Our climate, at 6900 feet in elevation, is dry and mild during summer when temperatures tend to range in the 60's - 80's and very cold during winter when temperatures will fall into the single digits. We usually get more snow than Durango. And Forest Lakes will get even more.

The warmest time of the year is July and August with an average maximum temperature of 88 degrees Fahrenheit, while the coldest month of the year is January with an average minimum temperature of 9.20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Please enjoy a 4-Minute Video Tour of downtown Bayfield.

Temperature variations between night and day tend to be relatively big during summer with a difference that can reach 37 degrees Fahrenheit, and relatively big during winter with an average difference of 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

The annual average precipitation at Bayfield is 14.08 Inches. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. The wettest month of the year is August with an average rainfall of 1.71 Inches.

Here are some honest thoughts from someone who moved here from Portland, Oregon in 2006:

- Winter lovers will truly appreciated the area. Cooler temperatures and snow last about six months. Temperatures will occasionally fall below zero.

- If you're coming from a big city, you may need to adjust to a slower pace of life here. Some conveniences won't be near by. Farmington is the closest city bigger than Durango (90 minutes away).

- There's lots of deer around. Great for hunting - not so great for driving. Some would say it's not "if" you'll hit one...it's "when." Stay alert year around or Bambi may wreck your car!

Bambi & Friend Planning Their Next Road Crossing

- Bayfield and Durango aren't the cheapest places on earth to live. Be realistic with your lifestyle, income and expenses. Your basic necessities, like heating costs, might surprise you.

- The elevation (about 7,000 ft.) might take your breath away - literally. You'll probably get winded tying your shoes, but after a few months or so, you'll get used to it.

- Keep water with you as much as possible. This climate will dry you out lickity-split. No joke! You might get headaches and other aches from a lack of water. Get a water container and keep it with you - around the house, at work, in the car, etc.,

- Dry skin is just a part of life here, so just lube up. You might consider buying stock in your favorite moisturizer. It's worse during the winter. Itchy skin. But that's why you get married, right? You rub my back, I rub yours...

- During the spring and summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are common. Why is that a big deal? Well, if you started the day with your sun/moon roof open, you might be looking for a towel to sit on going home. Surge protectors are a smart investment for computer users too!

- It's highly recommended to research the job market here. Durango is tightly connected to the ups and downs of tourism. BP, Mercy Hospital and the Sky Ute Casino are probably the largest employers in the area. Working from home is a popular second-income option.

- Finally, Bayfield is a small town town with country charm. That's perfect for some...difficult for others. Think it through before you commit.

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Town Hall
1199 US Hwy., 160B
Monday - Friday
9:00am - 5:00pm

P.O. Box 80
Bayfield, CO 81122
970-884-9544
970-884-9545
Fax: 970-884-2195

Bayfield Marshall's Office
Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday
9 am - 5 pm
Phone: 884-9636, 884-4630
Emergency: 9-1-1
24-Hour dispatch: 385-2900
Fax: 970-884-2195
Email The Marshall's Office

Animal Control Link

Bayfield Area Education Link

Bayfield Area Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 7
Bayfield, CO 81122
970-884-7372
Toll Free: 1-866-984-7372