January Weather in Estes Park, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

January in Estes Park, United States presents a chilly yet captivating winter experience, with average temperatures hovering around -6°C (22°F). Daily highs barely reach up to 8°C (47°F), while nights can plummet to a brisk -27°C (-17°F), showcasing the region's dramatic temperature fluctuations. Visitors can expect an average of 29 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over 6 days, with a notable humidity of 84% adding a crisp feel to the air. This combination of cold temperatures and snowfall creates a magical winter landscape, perfect for outdoor adventures and cozy retreats alike.

January Temperature in Estes Park

In Estes Park, Colorado, January delivers a frigid chill, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -27°C (-17°F) as the minimum to a maximum of 8°C (47°F), averaging -6°C (22°F). This cold snap sets the tone for winter, as the region continues to experience its coldest month, with February slightly cooler still. As spring approaches in March and April, the temperatures show a gradual upward trend, with March averaging -2°C (29°F) and peaking at 15°C (59°F). Notably, by May, the climate begins to embrace warmth, reflected in rising averages and max temperatures reaching as high as 23°C (74°F). This sunny progression from January's biting cold marks the transition from winter's grip to the promise of spring's mild embrace, showcasing the dynamic temperature shifts that define Estes Park’s annual climate cycle.

January Weather in Estes Park: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Estes Park, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec212028334255605853373024
Data source: Temperature data for Estes Park generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Estes Park

In January, Estes Park experiences relatively modest precipitation, totaling 29 mm (1.1 in) over approximately 6 days. This marks the beginning of the year with lighter rain and snowfall compared to the subsequent months. As winter transitions into spring, February sees a slight increase to 44 mm (1.7 in), while March and April both receive 75 mm (2.9 in) and 75 mm (3.0 in) respectively. Notably, May witnesses a significant uptick in precipitation, with 145 mm (5.7 in) falling over 20 days, heralding the arrival of spring's refreshing showers. This trend continues into the summer months, peaking in July with 152 mm (6.0 in), as the warmer weather brings about more frequent rainfall. By the fall, precipitation begins to wane, ultimately tapering back to 28 mm (1.1 in) by December, creating a picturesque snowy landscape as the year closes. Overall, January serves as a gentle introduction to the wetter seasons ahead, establishing the foundation for the dynamic weather patterns that define Estes Park.

January Precipitation Trends in Estes Park

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Estes Park, with values for each month alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2944757514512715211458513728
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Estes Park

In Estes Park, January brings a notable humidity level of 84%, setting the tone for a month that often feels crisp and cool. This high humidity persists throughout the winter months, with December and February closely following at 85% humidity. As spring approaches, humidity begins to decline, dropping to 75% in March and further decreasing to 67% by April and May, creating a more refreshing atmosphere. The trend continues into the summer, where July and August experience an even drier climate with humidity levels around 62% to 63%. This drier spell gives way to a gradual increase in humidity as autumn arrives, culminating in 79% in November before the cycle resets in December. The overall pattern in Estes Park illustrates a distinct seasonal shift, with winter and late autumn showcasing higher humidity, while the warmer months bring a delightful reprieve.

January Average Humidity in Estes Park

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Estes Park, with January's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how January's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%86%75%67%67%68%62%63%63%72%80%85%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Estes Park

In Estes Park, January brings a moderate UV Index of 4, indicating a burn time of about 30 minutes for those enjoying outdoor activities. As the months progress, a noticeable upward trend emerges, with February jumping to a high Index of 6 and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. By March, the UV Index escalates to 9, categorized as very high, significantly shortening the safe exposure to just 15 minutes. This upward trajectory continues through spring and into summer, peaking in June with an extreme Index of 13 and a critical burn time of only 10 minutes. As the year closes, the UV levels gradually drop, returning to a moderate Index of 4 by December. This seasonal pattern underscores the importance of sun protection, especially in the warmer months. For more detailed insights, visit Estes Park UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Estes Park for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Estes Park in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec469121213121110754
Data source: Estes Park January UVI data generated using 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.

January Sunshine in Estes Park

In January, Estes Park welcomes the year with a modest 186 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase as winter transitions to spring. As February arrives, sunny hours climb to 234, hinting at the longer days to come. The trend continues through March and April, with sunshine hours rising to 289 and 307 respectively, as the landscape awakens from its snowy slumber. May sees a delightful leap to 341 hours, paving the way for the summer months. Peaks of sunshine are reached in July, with a robust 386 hours, before tapering slightly in August at 355 hours. The autumn months feature a gentle decline, with September at 311 hours and October descending to 275. By November and December, the hours dwindle to 247 and 236, marking the year’s close in cozy, overcast charm. The steady progression of sunshine hours throughout the year beautifully illustrates Estes Park's seasonal dance, inviting visitors to embrace both the crisp winters and the vibrant springs.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Estes Park: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Estes Park experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec186h234h289h307h341h380h386h355h311h275h247h236h
Data source: Estes Park January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Estes Park During January

In Estes Park, January boasts a 51% chance of sunny weather, making it a promising start to the year. While not the sunniest month, this likelihood is noteworthy compared to the cooler months that surround it. The trend reveals a gradual increase in sunshine from the depths of winter, with February dropping slightly to 43% but rebounding in March at 49%. As spring approaches in April, the chance of sunny days resets to a balanced 50%, paving the way for warmer months ahead. This pattern of fluctuating, yet generally increasing sunshine culminates in the summer months, where the chances peak at 63% in August. Overall, January presents a refreshing moment of possibility, hinting at brighter days just around the corner.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Estes Park

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Estes Park throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Estes Park experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec51%43%49%50%40%54%58%63%66%58%59%57%
Data source: Estes Park January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Estes Park in January

In January, Estes Park enjoys around 9 hours of daylight, marking the start of the year with shorter days that gradually lengthen. As the winter chill gives way to early spring, daylight extends to 10 hours by February and reaches 11 hours in March. This upward trend continues into April with 13 hours, allowing residents and visitors to relish the stunning mountain vistas for longer. By May and through the summer months of June and July, daylight peaks at a delightful 14 hours, providing ample time for outdoor adventures amidst nature's splendor. As summer wanes, daylight begins to taper off, dropping to 13 hours in August and 12 hours in September. By October, the days shrink back to 11 hours, and both November and December see a return to 9 hours of daylight. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the changing seasons but also enhances the unique charm of Estes Park throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Estes Park for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Estes Park throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 39m10h 40m11h 58m13h 18m14h 26m14h 59m14h 41m13h 41m12h 24m11h 4m9h 55m9h 19m
Data source: Estes Park daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Estes Park

In Estes Park, January often greets residents and visitors with a brisk breeze, as average wind speeds hover around 3.4 m/s (or 7 mph). This gentle yet invigorating air sets the tone for the winter season, being slightly faster than the following month, February, which records a marginal drop to 3.3 m/s. As spring approaches, the winds gradually calm, reaching their annual low of 2.0 m/s in May. Through the summer months, the winds remain stable, fluctuating between 2.1 m/s in July and August, before picking up again in the fall. Notably, November experiences a notable increase to 3.5 m/s, while December winds peak at 3.8 m/s, highlighting a dynamic seasonal transition that blends tranquility with the dramatic flair of mountain weather.

Average January Wind Speed in Estes Park

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Estes Park, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.4 m/s3.32.52.42.02.12.12.22.12.83.53.8
Data source: Estes Park January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Estes Park Compares to Other Months

The weather in Estes Park changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of January'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.

January and February weather in Estes Park exhibit notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -27°C (-17°F) to a maximum of 8°C (47°F), with an average of -6°C (22°F). This month sees 29 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over 6 days and a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, February experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -29°C (-19°F) and a higher maximum of 13°C (55°F), resulting in an average of -7°C (20°F). February also brings increased precipitation, totaling 44 mm (1.7 in) over 11 days, and maintains a similar humidity level at 85%. For a more detailed analysis, you can check out Estes Park weather in February.

January weather is characterized by extremely cold temperatures, with a minimum of -27°C (-17°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F), while March sees a slight warming trend, with average temperatures rising to -2°C (29°F). Precipitation levels also differ, with January receiving 29 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days, compared to March’s 75 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days, indicating a wetter month as spring approaches. Additionally, humidity is higher in January at 84%, compared to 75% in March, reflecting the seasonal shift. For more detailed information, visit Estes Park weather in March.

In January, the weather can be frigid, with temperatures plummeting as low as -27°C (-17°F) and averaging around -6°C (22°F). The month sees limited precipitation, totaling 29 mm (1.1 in) over about 6 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable shift, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), and an average temperature rising to 1°C (33°F). This month experiences more precipitation, with 75 mm (3.0 in) recorded over approximately 11 days, and the humidity drops to 67%. For further details on April conditions, check out Estes Park weather in April.

January in Estes Park is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -27°C (-17°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F). The weather is generally dry, with only about 29 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over six days, and a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, May brings a noticeable shift as temperatures rise, featuring a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and a pleasant average of 6°C (42°F). The maximum temperature can reach up to 23°C (74°F). However, May is significantly wetter, experiencing 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation across 20 days, accompanied by a lower humidity level of 67%. For more details, you can check Estes Park weather in May.

In comparing the weather of January and June, there is a stark contrast in temperatures and precipitation. January experiences frigid conditions with minimum temperatures dropping to -27°C (-17°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F), while June sees a much milder climate with average temperatures of 13°C (55°F) and maximums soaring to 29°C (84°F). Additionally, January receives less precipitation, with 29 mm (1.1 in) over just six days, while June is significantly wetter, accumulating 127 mm (5.0 in) across 19 days. The humidity levels also differ, with January maintaining a high humidity of 84% compared to June's more comfortable 68%. For more detailed information, you can check out Estes Park weather in June.

In January, the weather is frigid, with temperatures ranging from a biting -27°C (-17°F) to a maximum of 8°C (47°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F). The high humidity at 84% exacerbates the cold, and snowfall is common, though precipitation is relatively low at just 29 mm over 6 days. In stark contrast, July brings milder, more pleasant conditions, with temperatures spanning from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a high of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F). Although July is wetter, receiving 152 mm of precipitation over 22 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 62%. For more specifics about the weather in July, you can visit Estes Park weather in July.

January and August present drastically different weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -27°C (-17°F), with an average of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F), accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. Precipitation is relatively low at 29 mm (1.1 in), spread across about 6 days. Conversely, August experiences significantly milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). The summer month sees much more precipitation, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) over approximately 17 days, but with lower humidity of 63%. This stark contrast highlights the region's seasonal variability. For more insights, check out Estes Park weather in August.

In January, the weather in Estes Park is characterized by frigid temperatures, with average highs only reaching 8°C (47°F) and lows plummeting to -27°C (-17°F). The month sees around 29 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over approximately six days, coupled with a high humidity level of 84%, making the cold feel even more intense. In contrast, September experiences a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to an average high of 30°C (86°F). This month also has increased precipitation at 58 mm (2.3 in), occurring over about eleven days, but with noticeably lower humidity at 63%. For more details on the pleasant weather in September, check out Estes Park weather in September.

In January, the weather in Estes Park is characterized by bitterly cold temperatures, with a minimum reaching -27°C (-17°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F), while the maximum only peaks at 8°C (47°F). The month sees about 29 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over roughly 6 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 84%, creating a chilly and damp atmosphere.

In contrast, October experiences a noticeable shift, featuring a minimum temperature of -22°C (-7°F) and a more moderate average of 3°C (38°F), with the maximum soaring to a pleasant 22°C (72°F). This month is wetter, with precipitation totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) spread over 8 days, and the humidity decreases to 72%, which contributes to a crisp fall ambiance. For more details on October weather in the area, visit Estes Park weather in October.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -27°C (-17°F) to a maximum of 8°C (47°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F). In contrast, November sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F), an average of -1°C (30°F), and a maximum of 16°C (62°F). While January experiences 29 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over six days, November has a bit more precipitation at 37 mm (1.4 in) with the same number of rainy days, reflecting the transition towards winter. Additionally, January's humidity is higher at 84% compared to November's 79%, contributing to the overall chill of the mid-winter month. For more detailed insights, you can check Estes Park weather in November.

In January, temperatures in Estes Park typically range from a min of -27°C (-17°F) to a max of 8°C (47°F), with an average temperature of -6°C (22°F). In contrast, December features slightly milder weather, with minimum temperatures around -25°C (-13°F) and a maximum reaching up to 15°C (60°F), resulting in an average of -5°C (24°F). Precipitation levels are similar in both months, with January seeing 29 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days and December at 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days. Humidity remains fairly constant, with January at 84% and December at 85%. For a more detailed look at December's conditions, you can check the link: Estes Park weather in December.

Compare Estes Park's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Estes Park

January in Estes Park presents a dramatically different climate compared to other months of the year. With temperatures plunging to frigid lows and average conditions hovering around -6°C (22°F), this month stands out as one of the coldest in the region. The increased humidity at 84% contributes to a crisp, biting atmosphere, while a modest 29 mm of precipitation over just six days adds a touch of winter beauty to the landscape. Those who embrace the chill of January will enjoy stunning winter vistas that are often absent during the warmer months. For a comprehensive look at the yearly climate trends, visit Estes Park Climate.