When to Go

Visiting the Front Range is pleasurable in any season. Wintertime in the urban corridor can be mild, but the mountainous regions are cold and snowy. Snowfall along the Front Range is highest in spring, particularly March, making for excellent skiing, but poor car travel. Spring is capricious -- 75°F one day and a blizzard the next -- and June can be hot or cool and rainy. July typically ushers in high summer, which can last through September, although most 90-plus-degree days occur in July and early August. In the higher mountains, summer temperatures are generally 15-20 degrees cooler than in the urban corridor. Afternoon summer thunderstorms can last 30 minutes or all evening. Fall has crisp sunny days and cool nights, some cold enough for frost in nonurban areas.

Art and music festivals start up in May and continue through September. With them comes an increase in tourist traffic. Spring and summer are the best times to watch for wildlife or fish.