Cloudcroft, New Mexico Weather by Month

Cloudcroft is a charming village located in Otero County, in the southern part of the state of New Mexico, United States. Nestled in the Lincoln National Forest, Cloudcroft is approximately 90 miles northeast of Las Cruces and about 200 miles south of Albuquerque. The village is situated at an elevation of around 8,600 feet, making it one of the highest towns in the United States. Cloudcroft covers an area of about 1.65 square miles and has a population of approximately 700 residents according to the latest census data.

Geographically, Cloudcroft is characterized by its mountainous terrain, lush forests, and cooler temperatures compared to the surrounding desert lowlands. The village’s location in the Sacramento Mountains provides stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. The area’s unique climate and natural beauty make Cloudcroft a popular destination for tourists seeking a respite from the heat of the lower elevations.

While Cloudcroft does not host any major universities or globally renowned companies, it is within commuting distance to New Mexico State University in Las Cruces and several other higher education institutions in the region. The local economy is primarily driven by tourism, with many small businesses, restaurants, and shops catering to visitors.

Major landmarks in Cloudcroft include the historic Lodge Resort, which dates back to the early 1900s and offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history, and the Cloud-Climbing Railroad, which once transported timber and passengers through the mountains. The village is also known for its scenic trails, such as the Osha Trail and the Trestle Recreation Area, which attract hikers and nature enthusiasts year-round.

Climate and Weather Overview

Cloudcroft experiences a cool, temperate climate due to its high elevation, characterized by mild summers and cold, snowy winters. The area enjoys four distinct seasons, with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year.

Average Monthly Climate Data

Month Average Temperature (°F) Precipitation (inches) Sunny Days
January 29.0 1.5 21
February 32.0 1.3 20
March 37.0 1.4 23
April 45.0 0.8 25
May 54.0 0.9 27
June 63.0 1.5 28
July 66.0 3.8 27
August 64.0 4.2 26
September 59.0 2.6 25
October 49.0 1.7 25
November 37.0 1.2 22
December 29.0 1.7 21

Weather by Month

January

January in Cloudcroft is cold, with average high temperatures around 41°F and lows around 17°F. The month receives an average of 1.5 inches of precipitation, primarily in the form of snow. There are approximately 21 sunny days in January. This time of year is ideal for winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at the nearby Ski Cloudcroft. Natural disasters like snowstorms can occur, impacting travel and outdoor plans. Indoor activities like visiting the historic Lodge Resort or enjoying local cafes are popular during this time.

February

February remains cold with average temperatures around 32°F. Precipitation averages 1.3 inches, with snow still being common. The town enjoys about 20 sunny days in February. Winter sports and indoor activities continue to be popular. Residents can enjoy the serene winter landscapes or participate in community events held indoors. Snowstorms and ice storms remain possible, so it’s important to stay updated on weather forecasts and drive cautiously.

March

March brings a gradual warming, with average temperatures around 37°F. Precipitation increases slightly to 1.4 inches, with a mix of rain and snow. There are approximately 23 sunny days in March. The arrival of early spring makes it a good time for exploring local trails and parks, although conditions can still be wet and muddy. Indoor events and activities provide alternatives during inclement weather. Occasional late-season snowstorms can still occur, impacting travel plans.

April

April sees milder weather with average temperatures around 45°F. Precipitation averages 0.8 inches, primarily as rain. The town enjoys about 25 sunny days. This is an excellent month for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing as the landscape begins to green up. Spring festivals and community events start to pick up, celebrating the end of winter. Thunderstorms can occur, so it’s wise to have indoor plans as a backup.

May

May offers warmer temperatures, averaging around 54°F, with precipitation at 0.9 inches. The town experiences approximately 27 sunny days. This month is perfect for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of Cloudcroft. The mild weather also makes it an excellent time for gardening and participating in local events. While thunderstorms can occur, they are typically brief.

June

June sees the onset of summer with temperatures averaging 63°F. Precipitation increases slightly to 1.5 inches, and there are about 28 sunny days. The warm and mild conditions are ideal for outdoor activities, including boating, hiking, and visiting local parks. Residents and visitors can enjoy the lush green scenery and participate in community events. Thunderstorms are more common in June, so it’s important to stay weather-aware during outdoor activities.

July

July is the warmest month in Cloudcroft, with average temperatures around 66°F. Precipitation averages 3.8 inches, and the town experiences about 27 sunny days. The warm and mild weather is perfect for swimming, boating, and other water-related activities. Despite the heat, July is a great time for outdoor festivals, community gatherings, and enjoying the town’s numerous parks. Thunderstorms are frequent, often providing brief respite from the heat.

August

August continues the warm trend with average temperatures around 64°F. Precipitation remains high at 4.2 inches, and there are approximately 26 sunny days. This is another excellent month for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Cloudcroft. The long, sunny days are perfect for exploring the town’s cultural sites and participating in community festivals. Thunderstorms are common, so it’s important to be prepared for sudden changes in weather.

September

September sees a gradual cooling with average temperatures around 59°F. Precipitation decreases to 2.6 inches, and there are approximately 25 sunny days. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Fall festivals and community events begin to appear on the calendar, celebrating the harvest season. Thunderstorms can still occur, but they are less frequent than in the summer months.

October

October brings further cooling with average temperatures around 49°F. Precipitation increases slightly to 1.7 inches, primarily as rain. The town enjoys about 25 sunny days. The mild weather and changing foliage create a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, leaf-peeping, and visiting local farms for apple picking and pumpkin patches. Fall festivals and community events are in full swing. Occasional rainstorms can occur, so it’s wise to have indoor activities planned as well.

November

November continues the cooling trend with average temperatures around 37°F. Precipitation averages 1.2 inches, with a mix of rain and occasional snow. The town experiences about 22 sunny days. The cooler weather is perfect for indoor and outdoor activities alike. Residents can enjoy the local parks, attend cultural events, and explore the town’s historical sites. The mild temperatures make it a comfortable time for walking tours and outdoor dining. Occasional early snowfalls can occur, signaling the approach of winter.

December

December is one of the colder months in Cloudcroft, with average temperatures around 29°F. Precipitation averages 1.7 inches, primarily as snow. Despite the snow, there are approximately 21 sunny days. The cooler weather and frequent snow showers create a cozy atmosphere, ideal for holiday events and indoor activities. Visitors can explore local museums, enjoy festive events, and participate in community gatherings. Winter sports become more popular as snow accumulates.