Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Estes Park, United States, offers a unique winter experience characterized by a wide temperature range, with maximums reaching 15°C (60°F) and stark minimums plunging to -25°C (-13°F). The average temperature sits at a chilly -5°C (24°F), encapsulating the season's briskness. Expect 28 mm (1.1 in) of snow and rain over the month, occurring on about 7 days, contributing to the scenic beauty of the area. With humidity levels hovering around 85%, the air carries a crispness that invigorates the spirit, making December a perfect time for winter enthusiasts to explore the majestic surroundings of Estes Park.
In December, Estes Park experiences a noteworthy transition into the colder winter months, with temperatures typically ranging from a brisk -25°C (-13°F) at night to a daytime average around -5°C (24°F). This month's maximum temperatures reach a mild 15°C (60°F), offering a glimpse of warmth amidst the chilly backdrop of snow-dusted landscapes. Compared to the preceding months, December marks a significant drop, with average temperatures dipping to -6°C (22°F), setting the stage for the winter wonderland that characterizes this stunning region. Despite the deep chill, the relatively more temperate highs invite outdoor enthusiasts to embrace the beauty of winter sports and scenic vistas, striking a delightful balance between crisp air and invigorating sunshine.
In Estes Park, December typically sees a modest precipitation level of 28 mm (1.1 in), making it one of the drier months of the year. With an average of 7 days of precipitation, the late fall transition into winter is marked by infrequent but vital snowfalls. Compared to the wetter months of May and July, which receive over 145 mm and 152 mm respectively, December’s precipitation presents a notable decline, reflecting the region's shift towards drier winter conditions. As the year draws to a close, the lighter water accumulation sets the stage for winter activities, while also hinting at the upcoming snowpack essential for spring runoff. This trend highlights the seasonal rhythm of weather in this picturesque mountainous area, where each month plays its unique role in the climate tapestry.
As December wraps up the year in Estes Park, the humidity reaches a notable 85%, reflecting a trend of increasing moisture as winter deepens. Following a gradual decline from the high humidity of 84% in January, peaking in February at 85%, the month of December mirrors this earlier winter behavior. The transition into spring shows a steady decrease, hitting a low of 62% in July, before gradually climbing again towards the year's end. November sees a rise to 79%, setting the stage for December's winter humidity, which is significantly higher than the summer months. This cyclical pattern highlights how Estes Park experiences a blend of dry summers and more humid winters, creating a dynamic environment that residents and visitors can appreciate throughout the year.
In Estes Park, December typically sees a UV Index of 4, placing it in the moderate exposure category. This means that while sunburn is not an immediate threat, spending prolonged time outdoors without protection can still lead to skin damage. The burn time during this month is approximately 30 minutes, mirroring the conditions of January and November, indicating a seasonal trend towards milder UV exposure as winter sets in. As a contrast to the earlier months of the year, where the UV Index peaks significantly in spring and summer, December offers a welcome respite for sun-sensitive individuals. For more insights on UV exposure throughout the year, including the implications for outdoor activities, visit Estes Park UV Index.
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As December settles in Estes Park, the days continue to shorten, yet the town bathes in a charming glow of sunshine, receiving an average of 236 hours of daylight throughout the month. While this marks a decrease from the sunnier peaks of summer, where June and July bask in an impressive 380 and 386 hours respectively, December still offers a delightful respite from winter's chill. The gradual decline in sunshine hours from the vibrant spring of 341 hours in May to winter's close creates a beautiful tapestry of changing seasons, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the serene winter landscape. The crisp air combined with the soft sunlight creates the perfect backdrop for winter adventures, reminding us that even in the depths of winter, the sun still has a poignant role to play.
In December, Estes Park experiences a 57% chance of sunny weather, indicating a relatively bright end to the year. This percentage sits comfortably above the average chances seen in both the earlier months of winter, like January (51%) and February (43%), and aligns closely with November's 59% chance. Notably, the trend shows a gradual increase in sunshine from the crisp fall months through to December, marking a promising shift as the year wraps up. The slight uptick in sunny prospects suggests that visitors can still revel in outdoor activities amidst the stunning winter scenery.
As December sets in, daylight duration in Estes Park returns to a familiar low, offering just 9 hours of daylight—a repeat of January and November. This seasonal shift reflects a steady decline from the summer months, where daylight peaks at a vibrant 14 hours between June and August. As autumn gives way to winter, the trend showcases a gradual waning of sunlight, beginning with 12 hours in September and tapering off to its winter minimum. This rhythmic cycle highlights not only the beauty of changing seasons but also the comforting predictability of daylight, paving the way for cozy winter nights in this picturesque mountain town.
As December arrives in Estes Park, the tranquility of earlier months gives way to a briskness that defines the winter season. With an average wind speed of 3.8 m/s (8 mph), December sees an increase compared to the preceding months, indicating a notable shift towards more lively winds. This uptick mirrors the trend observed in November, which had its own notable rise to 3.5 m/s (8 mph). The pattern from the year suggests that as we approach the end of the calendar, the winds tend to pick up, creating a refreshing chill that enhances the picturesque winter landscape. Thus, December not only marks the onset of winter but also brings a spirited breeze, invigorating the atmosphere of this charming mountain town.
The weather in Estes Park 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 Estes Park and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January exhibit notably cold weather conditions, with January being slightly chillier overall. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), averaging -5°C (24°F), while January sees even lower temperatures, with a minimum of -27°C (-17°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F), averaging -6°C (22°F). Both months receive similar levels of precipitation, with December recording 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days and January slightly higher at 29 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days. Humidity remains relatively stable, with December at 85% and January at 84%. For more detailed insights on January weather, you can visit Estes Park weather in January.
In December, temperatures can range from a chilly minimum of -25°C (-13°F) to a mild maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average temperature of -5°C (24°F). The month sees about 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 85%. In contrast, February tends to be even colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -29°C (-19°F) and a slightly higher average of -7°C (20°F). Although the maximum temperature is similar at 13°C (55°F), February experiences more precipitation, totaling 44 mm (1.7 in) over 11 days. Both months feature a consistent humidity level of 85%. For more detailed insights, check out Estes Park weather in February.
In December, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), while March sees slightly milder conditions, with an average of -2°C (29°F). Both months experience a maximum temperature of 15°C (59°F), but December has lower precipitation levels at 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days, compared to March's 75 mm (2.9 in) spread across 12 days. Additionally, December’s humidity is higher at 85%, whereas March's humidity is more moderate at 75%. For a more detailed look at the weather during March, check out Estes Park weather in March.
When comparing the weather of December and April, we see notable differences in both temperature and precipitation. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), while April sees a milder average of 1°C (33°F) and a minimum of -21°C (-5°F). Additionally, April has higher precipitation levels at 75 mm (3.0 in) over approximately 11 days, compared to December's 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days. This results in a noticeable decrease in humidity from December's 85% to April's 67%. For more detailed insights on April weather, you can refer to Estes Park weather in April.
December and May present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -25°C (-13°F) to a relatively mild maximum of 15°C (60°F), averaging around -5°C (24°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 85% and relatively low precipitation, with only 28 mm (1.1 in) occurring over 7 days. In comparison, May brings a more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a comfortable maximum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F). However, it is significantly wetter, with precipitation reaching 145 mm (5.7 in) spread over 20 days, and lower humidity at 67%. For more details on the weather in May, you can check Estes Park weather in May.
In December, the weather can be quite harsh, with temperatures typically ranging from a frigid -25°C (-13°F) to a mild 15°C (60°F), while the average hovers around -5°C (24°F). The month sees about 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over just 7 days, and a high humidity level of 85% adds to the cold feel. In contrast, June offers a much more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures around -3°C (27°F) and maximums soaring to 29°C (84°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 13°C (55°F). June experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 19 days, but the humidity is lower at 68%. For more detailed insights, visit Estes Park weather in June.
December and July present strikingly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F), with an average of -5°C (24°F) and a maximum reaching 15°C (60°F). The month sees 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 85%. Conversely, July enjoys a milder climate with minimum temperatures of 2°C (36°F), an average of 16°C (60°F), and maximums soaring to 29°C (84°F). Precipitation in July is significantly higher at 152 mm (6.0 in), occurring across 22 days, yet the humidity is lower at 62%. For more details on the weather during this warm month, check Estes Park weather in July.
December and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F), with an average of -5°C (24°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F), accompanied by high humidity at 85% and light precipitation spread over 7 days. In contrast, August is much milder, featuring a minimum temperature of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F) rising to a maximum of 28°C (82°F). The summer month also experiences significantly more rain, with a total precipitation of 114 mm (4.5 in) over 17 days, and a lower humidity of 63%. For more details on the conditions in August, check out Estes Park weather in August.
In December, the weather is markedly colder compared to September, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -25°C (-13°F) at night to a maximum of 15°C (60°F) during the day. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -8°C (18°F) and daytime highs reaching as warm as 30°C (86°F). Additionally, December experiences higher humidity at 85% and lower precipitation levels of 28 mm (1.1 in) over approximately 7 days, whereas September sees more rainfall at 58 mm (2.3 in) spread across 11 days, accompanied by lower humidity of 63%. For a more detailed look at September weather in Estes Park, check out Estes Park weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, one can see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), while October has slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) to an average of 3°C (38°F). Precipitation is higher in October, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) over 8 days, compared to December's 28 mm (1.1 in) across 7 days. Humidity is also higher in December at 85%, compared to October's 72%. For more detailed information on October weather, you can check Estes Park weather in October.
Comparing the weather between December and November reveals some interesting contrasts. In December, temperatures drop slightly, with a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), while in November, the minimum is a bit higher at -23°C (-9°F) and the average is closer to freezing at -1°C (30°F). Precipitation in December totals 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days, slightly less than November’s 37 mm (1.4 in) spread across 6 days. Additionally, December experiences higher humidity levels at 85%, compared to November's 79%. For a deeper dive into November's weather specifics, you can visit Estes Park weather in November.
December in Estes Park marks a significant shift in weather compared to the milder months of autumn. As temperatures plunge, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, with crisp air and a noticeable increase in humidity, creating a chilly yet invigorating atmosphere. Precipitation becomes more common, adding to the enchanting charm of the season, as light snowfall graces the area on several days, inviting outdoor activities like skiing and snowshoeing. This month’s average temperatures and conditions make it a unique time to experience the serene beauty of Estes Park. For a deeper look into what to expect year-round, visit Estes Park Climate.