July and August are usually the warmest months, and afternoon thunderstorms are common. Be prepared for both warm and chilly weather, as well as for rain showers. Fall on the Forest is brief but spectacular, as changing aspens cloak the mountains in gold. Peak color time is normally the last part of September. Crisp, sunny days mingle with early snowstorms in what many consider the premier seasons of the year.
Winter brings the abundant powder snowfall that Colorado is famous for.
Most winter recreation, including skiing and snowmobiling, occurs between Thanksgiving and Easter, but high-elevation sites offer good snow much later into the spring. Safe winter travel in the backcountry demands respect, knowledge and preparedness to deal with changing weather conditions and avalanche hazards.