Climate

Denver is situated on the high plains at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Moderate temperatures, low levels of humidity, and abundant sunshine provide an ideal climate for year-round activities (get local weather here). Metro Denver has 300 sunny days a year – more annual days of sunshine than either San Diego or Miami Beach.  The wealth of outdoor activities means Colorado frequently ranks as one of the fittest states and Denver one of the most active cities.     

Winter storms are normally brief and snow melts rapidly in the greater Denver area so getting around town in bad weather is rarely a problem (check local traffic here). The nearby mountains and ski resorts, however, receive significant annual snowfall, among the most in the continental US.  Metro Denver's climate is best described as semi-arid, averaging about 16 inches of precipitation annually.  Despite the dry climate, Colorado boasts an abundance of native flora and fauna and spectacular scenery every season of the year.

The Metro Denver region proactively works to maintain a healthy, clean air quality. The Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC) serves as the lead air quality planning agency and works to develop effective and cost-efficient air quality planning initiatives with input from local governments, the private sector, stakeholder groups, and citizens.