When to Las Cruces
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
January brings mild winter weather to Las Cruces with cool, crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons. Expect chilly nights that can drop to freezing, but daytime temperatures warm up nicely for outdoor exploration. This is an excellent time for hiking and sightseeing without summer crowds.
February
February sees gradually warming temperatures as winter transitions toward spring. Days become increasingly comfortable for outdoor activities, though mornings remain quite cool. The dry conditions and moderate temperatures make this a pleasant time for desert exploration and cultural activities.
March
March marks the beginning of spring with noticeably warmer days and milder nights. This is one of the most pleasant months in Las Cruces, perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring the surrounding desert landscapes. The comfortable temperatures attract more visitors as the season progresses.
April
April offers beautiful spring weather with warm, sunny days ideal for all outdoor activities. Temperatures are comfortable enough for extended hiking trips in the Organ Mountains, and the desert landscape may display spring blooms. This is peak season for outdoor recreation before summer heat arrives.
May
May transitions into early summer with significantly warmer temperatures that can feel quite hot by afternoon. Morning and evening remain pleasant for activities, but midday heat begins to intensify. This is the last comfortable month before the peak summer heat sets in.
June
June brings the onset of intense desert summer heat with temperatures reaching their annual peak. Outdoor activities are best scheduled for early morning or evening hours. The extreme heat keeps tourist numbers low, making this an off-season month despite the long sunny days.
July
July continues the extreme summer heat with scorching afternoon temperatures. This is typically when monsoon season begins in southern New Mexico, potentially bringing afternoon thunderstorms that provide brief relief. Indoor attractions and air-conditioned venues are most popular during this month.
August
August remains very hot but temperatures begin their gradual decline. Monsoon activity may continue with occasional afternoon thunderstorms adding drama to the desert landscape. The persistent heat keeps this firmly in the low tourist season, though warm nights are pleasant for evening activities.
September
September marks the beginning of fall with noticeably more comfortable temperatures, especially as the month progresses. Conditions become increasingly pleasant for outdoor activities, making this a transitional month when tourism begins to pick up. The heat moderates while maintaining warm, sunny days.
October
October delivers some of the year's finest weather with warm days and cool nights perfect for all outdoor pursuits. This is prime hiking season in the Organ Mountains and ideal for exploring the city's attractions. The comfortable conditions and fall colors make this a popular time for visitors.
November
November brings cooler autumn weather with pleasant days and increasingly chilly nights. The comfortable temperatures remain ideal for hiking and sightseeing, though warmer layers are needed for mornings and evenings. Tourist numbers begin declining as winter approaches.
December
December ushers in winter with cool days and cold nights that occasionally dip below freezing. Despite the chill, sunny days remain pleasant for outdoor exploration with proper layering. The holiday season brings festive activities, but overall tourist traffic remains low during this winter month.