Mountain Weather Predicting weather in the Rocky Mountains is nearly impossible.
Conditions can change rapidly from hot and sunny to cold and stormy in a matter of minutes.
It's not unheard of for visitors to hike a very warm trail at noon and encounter a snowstorm at higher elevations later in the day. It is a good idea to educate yourself about the mountain climate, especially if your plans include leaving the safety and comfort of your heated or air-conditioned car for a walk in the mountains. The terrain of the Rockies causes climate conditions to vary from one place to another. A good rule of thumb is that temperatures can drop about 3 degrees for every one thousand feet of elevation gain. For the purpose of planning your visit, it's always smart to expect a wide range of and sudden changes in weather conditions.