Cheyenne, the capital and largest city of Wyoming, is located in the southeastern part of the state. Located in the heart of the High Plains, Cheyenne is bordered to the north by the Laramie Mountains and to the south by the Colorado border. Geographically, it is located at 41.1399° N latitude and 104.8202° W longitude. As part of the United States, Cheyenne is affiliated with the country’s political and economic systems. With a population of approximately 65,000 residents, Cheyenne is a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and outdoor recreation.
The city covers an area of 24.63 square miles (63.76 km²), making it the largest city by area in Wyoming. Despite its relatively small population density, Cheyenne boasts a diverse economy, including industries such as aerospace, manufacturing, and tourism. One of the city’s most notable landmarks is Warren Air Force Base, a major military installation located to the west of downtown Cheyenne. Additionally, the city is home to the University of Wyoming’s Cheyenne campus, offering a range of academic programs and research opportunities.
Cheyenne is renowned for its rich history, exemplified by its well-preserved downtown area featuring Victorian-era architecture. The Wyoming State Capitol, a prominent landmark, dominates the city’s skyline with its distinctive golden dome. Other notable landmarks include the Cheyenne Depot Museum, which showcases the city’s railroad heritage, and the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, a lush oasis amid the high desert landscape.
Climate and Weather Overview
Cheyenne experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by relatively low precipitation and wide temperature variations throughout the year. The city enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers, cold winters, and mild transitional periods in spring and fall.
Monthly Climate Data
The following table provides average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Cheyenne:
Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
January | 32°F | 0.41 inches | 20 |
February | 34°F | 0.47 inches | 18 |
March | 42°F | 0.84 inches | 22 |
April | 51°F | 1.33 inches | 23 |
May | 61°F | 2.17 inches | 25 |
June | 71°F | 1.61 inches | 28 |
July | 79°F | 1.81 inches | 29 |
August | 77°F | 1.27 inches | 27 |
September | 69°F | 1.14 inches | 26 |
October | 57°F | 0.88 inches | 24 |
November | 43°F | 0.63 inches | 21 |
December | 33°F | 0.48 inches | 19 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Cheyenne is characterized by cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Average temperatures hover around freezing, with highs reaching the low 40s°F (4-5°C) and lows dipping into the teens (-9 to -7°C). Snow is common during this month, with an average precipitation of 0.41 inches (10.4 mm). Outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are popular in the nearby mountains, while indoor attractions like museums and art galleries offer respite from the cold.
February
February continues the winter chill in Cheyenne, with similar temperature and precipitation patterns as January. Average temperatures remain near freezing, although daylight hours begin to increase as winter transitions to spring. Snowfall is still frequent, providing ample opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. Indoor activities such as attending concerts, theater performances, and cultural events offer entertainment options for residents and visitors alike.
March
March marks the beginning of spring in Cheyenne, bringing milder temperatures and occasional snow showers. Average temperatures rise to around 42°F (5.6°C), with daytime highs reaching the 50s°F (10-15°C). While snowfall is less frequent than in the previous months, spring storms can still bring significant precipitation. As the weather begins to warm up, outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching become popular. Visitors can also explore the city’s parks and botanical gardens as nature awakens from winter dormancy.
April
April sees further warming in Cheyenne, with average temperatures climbing into the 50s°F (10-15°C) and occasional days reaching the 60s°F (15-20°C). Spring blossoms emerge, painting the city with vibrant colors, while the risk of snow diminishes. Average precipitation increases to 1.33 inches (33.8 mm), primarily in the form of rain showers. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails, picnics in the park, and visits to local farms for spring festivals and events.
May
May brings pleasant spring weather to Cheyenne, with average temperatures rising to around 61°F (16°C) and longer daylight hours. Rain showers are common, contributing to the city’s lush greenery and blooming flowers. Outdoor activities abound, including gardening, fishing, and exploring nearby national parks and wildlife reserves. Cultural events such as outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, and art fairs offer opportunities for socializing and community engagement.
June
June signals the arrival of summer in Cheyenne, with warmer temperatures and increased sunshine. Average highs reach the low 70s°F (21-24°C), making it an ideal time for outdoor recreation. June is also the driest month of the year, with relatively low precipitation and abundant sunny days. Outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and boating are popular choices for residents and visitors seeking to enjoy the city’s natural beauty. Local festivals and events celebrate the summer season, featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
July
July brings peak summer temperatures to Cheyenne, with average highs in the upper 70s°F (25-28°C) and occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures into the 90s°F (32-37°C). Despite the warm weather, Cheyenne experiences relatively low humidity levels, providing comfort for outdoor activities. July also sees an increase in precipitation compared to June, although rain showers are typically brief and localized. Residents and visitors can cool off by visiting local lakes and swimming pools or exploring indoor attractions such as museums and shopping centers.
August
August continues the summer heat in Cheyenne, with average temperatures similar to those in July. While daytime highs remain in the upper 70s°F (25-28°C), evenings begin to cool down, providing relief from the heat. August is also characterized by afternoon thunderstorms, bringing temporary relief from the summer heat and nourishing the city’s landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking in the cooler morning hours or attending outdoor concerts and events in the evenings.
September
September marks the transition to fall in Cheyenne, with gradually decreasing temperatures and changing foliage. Average highs hover around 69°F (21°C), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and scenic drives. While precipitation remains relatively low, September may experience occasional rain showers as summer gives way to autumn. Residents and visitors can enjoy harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and apple picking at local farms, celebrating the bounty of the season.
October
October brings cooler temperatures and the first signs of winter in Cheyenne. Average highs drop to the mid-50s°F (12-14°C), with increasing likelihood of frost and occasional snow flurries. Despite the cooler weather, outdoor activities such as hiking and leaf-peeping remain popular, offering opportunities to admire the vibrant fall foliage. October also marks the beginning of holiday festivities, with Halloween events and haunted attractions adding to the seasonal excitement.
November
November signals the onset of winter in Cheyenne, with average temperatures dipping below freezing and occasional snowstorms. Average highs reach the low 40s°F (4-5°C), while nighttime lows drop into the 20s°F (-6 to -3°C). Snow accumulation becomes more frequent, creating picturesque winter landscapes throughout the city. Indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending holiday markets, and cozying up with a good book become appealing options as residents prepare for the holiday season.
December
December brings the peak of winter weather to Cheyenne, with cold temperatures and snowy conditions. Average highs hover around freezing, while nighttime lows plummet into the teens (-9 to -7°C). Snowfall is common, contributing to the festive atmosphere of the holiday season. Residents and visitors can enjoy traditional winter activities such as ice skating, sledding, and attending holiday light displays. Indoor attractions such as theaters, art galleries, and restaurants offer warmth and entertainment during the chilly winter months.