If there’s one thing every Denverite knows, it’s that spring here doesn’t come quietly. April is that wildcard month when you’re sipping iced coffee in a T-shirt one day and scraping ice off your windshield the next.
This month, Denver is expected to put on its usual spring weather spectacle — with some bonus drama. So, if you’re thinking of putting away your winter coat just yet, maybe give it another week… or two.
Temps on a Whimsical Swing
April is a time of transition, but in Denver, it feels more like a weather rollercoaster. Expect average highs around 57°F (14°C), with chilly lows near 34°F (1°C). But averages don’t tell the whole story.
Denver has seen April highs hit a toasty 90°F before — and lows plunge into the single digits. So, yeah… spring here plays by its own rules. One day might call for sunglasses and a patio lunch, and the next? Snow boots and a heated blanket.
Rain… or Snow? Why Not Both.
Denver’s April skies have a flair for the dramatic. The city typically sees about 1.4 inches of precipitation across 12 days — and yes, that includes snow. Late-season snowstorms aren’t rare, and they often show up uninvited. Expect about 6 inches of snow this month, usually wet and heavy enough to bend tree limbs and cause a few power flickers.
So if you see tulips blooming in the yard, don’t get too comfortable. Spring snow is lurking around the corner.
The Silver Lining? Glorious Sunshine
Despite the occasional downpour or flurry, April offers some beautiful, sun-filled days. On average, Denver basks in 10 hours of sunshine a day. That’s enough to melt snow quickly, lift moods, and remind everyone that summer isn’t far off.
A Warmer, Wetter Spring Ahead?
Long-range outlooks, including the Old Farmer’s Almanac, are calling for a warmer and wetter spring than usual for much of the U.S. That means Denver could see more above-average temps and moisture — a trend that aligns with climate shifts showing a 1.6°F temperature increase here since 1970.
So… What Should You Wear?
In true Colorado fashion, the answer is: everything. Keep a raincoat, snow boots, and sunscreen on standby. Layers are your best friend. The only thing more unpredictable than April’s weather is trying to dress for it.
April in Denver is a mood — sometimes bright and beautiful, other times cold and cranky. It’s unpredictable, dramatic, and downright exciting. But that’s part of its charm.
So whether you’re planning a hike, a barbecue, or just trying to get through the daily commute, check the forecast before you head out. Mother Nature isn’t done surprising us just yet.
