Located in the high plains of Colorado, Colorado Springs experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by warm, sunny days and cool nights. The city's unique geography, nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, creates distinct weather patterns throughout the year. Whether you're planning a visit or considering moving to Colorado Springs, this comprehensive guide to the city's climate will help you understand what to expect.
Colorado Springs is known for its 300 days of sunshine annually, making it one of the sunniest cities in the United States. However, the city also experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. With an average annual temperature of 49°F, the city's climate is generally mild, but it can be extreme at times.
In the following sections, we'll take a closer look at Colorado Springs' weather by month. We'll explore the average temperatures, precipitation levels, and unique weather patterns that occur throughout the year. This information will help you plan your activities and prepare for the changing seasons.
colorado springs weather by month
Distinct seasons, sunny days, cool nights.
- January: Cold, snowy
- February: Cold, dry
- March: Variable, windy
- April: Mild, sunny
- May: Warm, dry
- June: Hot, sunny
- July: Hottest, monsoon
- August: Warm, dry
September: Mild, sunny
October: Cool, crisp
November: Cold, windy
December: Cold, snowy
January: Cold, snowy
January is the coldest month in Colorado Springs, with average temperatures ranging from 19°F to 37°F. The city experiences frequent snowfall, averaging 6.5 inches per month. The combination of cold temperatures and snowfall creates a winter wonderland, perfect for outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
While January can be cold, it is also a beautiful time to visit Colorado Springs. The city is blanketed in a layer of snow, and the surrounding mountains are covered in a thick layer of frost. The clear skies and lack of humidity make for stunning views of the snow-capped peaks.
If you're planning a trip to Colorado Springs in January, be sure to pack warm clothes and plenty of layers. You'll also want to check the weather forecast before you go, as storms can move in quickly and bring heavy snow and wind.
Here are some additional details about January weather in Colorado Springs:
- Average high temperature: 37°F
- Average low temperature: 19°F
- Average precipitation: 0.8 inches
- Average snowfall: 6.5 inches
- Sunniest day: January 21st, with an average of 9.5 hours of sunshine
- Coldest day: January 14th, with an average low temperature of 14°F
January is a great time to visit Colorado Springs for winter sports enthusiasts. The city offers a variety of ski resorts and cross-country skiing trails, as well as opportunities for snowshoeing and sledding. If you're not a fan of the cold, there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, or one of the city's many museums.
February: Cold, dry
February is the driest month in Colorado Springs, with an average precipitation of only 0.6 inches. The city also experiences cold temperatures, with average highs in the mid-40s and average lows in the mid-20s. Despite the cold and dry conditions, February is a beautiful time to visit Colorado Springs, as the city is often bathed in sunshine.
- Sunny days: February is the sunniest month in Colorado Springs, with an average of 8.5 hours of sunshine per day. This makes it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and sightseeing.
- Less crowded: February is typically a less crowded time to visit Colorado Springs, as many tourists avoid the city during the colder months. This means you'll have more space to explore the city's attractions and enjoy the peace and quiet.
- Affordable rates: February is also a great time to find affordable rates on hotels and flights. This makes it a great time to visit Colorado Springs on a budget.
- Winter activities: While February is cold, there are still plenty of winter activities to enjoy in Colorado Springs. You can go skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or sledding at one of the city's many resorts or parks.
Overall, February is a great time to visit Colorado Springs for those who don't mind the cold and dry weather. The city offers a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy, and you'll likely find fewer crowds and more affordable rates than during other times of the year.
March: Variable, windy
March is a transitional month in Colorado Springs, with weather that can be highly variable. Temperatures can range from the 30s to the 60s, and the city can experience anything from sunny days to snowstorms. The month is also known for its strong winds, which can make it feel even colder.
The variability of March weather is due to the clash of cold air from the north and warm air from the south. This can create unstable atmospheric conditions, leading to sudden changes in temperature and precipitation. Despite the unpredictable weather, March can be a beautiful time to visit Colorado Springs.
Here are some additional details about March weather in Colorado Springs:
- Average high temperature: 50°F
- Average low temperature: 29°F
- Average precipitation: 1.6 inches
- Average snowfall: 4.7 inches
- Sunniest day: March 20th, with an average of 10.5 hours of sunshine
- Coldest day: March 1st, with an average low temperature of 21°F
Despite the variable weather, there are still plenty of things to do in Colorado Springs in March. The city's parks and trails begin to thaw out, making them ideal for hiking and biking. You can also visit the city's many museums and attractions, or take a drive through the scenic Garden of the Gods.
If you're planning a trip to Colorado Springs in March, be sure to pack clothes for all types of weather. You'll also want to check the weather forecast before you go, as storms can move in quickly and bring heavy snow or rain.
April: Mild, sunny
April is a delightful month in Colorado Springs, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The average high temperature in April is 62°F, and the average low temperature is 38°F. The city receives an average of 1.5 inches of precipitation in April, but most of this falls as rain, with only a small chance of snow.
April is a great time to visit Colorado Springs for outdoor activities. The city's parks and trails are in full bloom, making them ideal for hiking, biking, and picnicking. You can also enjoy a round of golf at one of the city's many courses, or take a drive through the scenic Garden of the Gods.
Here are some additional details about April weather in Colorado Springs:
- Average high temperature: 62°F
- Average low temperature: 38°F
- Average precipitation: 1.5 inches
- Average snowfall: 1.9 inches
- Sunniest day: April 23rd, with an average of 11.5 hours of sunshine
- Coldest day: April 1st, with an average low temperature of 32°F
Overall, April is a great time to visit Colorado Springs. The weather is mild and sunny, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy outdoors. Just be sure to pack a jacket, as the nights can still be cool.
If you're planning a trip to Colorado Springs in April, be sure to check out some of the city's many festivals and events. The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center hosts a variety of art exhibitions and performances throughout the month, and the city also hosts the annual Pikes Peak Hill Climb, a challenging race that attracts drivers from all over the world.
May: Warm, dry
May is a warm and dry month in Colorado Springs, with average temperatures ranging from 51°F to 75°F. The city receives an average of only 1.1 inches of precipitation in May, making it one of the driest months of the year.
The warm and dry weather in May makes it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities in Colorado Springs. The city's parks and trails are in full bloom, making them ideal for hiking, biking, and picnicking. You can also enjoy a round of golf at one of the city's many courses, or take a drive through the scenic Garden of the Gods.
Here are some additional details about May weather in Colorado Springs:
- Average high temperature: 75°F
- Average low temperature: 51°F
- Average precipitation: 1.1 inches
- Average snowfall: 0 inches
- Sunniest day: May 25th, with an average of 12 hours of sunshine
- Coldest day: May 1st, with an average low temperature of 45°F
Overall, May is a great time to visit Colorado Springs. The weather is warm and dry, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy outdoors. Just be sure to pack a light jacket, as the nights can still be cool.
If you're planning a trip to Colorado Springs in May, be sure to check out some of the city's many festivals and events. The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center hosts a variety of art exhibitions and performances throughout the month, and the city also hosts the annual Memorial Day Parade, a patriotic celebration that features floats, marching bands, and military vehicles.
June: Hot, sunny
June is the hottest month in Colorado Springs, with average temperatures ranging from 59°F to 86°F. The city receives an average of only 0.9 inches of precipitation in June, making it one of the driest months of the year. The combination of hot temperatures and low humidity makes June a great time to enjoy outdoor activities in Colorado Springs.
- Warm days and cool nights: June days are typically warm and sunny, with average highs in the mid-80s. However, the nights are typically cool, with average lows in the mid-50s. This makes it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities during the day and relax by a campfire at night.
- Plenty of sunshine: June is the sunniest month in Colorado Springs, with an average of 12 hours of sunshine per day. This makes it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming.
- Low humidity: June is also a month with low humidity. This makes the hot temperatures feel more comfortable and reduces the risk of thunderstorms.
- Outdoor festivals and events: June is a popular time for festivals and events in Colorado Springs. Some of the most popular events include the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center's SummerStage festival, the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, and the Colorado Springs Rodeo.
Overall, June is a great time to visit Colorado Springs. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy outdoors. Just be sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen, as the sun can be intense at this time of year.
July: Hottest, monsoon
July is the hottest month in Colorado Springs, with average temperatures ranging from 63°F to 90°F. The city also experiences its highest precipitation in July, with an average of 2.3 inches of rain. This is due to the monsoon season, which typically lasts from mid-July to mid-September. During the monsoon season, Colorado Springs can experience sudden and heavy thunderstorms, often accompanied by strong winds and hail.
- Hot and humid: July is the hottest and most humid month in Colorado Springs. The average high temperature is 90°F, and the average low temperature is 63°F. The humidity can make the heat feel even more oppressive.
- Afternoon thunderstorms: July is also the month with the most afternoon thunderstorms. These storms can be sudden and severe, often bringing heavy rain, lightning, and hail. It's important to be prepared for these storms if you're planning to spend time outdoors.
- Monsoon season: The monsoon season typically lasts from mid-July to mid-September. During this time, Colorado Springs can experience periods of heavy rain, flooding, and even flash floods. It's important to be aware of the monsoon season and to take precautions to stay safe.
- Beautiful sunsets: Despite the heat and humidity, July is also a beautiful month in Colorado Springs. The sunsets are particularly stunning, with the sky often turning a deep orange or red.
Overall, July can be a challenging month to visit Colorado Springs, due to the heat, humidity, and monsoon season. However, if you're prepared for these conditions, you can still enjoy the city's many attractions and activities. Just be sure to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and be aware of the weather forecast.
August: Warm, dry
August is a warm and dry month in Colorado Springs, with average temperatures ranging from 57°F to 84°F. The city receives an average of only 0.9 inches of precipitation in August, making it one of the driest months of the year. The combination of warm temperatures and low humidity makes August a great time to enjoy outdoor activities in Colorado Springs.
Here are some additional details about August weather in Colorado Springs:
- Average high temperature: 84°F
- Average low temperature: 57°F
- Average precipitation: 0.9 inches
- Average snowfall: 0 inches
- Sunniest day: August 15th, with an average of 12 hours of sunshine
- Coldest day: August 31st, with an average low temperature of 51°F
Overall, August is a great time to visit Colorado Springs. The weather is warm and dry, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy outdoors. Just be sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen, as the sun can be intense at this time of year.
If you're planning a trip to Colorado Springs in August, be sure to check out some of the city's many festivals and events. The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center hosts a variety of art exhibitions and performances throughout the month, and the city also hosts the annual Colorado State Fair, a celebration of Colorado's agriculture, industry, and culture.
FAQ
Have questions about Colorado Springs weather by month? Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Question 1: What is the best time to visit Colorado Springs?
Answer: The best time to visit Colorado Springs depends on your interests and preferences. If you enjoy warm and sunny weather, the summer months (June, July, and August) are a great time to visit. If you prefer cooler weather, the spring months (April, May, and June) or the fall months (September, October, and November) are a good choice. Winter (December, January, and February) can be cold and snowy, but it's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports.
Question 2: What kind of weather can I expect in January?
Answer: January is the coldest month in Colorado Springs, with average temperatures ranging from 19°F to 37°F. The city also experiences frequent snowfall, averaging 6.5 inches per month.
Question 3: Is it true that Colorado Springs is very sunny?
Answer: Yes, Colorado Springs is known for its sunshine. The city receives an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest cities in the United States.
Question 4: What is the monsoon season in Colorado Springs?
Answer: The monsoon season in Colorado Springs typically lasts from mid-July to mid-September. During this time, the city can experience sudden and heavy thunderstorms, often accompanied by strong winds and hail.
Question 5: What are some things to do in Colorado Springs in August?
Answer: August is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities in Colorado Springs. Some popular activities include hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing. The city also hosts a variety of festivals and events in August, including the Colorado State Fair.
Question 6: What is the weather like in December?
Answer: December is a cold and snowy month in Colorado Springs, with average temperatures ranging from 14°F to 40°F. The city also experiences an average of 6.1 inches of snowfall in December.
Closing Paragraph:
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about Colorado Springs weather by month. For more information, be sure to check the National Weather Service website or the Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau website.
Now that you know more about Colorado Springs weather by month, you can start planning your trip. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for the weather conditions you're expecting.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip to Colorado Springs, no matter what time of year you visit:
Tip 1: Pack layers.
The weather in Colorado Springs can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to pack layers of clothing that you can add or remove as needed. This is especially important in the spring and fall, when temperatures can fluctuate widely throughout the day.
Tip 2: Stay hydrated.
Colorado Springs is a dry climate, so it's important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. This is especially important during the summer months, when temperatures can soar into the 90s.
Tip 3: Be prepared for the sun.
Colorado Springs is known for its sunshine, so be sure to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays.
Tip 4: Check the weather forecast before you go.
The weather in Colorado Springs can change quickly, so it's important to check the weather forecast before you head out for the day. This will help you plan your activities accordingly and avoid getting caught in a storm.
Closing Paragraph:
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip to Colorado Springs, no matter what time of year you visit.
Colorado Springs is a beautiful city with something to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing getaway, you're sure to find it in Colorado Springs.
Conclusion
Colorado Springs is a city with four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique beauty and activities. The city's mild climate and 300 days of sunshine per year make it a great place to visit any time of year.
In the winter, Colorado Springs is a winter wonderland, with plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The city also hosts a variety of winter festivals and events, including the annual Snowdays celebration.
Spring is a time of renewal in Colorado Springs, as the city's parks and gardens come to life with colorful blooms. The weather is mild and sunny, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Summer is the hottest time of year in Colorado Springs, but it's also a time of great beauty. The city's parks and trails are filled with wildflowers, and the mountains are a stunning backdrop for any activity.
Fall is a time of transition in Colorado Springs, as the leaves on the trees turn golden brown and the air becomes crisp and cool. The city's many hiking trails are a great place to enjoy the fall foliage, and the city also hosts a variety of fall festivals and events.
No matter what time of year you visit, Colorado Springs is sure to offer something to enjoy. The city's beautiful scenery, mild climate, and friendly people make it a great place to visit and explore.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Colorado Springs today!