingly, as the winter season approaches, snowfall starts to reappear in November with an average value of 8.39" (213mm). As the winter season approaches, daylight hours also start to decline from 12.4 hours in September to 10 hours by November.

Winter weather in Estes Park

Winter in Estes Park spans December to February and brings considerable climatic changes. Average low temperatures range from 12.6°F (-10.8°C) to 13.3°F (-10.4°C), indicating a stark drop in temperature. This period also marks the arrival of peak snowfall activity, with levels ranging from 8.31" (211mm) to 12.68" (322mm).

Contrastingly, rainfall during these months takes a backseat, with average values ranging from 1.02" (26mm) to 1.06" (27mm). Winter months also bring down the daylight hours to a low of 9.3 hours in December, enhancing the chilliness of the season. With the harshness of the winter chill and significant snowfall, Estes Park presents a white winter landscape in these months.

Weather in January

Arriving on the heels of December, January in Estes Park, Colorado, welcomes the new year with cooler temperatures. With temperatures dropping from 12.6°F (-10.8°C) to 13.3°F (-10.4°C), it tapers off the year's thermal gradient. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February brings a slight increment in temperature compared to January. This is the month when Estes Park witnesses the year's highest snowfall of approximately 12.68" (322mm), adding a serene white blanket to the landscape. As the snow builds up, possible outdoor activities shift towards winter sports. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March ushers in slight changes to the weather in comparison to February. As winter slowly begins to retreat, the city continues to witness snowfall, although less intense. With increasing sunshine hours, this month offers an ideal blend of cooler temperature and sunlight. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April's weather in Estes Park, Colorado, is a mix of retreating cold and emerging warmth. Compared to March, this month experiences a significant spike in rainfall with 3.03" (77mm). Making its mark as the start of the rainy season, April showers bring a surge in the region's flora. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Compared to April, May's weather witnesses an increase in temperature. At 4.02" (102mm), rainfall peaks this month, sparking a growth spurt in local flora and fauna. With the chilly touch of winter fading away, Estes Park starts revealing its pleasantly warm and comfortable side. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June introduces distinctive changes in weather conditions in comparison to May. This month marks a decline in rainfall, solidifying the summer-like weather in Estes Park, Colorado. June welcomes local and visiting hikers, offering them dry days and warm temperatures. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Estes Park, Colorado, retains the warm weather of June. Peak summer conditions set in, with warm afternoons and quite comfortable nights being a typical pattern for this month. July also sees rainfall, adding a refreshing touch to the summer's warmth. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August experiences a slight drop in temperature, yet retains the warmth of July. Estes Park receives a reasonable amount of rainfall, a bit less than that in July, but enough to keep the environment refreshed. The city experiences close to 13.7 hours of daylight, providing ample time for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September indicates the departure of the summer warmth experienced in August. In Estes Park this month observes a decline in the day's length and a dip in temperature, setting the stage for the forthcoming autumn. As the weather cools down from summer highs, the city experiences its last glimpses of rainfall before the winter dry spell. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October presents noticeable transitions compared to September. With the increase of fall foliage, Estes Park positively glows in brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red. Nights start to become cooler, signaling the slowly approaching winter. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November's weather in Estes Park, Colorado, signals the onset of winter. The departure from October's relatively warmer climate becomes obvious with a significant fall in temperature. Snow starts to descend once again, but the city continues to enjoy around 10 hours of daylight. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December seals the transition to winter, establishing itself as one of the coldest months. Compared to November, Estes Park, Colorado experiences reduced daylight hours of around 9.3 hours. The town starts dressing up in a white veil of snow, resembling a classic winter postcard scenery. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 30, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

How much does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 117 rainfall days, and 23.35" (593mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow?

January through June, August through December are months with snowfall.

How much does it snow in Estes Park?

Throughout the year, there are 114.1 snowfall days, and 105.67" (2684mm) of snow is accumulated.

When is the lowest UV index?

The months with the lowest UV index are January through April, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.

What is the most humid month?

February is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 78%.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

February has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 6h of sunshine.

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.

When does it snow the most?

The month with the most snowfall is April, when snow falls for 16.3 days and typically aggregates up to 21.3" (541mm) of snow.

What is the wettest month?

The month with the most rainfall is May, when the rain falls for 14.8 days and typically aggregates up to 4.02" (102mm) of precipitation.

What is the least humid month?

June is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 50%.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 0min of daylight.

What month has the most sunshine?

June has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 11.2h of sunshine.

What are the months with the highest UV index?

The months with the highest UV index in Estes Park, Colorado, are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 4.

What time of the year is the hottest?

Temperature records mark July as the warmest month, with highs averaging 72.5°F (22.5°C) and lows at 49.3°F (9.6°C).

When it does not snow?

The only month without snowfall is July.

What month is the coldest in Estes Park?

Estes Park's coldest month, December, registers temperatures that range from a high of 28.6°F (-1.9°C) to a low of 12.6°F (-10.8°C).

What is the driest month in Estes Park?

The month with the least rainfall is December, when the rain falls for 6.3 days and typically collects 1.02" (26mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 18min of daylight.

Average temperature
Estes Park, CO

Average temperature - Estes Park, CO

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (72.5°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (28.6°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (49.3°F).
The coldest months (with the lowest average low temperature) are February and December (12.6°F).

Average pressure
Estes Park, CO

Average pressure - Estes Park, CO

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.17"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.91"Hg).

Average wind speed
Estes Park, CO

Average wind speed - Estes Park, CO

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (10.2mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (5.8mph).

Average humidity
Estes Park, CO

Average humidity - Estes Park, CO

The month with the highest relative humidity is February (78%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (50%).

Average rainfall
Estes Park, CO

Average rainfall - Estes Park, CO

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (4.02").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is December (1.02").

Average rainfall days
Estes Park, CO

Average rainfall days - Estes Park, CO

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (17.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (3.6 days).

Average snowfall
Estes Park, CO

Average snowfall - Estes Park, CO

The month with the highest snowfall is April (21.3").
The month with the least snowfall is July (0").

Average snowfall days
Estes Park, CO

Average snowfall days - Estes Park, CO

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is March (16.8 days).
The month with the least snowfall days is July (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Estes Park, CO

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Estes Park, CO

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 18min).

The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 11h and 12min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 6h and 0min).

Average sunshine days
Estes Park, CO

Average sunshine days - Estes Park, CO

The month with the most sunshine days is September (19.4 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is May (8.2 days).

Average UV index
Estes Park, CO

Average UV index - Estes Park, CO

The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 4).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, April, October, November and December (UV index 2).

Average cloud cover
Estes Park, CO

Average cloud cover - Estes Park, CO

The months with the most cloud cover are February and May (Cloud cover 39).
The months with the least cloud cover are June and September (Cloud cover 22).

Average visibility
Estes Park, CO

Average visibility - Estes Park, CO

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

Estes Park, Colorado, USA

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