When you picture Halloween in Colorado, you probably imagine costumes, candy, and maybe even a touch of snow. The weather’s honestly as unpredictable as the costumes you’ll see out there. Most years, highs hit the mid-50s and lows hover near freezing, and there’s about a one-in-five shot at rain or snow.
You might step outside into crisp, dry air that’s perfect for trick-or-treating, or maybe you’ll end up bundling against a biting wind. Denver, Colorado Springs, and the mountain towns all tell their own weather stories, each with warm spells, cold snaps, and the occasional Halloween snowstorm.
It helps to know what’s typical—and just how wild things have gotten before—when you’re planning. Whether you’re plotting a neighborhood walk, hosting a backyard party, or driving across the state, understanding Colorado’s climate history helps you guess what might happen on October 31.
Typical Halloween Weather Patterns in Colorado
Halloween weather in Colorado usually brings cool afternoons and chilly nights. Sometimes you’ll get a surprise snow, but it’s not that common.
Temperatures swing a lot, and heavy precipitation isn’t likely. Mountain towns and Front Range cities don’t always match up—each spot has its quirks.
Average Temperatures on October 31st
Long-term National Weather Service records say the average high temperature in Denver on Halloween is about 57°F, and the average low sits near 31°F. These numbers come from over a century of data, so you’ll almost always need a jacket for trick-or-treating after dark.
But temperatures can really swing. Denver’s warmest Halloween hit 79°F (1950 and 2016), while the coldest one dropped to 7°F (2019). That’s a wild difference for late October.
Afternoons often feel mild enough for outdoor fun, but the temperature falls off a cliff after sunset. By late evening, it’s pretty normal to see readings in the 30s, and sometimes even the teens. Layering up is definitely the way to go.
Precipitation and Snowfall Probability
Halloween moisture isn’t as common as people think. The National Weather Service puts the odds at about 19% for rain and 12% for snow in Denver on October 31. Most years stay dry, though a few have seen measurable rain or snow.
Denver’s wettest Halloween brought 0.66 inches of rain in 1889, and the snowiest dumped 8 inches in 1972. More recently, like in 2018, you might see just a trace of snow.
Mountain areas see higher snow chances, but even there, big Halloween storms don’t happen much. If snow does fall, it usually melts fast because the ground’s still warm from daytime sun.
Regional Variations Across the State
Halloween weather isn’t the same everywhere in Colorado. Along the Front Range—think Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs—you usually get cool, dry evenings and just a small chance of snow.
But mountain towns like Aspen, Steamboat, and Breckenridge can be a different story. Highs might only reach the 40s, and snow showers show up more often, especially above 8,000 feet.
On the eastern plains, places like Lamar or Burlington tend to be a bit drier and warmer than the mountains. Still, a strong cold front can sweep in and drop temperatures fast, making things just as harsh as higher elevations.
So, it’s a good idea to check your local forecast before planning Halloween events, especially if you’ll be traveling around the state.
Historical Weather Extremes on Halloween
Colorado’s Halloween weather has thrown out sharp cold snaps, unseasonable warmth, and even heavy snow. National Weather Service records show everything from single-digit lows to nearly 80-degree afternoons. You really never know what you’ll get at the end of October.
Coldest Halloween Events
Some Halloweens have brought brutal cold to the Front Range. In Denver, the coldest low was 7°F in 2019, and that came with snow on the ground. Another rough year was 2002—the high only reached 19°F, with a bit of snow.
Other cold years? 1991 saw a low of 10°F, and 1905 dipped to 12°F. Trick-or-treating got pretty miserable those nights, and families had to bundle up a lot.
The National Weather Service lists the average low near 31°F. But these cold snaps show that temperatures can drop fast. If you’re heading outside, just be ready for freezing conditions, no matter how the day starts.
Warmest Halloween Records
Colorado’s also had some surprisingly warm Halloweens. Denver’s record high hit 79°F in both 1950 and 2016. Other years, like 1999 and 2008, saw the upper 70s, making it feel more like early fall than Halloween.
Even the nights have sometimes stayed warm. In 1933, the warmest minimum was 51°F—that’s almost like a summer night. These warm spells don’t happen every year, but they’re not unheard of, so sometimes you can skip the heavy coat.
The National Weather Service says the average high is about 57°F, so those 70-degree days are definitely outliers. Warm Halloweens make outdoor plans easier, but you still can’t count on them.
Notable Snowstorms and Unusual Conditions
Snow has made a few Halloweens memorable. Denver’s snowiest Halloween happened in 1972, when 8 inches fell. Other years, like 1989 and 1986, brought several inches along with measurable precipitation.
Outside Denver, big Halloween storms have hit too. Colorado Springs got 13.8 inches in 1972, and Pueblo saw 12.6 inches that same day. Those are still the biggest Halloween snow totals in southern Colorado.
The National Weather Service puts Denver’s historical snow chance on Halloween at about 12%, and rain at 19%. Most years are dry, but those surprise storms can really mess with travel and outdoor plans.
Denver’s Halloween Weather: Trends and Data
Denver’s Halloween weather runs the gamut—from warm, sunny afternoons to frigid nights with snow. Historical records show temperatures and precipitation all over the place, so it’s smart to look at both long-term averages and recent years before you make your plans.
Long-Term Climate Statistics
The National Weather Service says Denver usually gets a high near 57°F and a low around 31°F on Halloween. This data goes back to the late 1800s.
Denver’s warmest Halloween hit 79°F (1950 and 2016), and the coldest dropped to 7°F in 2019. Snow doesn’t happen every year, but the historical odds sit around 12%. Rain’s a little more likely, at 19%.
The city’s record snow for Halloween was 8 inches in 1972. Some years, you’ll see only a trace or nothing at all. Most Halloweens are dry, so you never really know what you’ll get.
Denver’s elevation and spot near the Rockies make for some pretty quick weather swings.
Recent Halloween Weather in Denver
If you look at the last decade, you’ll see just how unpredictable Halloween can be. In 2016, the temperature soared to 79°F—one of the warmest ever. Then in 2019, it plummeted to 7°F with snow on the ground.
The last time Denver got measurable snow on Halloween was 2018 (just a trace). Since then, most years have stayed dry, but cold snaps still pop up. In 2023, the low dropped to 17°F at night, while 2022 had a much nicer 69°F during the day.
Here’s a quick look at recent years:
| Year | High | Low | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 51°F | 17°F | 0 in |
| 2022 | 69°F | 36°F | 0 in |
| 2021 | 44°F | 34°F | 0 in |
| 2019 | 42°F | 7°F | 0 in |
| 2018 | 46°F | 30°F | Trace |
This mix of temperatures makes it clear—you really need to check the forecast right before Halloween.
Trick-or-Treating Conditions
For trick-or-treating, you’ll mostly care about evening temperatures and whether snow or rain might show up. Usually, it’s in the 40s to low 50s before sunset, then drops into the 30s after dark.
Snow on Halloween doesn’t happen much, but when it does, it makes walking around tougher. In 2019, icy sidewalks and snow made it a challenge. In contrast, 2016 brought comfortable weather—no heavy coats needed.
Wind can make things feel colder, even if the thermometer doesn’t look bad. A light breeze in the 30s can sting, so layering costumes and planning shorter routes can help when it’s chilly.
Most Halloweens stay dry, so umbrellas rarely matter. Still, Denver’s weather history proves you’ve got to be ready for anything, especially since October weather in the Rockies can flip fast.
Halloween Weather in Southern and Southeast Colorado
Southern and southeast Colorado usually see cooler Halloween conditions, and temperatures can drop fast after sunset. Snow doesn’t show up as often as people think, but cold evenings and breezy weather are pretty normal.
Colorado Springs and Pueblo Patterns
In Colorado Springs, the average high on October 31st is about 63°F, and the average low is near 30°F. National Weather Service records show wild swings, from a warm 84°F in 2016 to a bitter -5°F in 2019. So, it’s smart to prep for both mild afternoons and sharp evening chills.
Snow is possible but not a given. The city has a 19% chance of at least a trace of snow on Halloween. In rare years, like 1972, totals topped a foot, but most Halloweens stay dry.
Pueblo runs slightly warmer than Colorado Springs because of its lower elevation. Highs usually reach the upper 50s, and lows fall into the 20s or 30s. If the wind picks up, nights can feel especially cold, so layering up is a good idea for trick-or-treating.
| Location | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Snow Chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Springs | 63 | 30 | ~19% |
| Pueblo | 57 | 31 | Lower than Springs |
Alamosa and Mountain Region Trends
Alamosa and the mountain valleys are colder than the plains. The average high is about 59°F, but lows often dip to freezing or below. Record lows in the single digits aren’t unheard of, making Halloween evenings some of the coldest in Colorado.
Snow pops up more in higher elevations. Alamosa, for example, saw 13.8 inches of snow on Halloween in 1972—the most ever there. While that’s unusual, light snow or flurries aren’t rare.
Even if it doesn’t snow, temperatures in the San Luis Valley drop fast after sunset. You’ll probably see readings in the 20s by evening, so heavier coats, hats, and gloves are usually smart.
If you’re heading into the mountains, keep an eye out for slick roads when it does precipitate. The National Weather Service suggests checking forecasts closely, since things can change fast in these areas.
How to Prepare for Colorado’s Halloween Weather
In Colorado, Halloween temperatures often drop fast after sunset. Snow or strong winds can show up without much warning.
You’ll stay comfortable and safe if you plan ahead for both chilly evenings and the possibility of slippery conditions.
Costume Planning for Varying Conditions
Halloween weather here can shift from the mild 50s during the day to freezing at night. So, it’s smart to pick costumes that work well for layering.
A thin base layer under your costume keeps you warmer, and it won’t mess up your look too much.
Go for fabrics like fleece or wool, since they block wind and hold heat better. Cotton isn’t the best choice, since it traps moisture and makes you colder if it rains or snows.
If your costume is on the lighter side, toss on a coat or cape that fits the theme. That way, you stay warm and still look festive.
Don’t forget about shoes. Streets and sidewalks might be wet, icy, or snowy. Shoes with solid tread grip way better than smooth dress shoes or thin costume boots.
Warm socks help protect your feet against cold pavement.
If it’s going to be especially cold, swap masks for face paint. Masks can trap moisture and feel gross in freezing air. Face paint lets you get creative without blocking your breath or vision.
Safety Tips for Cold and Snowy Evenings
Trick-or-treating after dark in Colorado often means braving freezing air or slick sidewalks. Bring a flashlight or glow sticks so drivers can spot you, especially if snow or fog rolls in.
Stick some reflective tape on costumes or bags for extra safety.
Bundle kids in mittens, hats, and scarves when temperatures dip into the 20s or 30s. Even a short walk without them can leave fingers or ears numb.
Carry extra layers just in case things get colder while you’re out.
Since snow and ice make falls more likely, walk slowly and use handrails if you see them. Avoid steep driveways or paths that haven’t been shoveled.
Remind kids to take it slow between houses when it’s slippery.
If strong winds are in the forecast, secure costume accessories like hats, wings, or props. Wind can send loose items flying or block your view.
Simple, stable costumes help you avoid accidents when it’s gusty.
Try to keep time outdoors short if temperatures really drop. Plan a shorter route close to home so you can head back quickly if anyone gets too cold.
Climate Myths and Public Perception of Halloween Weather
A lot of folks in Colorado talk about Halloween weather like it follows some kind of script. But if you look at the data, you’ll see huge swings from year to year. That doesn’t always line up with how people remember past Halloweens.
Does It Really Always Snow on Halloween?
People love to say that snow always falls on Halloween in Colorado. But if you check the facts, that’s not really true.
For instance, Denver’s climate data shows measurable snow on only about 12% of Halloweens since the late 1800s. Some years bring a few inches, but many others stay dry and mild.
Down in southern Colorado, snow shows up even less often. According to the National Weather Service, places like Pueblo or Colorado Springs rarely see Halloween snow compared to colder towns like Alamosa.
Even when snow falls, it usually melts fast because October ground temperatures run warmer than in mid-winter.
Your experience really depends on where you are and your elevation. A kid trick-or-treating in Denver might get clear skies and 60°F, while someone in the San Luis Valley could see snowflakes.
The myth of “always snowing” comes from those unforgettable cold years, but if you look at the long-term averages, most Halloweens don’t have snow at all.
Why Weather Memories Persist
You probably remember the coldest or snowiest Halloweens way more than the mild ones. Unusual or disruptive weather just sticks in your mind, doesn’t it?
A year when heavy snow cuts trick-or-treating short feels way more memorable than a calm evening in the 50s.
Families tell these stories again and again, and honestly, they get stronger every time someone shares them.
As years go by, these shared memories start to feel like a real pattern, even if the actual data says otherwise.
Psychologists call this recall bias. It helps explain why so many people swear Halloween is always cold or snowy in Colorado.
Since the extremes are so much easier to remember, they end up overshadowing all those mild, dry evenings.