Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Crested Butte, United States brings a chilly embrace as temperatures fluctuate from a brisk maximum of 9°C (49°F) to a biting minimum of -30°C (-22°F), with an average hovering around -9°C (15°F). This month is characterized by substantial precipitation, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) across 11 days, creating a winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. With an impressive humidity level of 89%, the air feels crisp and invigorating, perfect for those seeking adventure in the snow-covered landscape.
In Crested Butte, December ushers in the heart of winter with some of the coldest temperatures of the year. The month typically features a chilling minimum of -30°C (-22°F), with an average temperature hovering around -9°C (15°F), while highs barely reach 9°C (49°F). This stark cold marks a noticeable drop from the milder late autumn months, reflecting the transition into a full winter climate. Interestingly, December's average temperature aligns with other winter months like January and February, showcasing a consistent chill that defines the region's wintry charm. As nature blankets the landscape in snow, the community prepares for its vibrant ski season, turning the cold into an invitation for adventure.
In December, Crested Butte experiences a notable shift as the winter season sets in, with precipitation totaling 61 mm (2.4 in), falling on approximately 11 days throughout the month. This increase in moisture is a slight rebound from the more arid late autumn, reflecting the region's transition into a snow-prone period. Comparatively, December's rainfall averages higher than the preceding months like November, which recorded 45 mm (1.8 in) over just 7 days. The consistent humidity and snowfall create a picturesque winter landscape, ideal for skiing enthusiasts, while the steady precipitation contributes to the region's vital water resources. As the year wraps up in Crested Butte, December serves as a reminder of the natural cycles that enrich this charming mountain community.
In Crested Butte, December ushers in a significant rise in humidity, reaching 89%, which is among the highest levels of the year. This increase follows the slightly lower humidity of November at 82% and marks a notable departure from the drier months of summer, where July and August recorded lows of 52% and 56% respectively. As winter settles in, moisture levels spike, reflecting the transition from the dry heat of summer to the crisp air of winter. The trend showcases a gradual increase in humidity as the year progresses into winter, peaking in December and setting the stage for Colorado's beautiful snowy landscapes, making it a habitat for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
In Crested Butte, December ushers in a return to moderate UV exposure, with a UV Index of 4, mirroring the levels seen in January and November. This month's burn time remains relatively generous at 30 minutes, allowing residents and visitors alike to enjoy outdoor winter activities without heightened concern for skin damage. The year kicks off with a gradual increase in UV exposure from January's moderate levels, peaking through the summer months with extreme ratings in May, June, and July. As autumn transitions into winter, UV levels drop back to the moderate range, highlighting the cyclical nature of UV intensity in this mountain town. Staying informed about the Crested Butte UV Index is essential for safe outdoor adventures throughout the seasons.
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In Crested Butte, December ushers in a modest 223 hours of sunshine, heralding the onset of winter with shorter, yet captivating days. As the year draws to a close, one can notice a distinct trend: the gradual decline in sunlight from the summer months, where June and July bask in over 380 hours each, to the twilight of December. This transition not only signifies a shift in season but also enhances the allure of the snow-capped mountains under the soft winter light. While December's hours may be fewer than those of the vibrant spring and summer months, the serenity and charm of a sun-kissed winter landscape continue to beckon adventurers and solitudes alike.
In Crested Butte, December brings a 49% chance of sunny weather, aligning with the somewhat unpredictable patterns seen in the earlier winter months. As the year progresses from January to May, the likelihood of sunny days varies, with a noticeable uptick in sunshine during the summer months, peaking in August at 68%. Interestingly, after November's more favorable 64% chance, December presents a slight decline in sunlit days, reminiscent of the winter chill taking hold. This trend underscores the dynamic nature of Crested Butte's weather, where the joy of winter sports pairs with the occasional sunny reprieve amid the season's embrace.
As the chill of December settles over Crested Butte, daylight stretches to a modest 9 hours, mirroring the transitional nature of the season. This marks a decline from the bright 14 hours enjoyed during the peak of summer months, illustrating a steady decrease as the year draws to a close. January continues this trend, retaining just 9 hours, before daylight begins to gradually increase with the arrival of spring. Following the upward trajectory through the early months of the year, daylight expands by an hour each month, showcasing nature's rhythm as the sun returns with renewed vigor in February and beyond. The shift from shorter days to longer ones evokes a sense of anticipation, highlighting the beautiful ebb and flow of seasonal change in this picturesque mountain town.
As winter settles in Crested Butte, December brings a slight uptick in average wind speed to 2.1 m/s (5 mph), mirroring the conditions of early spring. This month's breezy atmosphere is a gentle reminder of the shifting seasons, as it contrasts with the calmer July, which recorded the year’s lowest winds at 1.6 m/s (4 mph). Interestingly, December’s winds are notably higher than a few months prior, suggesting that the crisp mountain air begins to whip up as the temperatures drop. With winds consistently hovering around similar speeds throughout the year, December stands out, offering both a touch of excitement and a precursor to the blustery days of winter ahead, inviting adventure into the snowy landscape.
The weather in Crested Butte changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Crested Butte and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January exhibit remarkably similar weather patterns, with both months featuring cold temperatures and high humidity. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -30°C (-22°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F). The month brings about 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days, and humidity sits at a high 89%.
In comparison, January sees slightly milder conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and peaking at 6°C (43°F), while maintaining a similar average of -9°C (16°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 57 mm (2.2 in) over 10 days, accompanied by a marginally lower humidity level of 88%. These cool temperatures and consistent moisture make December and January particularly similar in their chilliness, yet January tends to offer just a bit less precipitation. For more detailed insights into January weather, check out Crested Butte weather in January.
When comparing the weather in December and February, both months feature frigid temperatures, but February is slightly milder overall. December experiences a minimum temperature of -30°C (-22°F) and an average temperature of -9°C (15°F), while February sees a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and an average of -8°C (19°F). Precipitation is higher in February, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days compared to December's 61 mm (2.4 in) across 11 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with December at 89% and February at 87%. For more detailed information, check out Crested Butte weather in February.
In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -30°C (-22°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F), while March offers a slightly milder climate with minimums around -21°C (-6°F) and average highs reaching 11°C (52°F). Precipitation in December totals 61 mm (2.4 in) across about 11 days, whereas March sees a bit more rain, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) over 13 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 89%, compared to 81% in March. For more detailed insights, you can check out Crested Butte weather in March.
December and April present markedly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -30°C (-22°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F) and a high of only 9°C (49°F). The month sees substantial humidity at 89%, along with 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over about 11 days. In contrast, April experiences milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -17°C (1°F) to an average of 0°C (33°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Although the month has slightly lower precipitation at 56 mm (2.2 in) across approximately 12 days, the humidity drops to 76%. For a closer look at April conditions, you can explore Crested Butte weather in April.
December and May present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -30°C (-22°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month also sees considerable humidity at 89% and about 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days. In contrast, May brings a noticeable thaw, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (15°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 47 mm (1.9 in) over 9 days, accompanied by a drop in humidity to 66%. For more details, you can check Crested Butte weather in May.
December and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -30°C (-22°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F) and a maximum reaching only 9°C (49°F). The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 89%. In contrast, June offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -5°C (23°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), peaking at 27°C (80°F). Precipitation is significantly lower at 23 mm (0.9 in) spread over just 5 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 58%. For more detailed insights, check out Crested Butte weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet, with averages hovering around -9°C (15°F) and reaching lows of -30°C (-22°F), resulting in a chilly atmosphere with high humidity at 89%. The month typically sees 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, July offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a comfortable average of 15°C (59°F) and highs reaching 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 52 mm (2.1 in), also spread across 11 days, but with much drier conditions reflected in the humidity of 52%. For more details about the pleasant weather in July, check out Crested Butte weather in July.
December and August present distinctly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -30°C (-22°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 61 mm (2.4 inches) over 11 days, with high humidity levels reaching 89%. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (80°F) and an average temperature of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is minimal at 23 mm (0.9 inches) over just 7 days, and humidity is significantly lower at 56%. For a closer look at conditions during this summer month, check out Crested Butte weather in August.
In December, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -30°C (-22°F) and an average of -9°C (15°F), while the maximum reaches a chilly 9°C (49°F). This month also experiences higher humidity at 89% and more frequent precipitation, averaging 61 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -6°C (21°F), an average of 11°C (51°F), and a warm maximum of 26°C (78°F). Precipitation is lighter in September, totaling 28 mm (1.1 in) over just 6 days, and humidity is significantly lower at 65%. For a more detailed look at the pleasant weather during this month, check out Crested Butte weather in September.
December weather is characterized by significantly colder temperatures compared to October, with December's average temperature plummeting to -9°C (15°F) versus October's milder 2°C (36°F). While both months experience low minimum temperatures, October's highs reach a comfortable 20°C (68°F), making it much more pleasant than December's maximum of just 9°C (49°F). Additionally, December sees a higher precipitation level of 61 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, contrasting with October's 48 mm (1.9 in) across 10 days, and a noticeable increase in humidity, which averages 89% in December compared to 76% in October. For more detailed insights on October conditions, check out Crested Butte weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be colder overall, with average temperatures around -9°C (15°F) compared to November’s -5°C (24°F). While both months experience low temperatures, December has a slightly higher minimum of -30°C (-22°F) compared to November's -27°C (-16°F). Precipitation also increases in December, with 61 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, whereas November receives only 45 mm (1.8 in) across 7 days. Additionally, December exhibits higher humidity levels at 89%, compared to November’s 82%. For a more detailed look at this month's weather, visit Crested Butte weather in November.
As December blankets Crested Butte in winter's embrace, the weather takes a sharp turn from the milder conditions of preceding months. The temperatures plummet, presenting a stark contrast with maximums barely reaching above freezing, while the frigid minimums can plunge into the depths of winter chill. This month also brings an increase in humidity and occasional precipitation, with snow beautifully transforming the landscape. Unlike other months, December ushers in shorter days and longer nights, creating a unique, cozy atmosphere perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. To gain a deeper understanding of how this month fits into the broader climate patterns, visit Crested Butte Climate.