Alton is a small but vibrant city located in the southern region of Missouri, United States. Situated in the heart of the Ozarks, Alton is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and friendly community. The city is located amidst rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic rivers, offering residents and visitors alike ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. With a population of around 900 residents, Alton maintains a close-knit atmosphere where neighbors know each other by name and visitors are welcomed with open arms. Major landmarks in Alton include the Mark Twain National Forest, which encompasses vast expanses of pristine wilderness, and the Eleven Point River, a popular destination for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking enthusiasts.
Climate and Weather Overview
Alton experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city enjoys four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm and opportunities for outdoor activities. Summers are typically warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s°F (32-37°C). Winters are mild, with average temperatures ranging from the 20s°F (-6°C) to the 40s°F (4-9°C). Precipitation is spread relatively evenly throughout the year, with occasional thunderstorms and snowfall during the winter months. Residents of Alton enjoy a variety of outdoor activities year-round, from hiking and camping in the summer to hunting and fishing in the fall and winter.
Average Monthly Climate Data
Below is a table detailing the average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Alton:
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 40 | 3.11 | 6 |
| February | 45 | 3.19 | 6 |
| March | 55 | 4.50 | 7 |
| April | 66 | 4.45 | 8 |
| May | 75 | 5.51 | 8 |
| June | 83 | 4.29 | 9 |
| July | 89 | 3.47 | 10 |
| August | 88 | 3.39 | 9 |
| September | 81 | 3.56 | 8 |
| October | 70 | 3.25 | 7 |
| November | 56 | 4.25 | 6 |
| December | 44 | 3.52 | 5 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Alton is characterized by cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Average temperatures hover around 40°F (4°C), with precipitation averaging 3.11 inches. Snow is common during this time, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as sledding and snowshoeing.
Recommended Activities: Sledding at local parks, snowshoeing in the Mark Twain National Forest, visiting nearby attractions.
February
February brings similar weather conditions to January, with cold temperatures and occasional snow showers. Average temperatures rise slightly to around 45°F (7°C), with precipitation remaining around 3.19 inches. Despite the cold weather, there are still plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Recommended Activities: Indoor activities such as visiting museums and art galleries, outdoor activities such as snowboarding and ice fishing.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Alton, with milder temperatures and increasing daylight hours. Average temperatures rise to around 55°F (13°C), with precipitation increasing to 4.50 inches. As the snow begins to melt, residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing.
Recommended Activities: Hiking in local nature reserves, birdwatching along the Eleven Point River, fishing at nearby lakes and ponds.
April
April brings warmer temperatures and blooming flowers to Alton, signaling the arrival of spring. Average temperatures rise to around 66°F (19°C), with precipitation decreasing slightly to 4.45 inches. Sunny days become more frequent, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as picnicking, gardening, and visiting local parks.
Recommended Activities: Picnicking in local parks, gardening and planting flowers, visiting botanical gardens.
May
May is a beautiful time to visit Alton, with mild temperatures and blooming foliage. Average temperatures rise to around 75°F (24°C), with precipitation increasing to 5.51 inches. Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and visiting farmers’ markets are popular during this time, as nature comes alive with vibrant colors and new growth.
Recommended Activities: Hiking in local nature reserves, fishing at nearby lakes and rivers, visiting farmers’ markets and outdoor festivals.
June
June brings warm temperatures and long days to Alton, making it an ideal month for outdoor adventures. Average temperatures rise to around 83°F (28°C), with precipitation decreasing to 4.29 inches. Outdoor activities such as camping, kayaking, and swimming are popular during this time, as residents and visitors take advantage of the sunny weather.
Recommended Activities: Camping in local parks, kayaking and canoeing on the Eleven Point River, swimming at nearby beaches and lakes.
July
July is the hottest month of the year in Alton, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s°F (32-37°C). Average temperatures hover around 89°F (32°C), with precipitation decreasing to 3.47 inches. Despite the heat, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking and camping to fishing and swimming.
Recommended Activities: Early morning or late evening hikes, fishing in shaded areas, swimming at local pools or waterfalls.
August
August brings similar weather conditions to July, with hot temperatures and occasional showers. Average temperatures remain around 88°F (31°C), with precipitation averaging 3.39 inches. Despite the rain, there are still plenty of sunny days for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing.
Recommended Activities: Hiking in shaded areas, fishing at nearby lakes and ponds, attending outdoor concerts and events.
September
September marks the transition to fall in Alton, with cooler temperatures and changing foliage. Average temperatures drop to around 81°F (27°C), with precipitation increasing slightly to 3.56 inches. Despite the cooler weather, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, birdwatching, and attending fall festivals.
Recommended Activities: Hiking in colorful forests, birdwatching along scenic trails, attending fall fairs and festivals.
October
October brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage to Alton, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. Average temperatures drop to around 70°F (21°C), with precipitation increasing to 3.25 inches. Outdoor activities such as hiking, leaf-peeping, and visiting pumpkin patches are popular during this time.
Recommended Activities: Hiking in colorful forests, leaf-peeping along scenic drives, visiting pumpkin patches and apple orchards.
November
November is a transitional month in Alton, with cooler temperatures and occasional snow showers. Average temperatures drop to around 56°F (13°C), with precipitation increasing to 4.25 inches. Despite the cooler weather, there are still plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy, including visiting museums, attending holiday markets, and hiking in scenic areas.
Recommended Activities: Visiting museums and art galleries, attending holiday markets and craft fairs, hiking in scenic areas.
December
December brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall to Alton, making it a festive time to visit the city. Average temperatures drop to around 44°F (7°C), with precipitation decreasing to 3.52 inches. Despite the cold weather, there are still plenty of holiday events and activities to enjoy, including festive parades, holiday markets, and seasonal decorations.
Recommended Activities: Enjoying holiday events and festivals, shopping for unique gifts, ice skating at local rinks.