Denver weather in December
“Cool and moody. Best paired with warm rooms and long lunches.”
Roughly 3 rainy days across the month, on average.
December in Denver brings cold, dry mountain weather. Daytime temperatures average 7.5°C (46°F), while nights dip to -6°C (21°F). You'll experience only about 3-4 rainy days throughout the month with 15.2mm of precipitation, and the city enjoys roughly 8 hours of sunshine daily. Snow is possible but less frequent than January and February, making early December ideal for those seeking winter atmosphere without heavy snowfall.
December transforms Denver into a festive holiday destination. The downtown area glows with seasonal decorations, holiday markets, and ice skating rinks. Crowds increase mid-month as travelers arrive for Christmas, though early December remains relatively quiet. The city's high altitude (1 mile above sea level) intensifies the cold and sunshine, creating crisp, clear days perfect for winter activities.
For 2026, pack warm layers and waterproof gear despite the low precipitation. The combination of cold nights and sunny days means you'll need flexibility in your clothing. Book accommodations early if visiting mid-to-late December, as holiday demand drives prices up. This is an excellent time for skiing nearby, exploring indoor attractions, or enjoying the city's vibrant cultural scene without summer crowds.
What to pack for Denver in December
Denver's December weather demands layering for the cold days and freezing nights. The low precipitation means you won't need heavy rain protection, but insulation against sub-zero temperatures is essential. Bring versatile pieces that work for both indoor and outdoor activities.
- Insulated winter boots with good grip for icy sidewalks
- Thermal base layers (merino wool or synthetic)
- Fleece-lined winter jacket or down parka
- Wool knit beanie and insulated gloves
- Warm sweaters or fleece pullovers
What to pack for Denver in December
- →Lightweight fleeceAmazon · shop this
- →Merino travel socksAmazon · shop this
- →Universal travel adapterAmazon · shop this
- →Compression packing cubesAmazon · shop this
- →Anti-theft crossbody bagAmazon · shop this
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Where to stay in Denver
We don't review individual hotels — plenty of people do that well. What we do is send you to compare rooms in Denver across trusted platforms.
Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Skiing at nearby resorts, ice skating at downtown rinks, exploring Denver Art Museum, holiday shopping at Cherry Creek, snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park.
December vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Denver. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Denver
While December has its own character in Denver, the data-backed best months to visit Denver are April, June, September, October. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across a ten-year climate record.
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for DenverOther places with a similar climate right now
Denver in December — FAQ
Q01Is December a good time to visit Denver?
Is December a good time to visit Denver?
It is a fair time to visit — expect variable conditions and plan flexibility. In December, Denver averages a high of 8°C (46°F) and a low of -6°C (21°F), with 15mm of rainfall across roughly 3 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Denver in December?
What is the average temperature in Denver in December?
The average high temperature in Denver during December is 8°C (46°F), with an average low of -6°C (21°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Denver have in December?
How many rainy days does Denver have in December?
Denver averages approximately 3 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 15mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Denver in December?
What should I pack for Denver in December?
For Denver in December, pack a warm winter coat, a merino base layer for evenings, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Denver in December?
How crowded is Denver in December?
Tourist crowds in Denver during December are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.