Interested in detailed weather forecasts on Trail Ridge Road?
Let’s know about Rocky mountain national park weather – Temperatures are often moderate at altitudes below 9,400 feet (2,865 m). It can snow even in July at higher points such as Bear Lake, Trail Ridge Road, or Longs Peak. The mountainous climate is also characterized by a significant difference between day and night temperatures. Summer days in July and August often reach the 70s and 80s and turn into the 40s at night.
Annual Climate Conditions
All temperatures are in degrees Fahrenheit. Estes Park receives about 13.10 inches of moisture annually based on ten years of rainfall data. The Grand Lake gets approximately 19.95 inches a year. This rainfall occurs as rain or snow throughout the year.
Climate and weather: what’s the difference?
Climate is a general term for broad models. For example, Colorado’s climate is sunny, with hot summers and cold winters. Time refers to specific movements of air masses, rainfall levels and temperature fluctuations at particular times of the year.
The continental divide runs from northwest to southeast through the peak in the park’s centre. This explains two different climatic conditions: one is the typical east side of Estes Park, and the other is the Great Lakes area on the park’s west side. In recent years, park researchers have been observing climate changes in the park.
Winter (December – March)
The lower elevations on the eastern side of Rocky Mountain National Park are usually free of deep snow. Arctic conditions prevail at high altitudes. Sudden blizzards, strong winds and deep snow are expected. On the west side of the park, there is more snow, less wind and cold, clear days during these months.
Most high-altitude night tours require equipment suitable for -35 degrees or lower temperatures. January, February and March are the best seasons for skiing and snowshoeing.
Spring (April-May)
Spring comes to the highlands-between 8,000 and 9,500 feet (2,438-2,895 meters) above sea level - In late April, although snow is not uncommon at this time of the year. Unpredictable weather alternates between hot and cold, wet and dry. In June, the spring hardly reaches the subalpine countries-from 9,500 to 11,500 feet (2,895-3,505 m), while the summer is flat.
Wildflowers begin to bloom at lower elevations in late April or early May. Many trails are still covered with snow. Trail Ridge Road season opens at the end of May.
In the alpine tundra, in summer (June – August) at an altitude of 11,500 to 13,000 feet (3,505 – 3,962 m), they bloom from late June to early August.
During the day, thunderstorms and wind are expected. Always be prepared for temperature swings of 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit. Autumn (September – November), September and October bring clean and fresh air, blue skies and generally dry weather.
An early blizzard is possible. Aspen leaves begin to change colour in mid-September. The mating season for elk starts in September and lasts most of October. Trail Ridge Road usually closes for the winter in mid-October.