Avg High
Denver in December
Verdict
In Denver, December has a distinct winter feel. As the season moves along, temperatures are dropping quickly. You can usually expect a cold month that feels reliable day to day.
It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. Most days are straightforward, and small timing choices matter more than big plan changes.
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
9h
What to expect
- Temperature feel - Wintry air and a sharp cool-down once daylight fades. It often feels a touch cooler in the shade.
- Showers & dry spells - Low chance of washouts. You’ll get wet windows, then dry windows. It’s worth being prepared for occasional rain.
- Midday sun - Moderate sun. You'll feel fine, but it's still easy to get caught out. This is a 'don't forget the hat' month.
- Exposure - Refreshing breezes, and gusts can catch you in exposed spots. It’s the kind of wind you plan around for viewpoints and coastal walks.
December in context
How it compares to the rest of the year in Denver.
Hottest (avg)
#11 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#12 / 12
Daylight Hours
#12 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#8 / 12
Highest UV
#12 / 12
Most Humid
#2 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 9.4 hours
- UV index (max)
- 3
- Typical sun hours
- 07:13 – 16:37
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 6
- Cloud cover
- 43%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 60%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good time to visit Denver?
Typical December days in Denver reach highs of 5°C (41°F) with nights around -9°C (16°F). It usually feels chilly by day and very cold after dark. It is one of the drier months, which suits outdoor exploring and sightseeing.
What are temperatures like in December?
Daytime temperatures in December typically peak near 5°C (41°F), while nights drop to around -9°C (16°F). Expect chilly afternoons and very cold evenings.
How much does it rain in December?
Rainfall in December averages 21 mm (0.83 in) across roughly 6 days. Overall it is a moderately wet time of year, so showers are usually brief rather than all-day downpours.
How many hours of daylight are there in December?
You can expect about 9 hours of daylight in December. Sunrise is typically around 07:13 and sunset near 16:37. Days are on the shorter side, so plan activities around limited daylight.
How strong is the sun in December?
UV levels are moderate (around 3); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.
Is it windy in December?
In December, average wind speeds are around 8 km/h (5 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 40 km/h (25 mph). On the ground, it is a gentle to moderate breeze is common, but stronger winds are not frequent.