When should I visit Breckenridge? Weather in Summit County, CO

The weather in the mountains of Colorado and Breckenridge is so different from the rest of the world and sometimes unpredictable! Whether you’re trying to figure out what to pack for vacation, or choosing what time of year to get married, here is what the weather typically looks like at 9,000ft in Summit County!

We mostly have 3 seasons rather than 4. The snow will start as early as September but is not likely to stick until late October/November. Then the snow is here to stay through winter until it starts slowly melting in April with snow storms continuing into late May/sometimes June. Our true summers don’t fully start until mid/end of June when the wildflowers and greenery starts to peek through!

Winter: November-April

Winter starts a bit earlier in the high country! True winter starts around Thanksgiving with the ski resorts opening and the snow is here for the winter.

December

Average temps: 30° / 19°

December makes for a true winter wonderland. Fun events like Ullr Fest, Christmas, and all the events that come along with it. Plan on larger crowds and be sure to bundle up. It’s like a Hallmark movie!

January

Average temps: 31° H / 19° L

Known to be a little colder, but amazing skiing!

February

Average temps: 31° H / 19° L

Similar to January.

March

Average temps: 38° / 25°

The sun starts to stay out a little longer and sweet spring skiing is here! Still full snowy winter mixed with spring break! We’ll start to see warmer temperatures and sunny days mixed with big snow storms!

“Mud Season” April/May

April

Average temps: 43° / 30°

A few ski resorts start closing and winter is slowing down. We’re not out of the thick of it yet! April will still bring snow storms, but restaurants will start to close for their seasonal cleaning. Still plenty open, with fewer crowds, and likely still snowy and muddy trails.

May

Average temps: 52° / 38°

May is similar to April as we wait for the snow to melt on all the trails and summer to start. Our summers (and even spring) take a little extra long time to thaw out. May could bring beautiful sunny days, but also be prepared for snow storms or rain!

Summer – Mid June-September

June

Average temps: 66° / 50°

The start of summer! Mid to end of June brings a little more green and a little less mud. A beautiful contrast with the snowy peaks that hasn’t melted at high elevations.

July

Average temps: 72° / 56°

Prime wildflower season! It feels like summer is finally here! Town is bustling again and the temperatures are quite literally perfect. Always bring a little jacket as the weather can change in an instant. Prepare for all conditions!

August

Average temps: 68° / 53°

A beautiful summer month and the cooler breeze tells you fall is on it’s way!

September

Average temps: 63° / 48°

Fall is here and the cooler temperatures are coming! The last few weeks of September is prime fall leaf-peeping season.

“Mud Season”

October

Average temps: 50° / 37°

A quieter time to come as the ski resorts are waiting to open, but cooler temperatures.

November

Average temps: 39° / 28°

Ski resorts slowly start to open and winter is on it’s way! Still a quiet time around town, but it will pick up around the holidays.

Tips for Planning Your Trip

• Layer Up: Weather can change quickly, so pack layers for all the conditions. You’ll want layers for any season!
• Seasonal Closures: Some restaurants and shops may close during mud seasons for cleaning and renovations. If you have something on your bucket list, be sure to check the availability.
• When to visit: Plan for larger crowds during major events and holidays. When possible, book ahead of time and make reservations.
• Local weather: Be sure to check the local weather forecasts for your specific date. Also trail conditions regularly. Check trail conditions too if you plan on hiking or exploring.

This is a trip of a lifetime and such a special place! Being prepared will help you stay comfortable, cozy, and ready for any element or adventure that Colorado can bring.