Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Telluride, United States offers a dramatic winter experience, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F). On average, residents and visitors can expect a chill of -8°C (18°F), complemented by 85% humidity that adds to the cool ambiance. Precipitation during this month totals approximately 60 mm (2.4 in), occurring over 11 days, ensuring that Telluride remains a picturesque winter wonderland, ideal for skiing and other seasonal activities. Whether you’re enjoying the snow-capped mountains or cozying up indoors, December is a month that captures the essence of alpine charm.
In December, Telluride, United States experiences a chilling embrace of winter, setting the stage for a snowy wonderland. With minimum temperatures dipping to -26°C (-15°F) and average lows around -8°C (18°F), the town's frosty charm is undeniable. As the month progresses, daytime highs can reach a pleasant 9°C (49°F), providing a brief reprieve from the biting cold. This period marks a significant drop in temperatures compared to the milder fall months, with November already showcasing its own frigid conditions. Historically, December's temperatures further illustrate the region's distinctive alpine climate, where the cold intensifies, ushering in the festive spirit and outdoor adventures synonymous with winter sports. With each passing day, the blend of low temperatures and stunning snow-covered landscapes encapsulates the essence of Telluride during the holiday season.
In December, Telluride experiences a moderate level of precipitation, receiving 60 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 11 days. This month marks a shift into winter as snowfall begins to take precedence, aligning with the increase in overall precipitation that peaks in July at 113 mm (4.5 in). Interestingly, December's precipitation mirrors that of earlier fall months like October but contrasts with the drier June. As the year concludes, Telluride sees a steady rhythm of moisture that sets the stage for its picturesque snowy landscapes, inviting both winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers to embrace the seasonal changes.
In December, Telluride experiences a rise in humidity, with levels settling at 85%, mirroring the moisture levels typical of January and November. This trend highlights a distinct seasonal shift, as the summer months exhibit significantly lower humidity, dipping to a mere 36% in July. As the year progresses from the dry summer to the crisp winter, humidity steadily increases, showcasing a pattern of enhanced moisture that peaks in the colder months. Notably, December retains a comfortable balance, ensuring the enchanting winter landscape is accompanied by a slight chill and a refreshing crispness in the air, perfect for holiday festivities and winter sports.
As winter settles in, Telluride experiences a notable decline in the UV Index, with December marking a return to a moderate exposure level of 4. This drop from the extreme levels seen earlier in the year, particularly in the spring and summer months where the Index reached as high as 14, highlights the seasonal fluctuation of UV radiation. Burn time increases to 30 minutes, providing skiers and outdoor enthusiasts a safer window for sun exposure compared to the more critical burn times of only 10 minutes during the peak summer. This consistent trend emphasizes the importance of adjusting sun safety practices as the year progresses. For detailed insights and updates, visit Telluride UV Index.
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December in Telluride sees a gentle decline in sunshine hours, offering 221 hours of daylight that provide a stunning backdrop for winter activities. While December outshines the frigid months of January and November, it falls short of the vibrant sunny days experienced in the spring and summer. As the year winds down, the shifting trend from early winter through the peak summer months reveals a rich tapestry of sunshine, peaking in June with nearly 381 hours. Despite the shorter days of December, the crisp, bright sunlight serves as a perfect complement to the snow-capped scenery, inviting both adventurers and peace seekers alike to embrace the serene beauty of Telluride.
In Telluride, December presents a 49% chance of sunny weather, a notable dip compared to the sunnier months that precede it. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sunshine peaks in the summer, with August basking in 68% brightness, while autumn also enjoys relatively high sun exposure, reaching up to 70% in both September and November. However, as winter sets in, the sun takes a backseat, leaving December trailing behind in sunny chances. This trend suggests a gradual transition from more luminous conditions in earlier months to a subdued brightness as the year wraps up in the snowy embrace of winter—a stark reminder of the seasonal shifts in Telluride's picturesque landscapes.
As December settles in Telluride, daylight begins to wane, offering just 9 hours of sunlight by the month's end. This marks the shortest day of the year, following a gradual decline that began after the summer months, where daylight peaked at a generous 14 hours in June and July. The transition from October to November saw a noteworthy reduction from 11 to 10 hours, maintaining a steady downward trend through the winter solstice. Despite the diminishing light, December's crisp air and enchanting snow-capped mountains create a magical winter atmosphere, inviting locals and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of the season. As daylight hours lengthen again in January, the return of the sun prepares Telluride for a vibrant new year ahead.
In December, the wind in Telluride begins to pick up, averaging 2.3 m/s (5 mph), a refreshing shift from the calmer breezes of the summer months. This month’s speeds reflect a noticeable uptick compared to the transitional winds of autumn, which generally hover around 1.8 m/s (4 mph). As winter approaches, the wind revitalizes the crisp mountain air, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere of this alpine town. The steady increase in wind speeds throughout the year, particularly in December, suggests a gradual transition into the colder months, creating ideal conditions for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The gentle gusts of December not only invigorate the environment but also invite adventure amidst Telluride's stunning landscapes.
The weather in Telluride 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 Telluride and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January exhibit similar average temperatures, both hovering around -8°C (18°F). However, December experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums reaching -26°C (-15°F) and maximums peaking at 9°C (49°F), while January's temperatures are slightly milder, with maximums of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation levels also differ slightly, with December receiving 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days, compared to January's 52 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 85%. For more detailed information on January weather, check out Telluride weather in January.
In December, the weather features a chilly range of temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), reaching a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month sees about 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 85%. In contrast, February experiences slightly milder conditions, with temperatures only slightly warmer, exhibiting a minimum of -25°C (-12°F), an average of -7°C (20°F), and a maximum of 10°C (51°F). February also has a higher precipitation total of 73 mm (2.9 in) across 13 days, with humidity remaining similar at 86%. For more detailed information about the weather in February, check out Telluride weather in February.
In December, temperatures reach a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and average around -8°C (18°F), with a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month sees about 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 85%. In contrast, March features slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), peaking at 11°C (53°F). Precipitation increases to 82 mm (3.2 in) over 13 days but with lower humidity at 76%. For more details on what to expect, check out Telluride weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather conditions, despite having similar precipitation levels. December typically experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), while April offers a milder climate with an average temperature of 0°C (32°F) and a minimum of -17°C (1°F). Humidity is noticeably higher in December at 85%, compared to April's 69%, leading to a chillier feel during the winter month. Both months see around 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation, but December has slightly more frequent rainy or snowy days than April. For a closer look at what to expect in April, check out Telluride weather in April.
December and May present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -26°C (-15°F), with an average around -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of only 9°C (49°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 85% and approximately 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate with minimum temperatures around -12°C (10°F) and averages at 4°C (40°F), reaching highs of 20°C (68°F). With slightly less precipitation at 56 mm (2.2 in) over 10 days and lower humidity at 53%, May is undoubtedly more pleasant. For a deeper dive into the weather specifics for this month, visit Telluride weather in May.
Deciding between December and June for a visit to Telluride reveals a stark contrast in weather conditions. December experiences frigid temperatures, with averages hovering around -8°C (18°F) and minimums dropping to an even chillier -26°C (-15°F), making it a prime time for winter sports. The month also sees higher humidity levels at 85% and approximately 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days, which often falls as snow.
In contrast, June offers a much milder climate, with average temperatures climbing to a pleasant 11°C (52°F), and daytime highs reaching up to 26°C (78°F). This summer month boasts only 30 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over 6 days and features significantly lower humidity at 40%, making it ideal for outdoor activities. For more details on the weather during this vibrant month, you can explore Telluride weather in June.
In December, temperatures in Telluride can plummet to a chilling minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). Characterized by high humidity at 85%, December experiences about 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days, often in the form of snow. In contrast, July brings a dramatic shift, featuring milder temperatures that range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to an average of 14°C (58°F) and peaking at 26°C (79°F). This warm month sees increased precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over 15 days, but with much lower humidity at 36%, making for a significantly different weather experience. For more details, check out Telluride weather in July.
December and August present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures dip significantly, with lows reaching -26°C (-15°F) and an average temperature of -8°C (18°F). The month experiences an average humidity of 85% and about 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to a cold and often harsh environment. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, characterized by minimum temperatures of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). With highs reaching up to 24°C (76°F) and a lower humidity of 44%, August typically brings drier conditions, with around 54 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over just 10 days. For more detailed information, you can visit Telluride weather in August.
In December, the weather experiences a significant drop in temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), contrasting sharply with September's milder conditions where temperatures range from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a much warmer maximum of 24°C (76°F), averaging around 10°C (50°F). Additionally, December sees more days of precipitation (11 days) with a total of 60 mm (2.4 in), while September has slightly less precipitation (50 mm or 2.0 in) over 8 days. The humidity is also higher in December at 85%, compared to 59% in September, making the latter month feel considerably more comfortable. For a more detailed look at September weather in Telluride, check out Telluride weather in September.
December weather tends to be colder and more humid than October, with an average temperature of -8°C (18°F) compared to October's milder 2°C (36°F). While both months experience significant cold, December's maximum temperature peaks at 9°C (49°F), while October can reach as high as 19°C (67°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December with 60 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, compared to October's 52 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days. The humidity also rises notably in December, averaging 85% versus October's 74%. For more detailed information about the weather during this month, you can check out Telluride weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December to November, we see that December tends to be slightly milder on average, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), while November experiences a minimum of -27°C (-16°F) and a higher maximum of 14°C (57°F). December also brings more precipitation, totaling 60 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days compared to November's 43 mm (1.7 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels are comparable in both months, with December at 85% and November at 83%. For a detailed look at November's weather, check out Telluride weather in November.
As December envelops Telluride, it brings a distinct shift in the weather compared to other months. With temperatures dipping significantly, you'll experience a colder atmosphere marked by a chillier average and occasional extreme lows. This month's notable prevalence of moisture adds a touch of winter magic, manifesting as precipitation on several days. Humidity levels remain high, enhancing the crispness of the air and contributing to that quintessential winter feel. For an in-depth look at how December compares to other seasons, check out Telluride Climate.