Based on ten years of precipitation data, Estes Park receives approximately 13.10 inches of moisture every year. Grand Lake receives about 19.95 inches yearly. This precipitation comes in the form of rain or snowfall through the year. The Continental Divide runs northwest to southeast through the center of the park atop the high peaks. This accounts for two distinct weather patterns, one typical of the east side near Estes Park and the other associated with the Grand Lake area on the park's west side.
Weather conditions change quickly in mountainous areas and snow is possible year round.