Best Time To Visit Colorado

Hellos From Colorado! Hikers will fall in love with Colorado!

It’s ideal for all types of outdoor sports, including whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and rock climbing, thanks to its stunning natural beauty, steep mountains, deep gorges, alpine meadows, glaciers, and waterfalls.

However, The climate in Colorado throws a few curveballs. For starters, there are 300 days of sunshine per year, so even when it’s snowing, it’s bright. During the spring and summer, the sun begins to warm up, while the mornings and evenings can still be cool, thanks to the high altitude chill that pervades most of the state’s Continental Divide.

But when it’s HOT here, it’s extremely HOT, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties in the summer months, though the hills are, of course, cooler.

So, if you wanna visit the hikers’ heaven but aren’t sure when is the best time to visit Colorado? No doubt, it is the most difficult decision to decide when you must be present to participate in the activities and enjoy the scenery, and events in Colorado.

In this travel guide, we’re here to help you figure out the best time to go to Colorado Springs depending on your specific interest and preferences as well as seasonal weather conditions. We went through the data to find the answer for you. This guide will help you with your tour plan.

Come on, Let’s dive in!

What Is The Best Time To Visit Colorado?

The best time to travel to Colorado is anytime you choose. However, before planning and traveling, you must know everything you can about the area, including its seasons, weather, activities, and events.

Each season in Colorado offers something unique to visitors. To be honest, visiting Colorado at any time of year is a fantastic idea. However, an overview of the entire year is provided below to help you decide on the location and specific activities for each month and season.

Also Read: Best time to visit yellowstone

	When Is The Best Time To Visit Colorado– Summary
The Best Time To Travel To Colorado	Summer months is the finest months to explore Colorado. June July August October
Best Time Of Year To Colorado With fewer expenses	You can save hundreds of dollars on lodging by visiting the mountains during the shoulder seasons.
Best Time To Go Hiking In Colorado	For the best hiking weather in the mountains, Plan your trip to the mountains in mid-July or September to avoid the brief rainy season that occurs in the middle of the summer.
Best Times To Go To Colorado For Avoiding Crowds	Start or end of the summer and winter months. April and May October through mid-December
When Is The Best Time To Go Skiing In Colorado?	The best Time For Skiing In Colorado is winter. However, depending on snow conditions, most ski mountain resorts are open from late November through early April. Early and late season snow totals and quality, on the other hand, can be quite variable.
Best Time Of Year To Visit Colorado For White Water Rafting	Summer is the best time to go whitewater rafting in Colorado.

About Colorado - Hikers’ Heaven

Colorado is a year-round destination with spectacular terrain and natural beauty that piques the mind and inspires the soul. The state is breathtaking, with scenery ranging from the spectacular Rocky Mountains to rolling hills, lovely alpine lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and the Colorado Plateau’s high desert.

With unmatched skiing and snowboarding, hiking, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, fat-biking, snow tubing, seasonal festivals, a rich cultural past, and so much more, Colorado is the ultimate getaway.

There are twenty-six ski resorts in Colorado, including those at Vail and Breckenridge.

National parks, meadows, and forests abound throughout the state, where you may go hiking, mountain biking, or rock climbing in the warmer months. From bears to moose, raccoons to wolverines, wildlife abounds.

Take a hot air balloon flight from South Park Valley or Boulder to see Colorado’s beautiful terrain from above for a total change of pace.

Colorado Destination	Rocky Mountain National Park Durango and the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway Vail and Nearby Mountain Towns Mesa Verde National Park Pikes Peak in Pike National Forest Garden of the Gods San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway and the Million Dollar Highway Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve Dinosaur National Monument Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Aspen Colorado National Monument Glenwood Springs Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Colorado Destination

Rocky Mountain National Park

Durango and the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway

Vail and Nearby Mountain Towns

Mesa Verde National Park

Pikes Peak in Pike National Forest

Garden of the Gods

San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway and the Million Dollar Highway

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Dinosaur National Monument

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness

Aspen

Colorado National Monument

Glenwood Springs

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Hiking & Camping	Hanging Lake Trail Emerald Lake Trail Seven Bridges Trail Manitou Springs Incline St. Mary's Glacier Flatirons McCullough Gulch Maroon Lake Scenic Trail Yankee Boy Basin

Colorado - Great Bars	Buckhorn Exchange The Rabbit Hole Bold Restaurant and Bar Whitewater Bar & Grill The Canteen Ed's Cantina & Grill Rosie's Pizzeria Mountain Standard Smokin' Dave's BBQ & Brew

Weather Seasons In Colorado

While Colorado is most known for its winters, which are famed for its excellent skiing, the state has all four seasons. If you enjoy winter activities, the chilly months will be your favorite, however, most visitors come in the fall. Other outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding are best done in the summer and spring.

Every season of the year, Colorado will provide a unique experience. Colorado seasons are all gorgeous in their own right, no matter what time of year it is.

	Winter (December through March) The snowfall in Colorado is one of the best things about the winter. Skiers and snowboarders have always considered the state to be a paradise.
Keep in mind While Visiting In The Winter	In the winter, the Rocky Mountains are almost as crowded as they are in the summer. The difference is that the skiers and snowboarders take over the various mountain resorts. Weekends are the worst for mountain communities, so if you can visit during the week, you'll get a lot more out of your trip.
Things To Do In Colorado In The Winter	In winters, Colorado offers a lot. So, grab your coat and a calendar of events, and let's go exploring in Colorado's winter wonderland! Heli-Skiing Ski-Mountaineering School Snowkiting Snowcat Skiing Colorado Hut Trips Snow Boating Ice Fishing and Climbing Winter Horseback Riding Epic Snowmobile Tours Colorado Cross Country Skiing Colorado Dog Sledding Colorado Hot Springs Colorado Ice Climbing Colorado Ice Fishing Colorado Ice Skating Colorado Skiing & Snowboarding Colorado Sleigh Rides Colorado Snow Tubing Colorado Snowbiking Colorado Snowmobiling Rentals Colorado Snowshoeing
The Best Trails To Hike In The Winter	Hiking in Colorado during the winter is fantastic! You spend the majority of your day roaming across a snowy paradise. Many of the pathways lead to beautiful vistas of the snow-covered mountains, while others lead to brilliantly frozen waterfalls. Emerald Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park (3.5 miles) St Mary’s Glacier, Idaho Springs ( 2.4 miles) Mayflower Gulch, Frisco (6.1 miles) Quandary Peak, Breckenridge (6.75 miles) Emerald Mountain, Steamboat Springs (3.8 miles) Maroon Bells Scenic Loop, Aspen (1.9 miles) Shrine Ridge Trail Vail (4.3 miles) Bear Creek Trail, Telluride (5 miles) Mount Sanitas, Boulder (2.1 miles)
Check Out The Following Events In Winters	Georgetown Christmas Market Estes Park Winter Festival Frozen Dead Guy Days in Nederland

	Spring (Starts at the end of March - Early June) Spring is a slower season in Colorado, regardless of where you go.
Keep in mind While Visiting In The Spring	It's preferable to visit the area near the end of April if you want to experience spring weather. While hiking in Colorado is enjoyable all year, experiencing the mountains in the spring is especially enjoyable. Colorful wildflowers emerge across the state as the snow melts. There's a chance of a late snowstorm or blizzard, but otherwise, spring is the best time to visit Colorado to avoid crowds and save money on lodging.
Things To Do In Colorado In Spring	Because it's warmer outside in the spring and we can enjoy the great outdoors, now is the time to learn about things to do in Colorado this Spring! Go on a Wildflower Hike Try White River Rafting Relax in Natural Hot Springs Travel Aboard the Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway Feel what it was like to be a Pioneer Four Mile Historic Park \| The Denver Ear Visit the Wild Animal Sanctuary Shop at Old Colorado City Horseback Ride through Scenic Colorado Trails Enjoy a Spring Festival
The Best Trails To Hike In Spring	Hiking in the spring is particularly enjoyable since the mountains are ablaze with wildflowers and everything appears to be in full bloom. Putting on your hiking boots is the greatest way to see the park. Alderfer Three Sisters Park In Evergreen (0.2 to 10 Miles) South Rim Loop At Roxborough State Park (3 Miles) Sunset Loop At White Ranch (2 Miles) Mount Sanitas In Boulder (2-3 Miles) Spruce Mountain Near Larkspur (1.5 to 4 Miles) Davis Ponds Loop At Staunton State Park (2 Mile Loop) Enchanted Mesa At Chautauqua Park (2 Miles) Red Rocks Trail At Red Rocks (6 Miles) South Valley Park In Littleton (0.5 to 3 Miles) Waterton Canyon Trail (2 to 12.4 Miles)
Check out the following events in Spring	Cinco De Mayo Festival Taste of Vail

	Summer (Mid-June to Early-September) Snow is no longer a possibility by the time June arrives, and the sun shines for weeks. By Memorial Day, all of the state's roadways will be open. The days can be long and scorching. Even if the nights are warmer, summer nights can still be chilly, particularly at higher elevations. Because of the extremely dry climate, it is almost always a very pleasant heat with little or no humidity.
Advantages Of Visiting In The Summer	Summer is the best season to explore the state, whether you're visiting a National or State Park, seeing Denver's diverse attractions, or rooting for your favorite sports team. In summer, Winter Park provides a bunch of hiking and bike trails in the area, so there's always something to do in the summer. Aside from white water rafting and relaxing in natural hot springs, horseback riding is another popular activity.
Keep in Mind - Be Prepared	Tourist pricing will be in full effect for anyone wishing to stay for a while in the highlands and cities dotted around the state during this season. The sun is powerful at this elevation and can produce sunburn at any time of year, but it is particularly harsh in the summer. Remember to use sunscreen! Bring plenty of summer clothing, including a layer for the evenings, as well as swimmers!
Best Things To Do In Colorado In The Summer	Summer is the best time of year to go to Colorado since the weather is pleasant and warm, the wildflowers are still blooming, and the park is alive with activity. At any altitude, the outlook for a summer vacation in Colorado promises bright blue skies during the day and cool evenings. The following are the most popular summer activities: Hiking Mountain Biking/Cycling Camping/Backpacking Golf Boating Horseback Riding Caving Kayaking & Whitewater Rafting
The Best Trails To Hike In Summer	Here are some of the best Colorado summer treks around Denver and Boulder to help you stay cool. If you're going above treeline, wake up early to get off the ridges before the afternoon thunderstorms arrive. Mountain passes, alpine lakes, mist-producing waterfalls, and gorgeous state parks are all options. Arapaho Pass/Lake Dorothy: Indian Peaks Wilderness Pawnee Pass: Indian Peaks Wilderness Elk Falls Overlook: Staunton State Park Horseshoe Trail: Golden Gate Canyon State Park Mills Lake: Rocky Mountain National Park
Check out the following events in Summer	Greeley Stampede Telluride Jazz Festival The Telluride Film Festival Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Colorado Brewers Festival in Fort Collins, Blues and BBQ in Denver, Food & Wine Classic in Aspen The Hot Air Balloon Rodeo The “Wildflower Capital of the World,”

	Fall (Mid-September to Mid-November) Fall is a mild time in Colorado. With changing colors, snow tops returning to the peaks, and cooler, crisp air, fall comes early in Colorado and is undoubtedly the most gorgeous time of year. The weather will change from winter lows to summer highs. Snowfall can begin as early as the end of September, so be prepared. The last two weeks of September through the first two weeks of October are the most magical in Colorado when the Aspen leaves change yellow and gold. The Aspen Glow should be on everyone's bucket list.
Advantages Of Visiting In The Fall	Surprisingly, this is also one of the busiest times of year to visit. The most spectacular fall foliage in the country can be seen as the mountains turn colors of gold and red. Go to Colorado in late September and early October if you want to witness the leaves change during peak season. This is the best time to see fall colors in Colorado. Apple picking, trekking amid the changing leaves, and attending festivals such as Oktoberfest are all popular fall activities.
Things To Do In Colorado In The Fall	Fall in Colorado is an ideal time to visit, with bright blue skies, fresh air, and a plethora of fall festivals to enjoy. If you're visiting Colorado in the fall, here are some of the most memorable activities you may engage in. Go Apple Picking Celebrate Cowboy Culture Go Leaf Peeping Hear the Elk's Bugle in Rocky Mountain National Park Visit a Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze Visit Colorado's Most Haunted Spots Enjoy Cultural Attractions for Free
The Best Trails To Hike In The Fall	Hike in Colorado during the fall months to see the famously brilliant fall foliage. The vibrant autumn colors of Colorado's aspens are breathtaking. If you're looking for the famed yellow, orange, and red leaves, there are many options, however, this list covers top trails for hiking. Mt. Bierstadt, Georgetown (7-mile round-trip) Elk Falls Overlook, Pine (10.8-mile round-trip) Kebler Pass, Crested Butte (4.6 miles) Piney River Falls, Vail (5-mile round-trip) The Dyke Trail, Gunnison (13.9-mile loop) First Flatiron, Boulder (2.9-mile round trip) Lizard Head, Telluride (7.6-mile round trip) Maroon Bells, Aspen (3-mile round trip) Spring Creek Trail, Steamboat Springs (10.5-mile round trip) Three Island Lake Trail, Steamboat Springs (7-mile Trip)
Check out the following events in Fall	Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off Emma Crawford Coffin Races and Parade Oktoberfest

Colorado - Weather Guide Month By Month

Regardless of when you arrive, there will be plenty of adventure and excitement in store!

July	The Hottest Month
December	The coolest Month
May	The Rainiest Month
February	The Driest Month

Colorado’s Average Daily Sunshine Hours

Month	Hours
January	9.7
February	10.7
March	12.0
April	13.3
May	14.4
June	14.9
July	14.6
August	13.6
September	12.4
October	11.1
November	10.0
December	9.4

Monthly Weather Forecast – Climate Of Colorado

Month	Min (°C)	Max (°C)	Min (°F)	Max (°F)
January	-10.0	5.5	14	42
February	-7.8	7.2	18	45
March	-4.4	11.1	24	52
April	-0.50	15.0	31	59
May	5.0	20.0	41	68
June	10.0	26.1	50	79
July	12.8	28.8	55	84
August	12.2	27.7	54	82
September	7.2	23.3	45	74
October	1.1	17.2	34	63
November	-5	10	23	50
December	-8.8	5.6	16	42

Monthly Snowfall And Rainfall – Climate Of Colorado

Month	Snowfall (Inches)	Rainfall (Inches)
January	1.8	0.1
February	1.9	0.2
March	2.1	0.6
April	1.3	1.3
May	0.1	1.9
June	0.0	1.4
July	0.0	1.5
August	0.0	1.4
September	1.2	0.6
October	1.2	0.6
November	2.1	0.3
December	2.4	0.1

FAQs - Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Colorado

What Are The Places To Go In Colorado?

Millions of visitors travel to Colorado’s stunning landscape to be engulfed in its natural beauty. It may be tough to find the perfect destination for your next vacation among so many cities and villages, each having its own unique outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and general Colorado character. Visit Colorado Springs or Denver, there are many places to visit.

The following list will help you to find out the top places to visit in colorado.

- - Telluride
  - Denver
  - Rocky Mountain National Park
  - Aspen
  - Breckenridge
  - Vail
  - Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
  - Colorado Springs
  - Crested Butte
  - Dinosaur National Monument
  - Boulder
  - Steamboat Springs

What Is The Best Time Of Day To Go Fishing In Colorado?

Timing is crucial when it comes to fishing. The best times to fish in the summer are early morning or late evening. Most fish, especially cold-water species like trout, are most active early in the morning or late in the evening, especially during the summer heat.

Which One Is The Best City In Colorado To Visit In December?

Colorado is a great place to visit in the winter. This alpine state, known for its snow-capped peaks, fresh powder, and untamed beauty, will delight all outdoor enthusiasts and culture connoisseurs in your family. This cup overflows with activities to do during the winter months, thanks to its location beside the Rocky Mountains. Colorado never runs out of fascinating locations to visit in the winter, from skiing to ice castles and everything in between.

The following are the top places to visit in Colorado in December!

- - Estes Park
  - Nederland
  - Dillon
  - Leadville
  - Winter Park
  - Steamboat Springs
  - Telluride

What Is The Best Month To Visit Colorado?

There is no specific best month to go to Colorado. It has a season. The warm season, which spans from June to October, is the best time to visit Colorado. Because the snow in the mountains melts in June, it’s a great time to trek in Rocky Mountain National Park, Mount Elbert, and Mount Bierstadt, as well as drive via some of the state’s highest passes.

When Is The Cheapest Time To Go To Colorado?

When it comes to finding the best hotel deals in Colorado, it all depends on where you’re going.

In Denver, December is the cheapest hotel month on average. This is most likely attributable to a decrease in business travel during the month of December.

Similarly, the cheapest months to fly to Colorado are September, October, and May. So, it depends on multiple factors to find the expenses.

Takeaway - When Is The Best Time To Go To Colorado?

Colorado offers a wide range of activities throughout the year. You have complete control over when it comes to choosing the best time to visit Colorado. The warm season, which spans from June to October, is the greatest time to visit Colorado. Because the snow in the mountains melts in June, it’s an ideal time to trek in Rocky Mountain National Park, Mount Elbert, and Mount Bierstadt, as well as drive via some of the state’s highest passes.

However, other seasons also have their own attractions. I’ve explained each season, month, and event in this travel guide. So, it would be easy for you to choose the option that is ideal for you and organize your trip accordingly.

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