Colorado — Soft gray clouds drift over the Front Range this New Year’s morning, and the air feels more like March than January. Jackets stay light across Denver and Boulder as 2026 opens with unseasonable warmth.
Highs climb into the low 60s today, well above average for early January. Winds stay light, and travel across the metro remains smooth. Streets are dry, and no hazardous weather is expected in lower elevations through the day.
The quiet weather masks a growing shift nearby. Meteorologists now track light snow developing in the mountains later today and into Friday. Accumulations stay minor at first, but snow-covered stretches may appear quickly above 9,000 feet.
By Friday, breezy conditions develop in the high country. Snow continues at times across the Park Range and nearby passes. Slick travel becomes possible on I-70, Berthoud Pass, and Rabbit Ears Pass, especially during higher bursts of snow.
Plan extra time if heading west Friday or Friday night. Conditions may deteriorate quickly at elevation, even as sunshine holds near Denver. Gusty winds could also reduce visibility in exposed mountain areas.
Back along the Front Range, Friday stays mild. Highs again reach the low 60s under partial sun. After sunset, cooler air settles in, dropping lows into the 30s but staying above freezing for most metro neighborhoods.
Saturday and Sunday bring a classic Colorado split. Denver and Boulder enjoy mostly sunny skies with highs in the mid-60s. Meanwhile, light snow lingers in the mountains, with periodic slick spots continuing on higher roads.
By early next week, temperatures ease back closer to seasonal norms. No major storms are expected yet, but winter weather remains locked in for the high terrain.
Heading into the mountains this weekend? Check road conditions before you go. How warm did it feel where you started the New Year?
Five-Day Outlook for Denver–Boulder, Colorado
• New Year’s Day: Cloudy, warm, high near 62°F
• Friday: Partly sunny, breezy, high near 62°F
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 64°F
• Sunday: Sunny and mild, high near 66°F
• Monday: Mostly sunny, cooler, high near 63°F
