UV Index in Estes Park, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Estes Park, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is key to preventing painful sunburns and reducing the long-term risk of skin issues. With its Dfc climate, Estes Park typically experiences varied UV exposure, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar to 12 or even 13. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the stunning outdoor beauty of Estes Park while ensuring you and your loved ones stay safe under the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Estes Park

The UV Index displays a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting off with a mild 1 at 07:00 and gradually climbing as the sun rises. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate level of 5, but the sun really starts to shine by 11:00, peaking at an intense 12. The apex is reached at 13:00 with an impressive 13, indicating it’s crucial to take sun safety precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping back to 10 by 15:00 and continuing to cool down into the evening, finally settling back to 1 by 19:00. It’s a vivid reminder of how important it is to stay protected during the peak sun hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Estes Park

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From January to February, the UV Index increases from 4 (moderate) to 6 (high), leading to shorter burn times. The risk escalates sharply in March to 9 (very high), with a rapid change to April and May, both marked by an extreme UV Index of 12, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. This extreme level continues through June and July, slightly decreasing to 11 in August. As the year progresses, the UV Index begins to decline, reaching 10 (very high) in September and dropping further to 7 (high) in October. By November and December, the UV Index returns to 4 (moderate). Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of March through August, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Estes Park, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Estes Park. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Estes Park, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Estes Park UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Estes Park compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Estes Park's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Chicago UVI	3	4	6	8	9	10	10	9	8	6	4	2
Brooklyn UVI	3	5	6	8	10	10	9	9	8	6	4	2
New York City UVI	3	5	6	8	10	10	9	9	8	6	4	2
Los Angeles UVI	4	6	8	9	10	11	11	10	10	7	5	4
Estes Park	4	6	9	12	12	13	12	11	10	7	5	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5