mackidloudoun

We are heading to Steamboat for 4 nights and then have 4-5 nights to explore. Thinking about Rocky Mtn National Park, but concerned about snowy, muddy conditions. We have a 10 and 8 year old and while they love the outdoors, not sure how much they will enjoy hiking in those conditions. And how much will be off limits that time of the year. I know we can't predict the weather, but just trying to get a general sense of what we might be looking at in early June. Plan B is to head to Moab instead! Any thoughts on conditions in RMNP the first week of June?

Gretchen

Breckenridge has some attractions for kids. Copper Mountain has the Woodward facility where they can jump on trampolines or into big foam pits--it's where trick skiiers and snowboarders practice their routines.
With kids that age you might explore some of the dinosaur sites in various parts of the state--even on the way to Moab.

Melnq8

Both RMNP and Moab will be busy - we were just in Moab last week and it was a complete zoo when we left on Friday. It'll also be very hot, but I suppose you know that.

RMNP seems to stay busy most of the year anymore - we were there in March a few years ago and it was surprisingly busy - and we did quite a bit of hiking.

I wouldn't be too worried about snow and mud at RMNP - wind and afternoon thunderstorms are more common in June. Trail Ridge Road generally opens around Memorial Day.

More info here:

https://rockymountainnationalpark.co...ail-ridge-road

Prepare yourself for all the dead trees in RMNP - quite sad.

Nelson

The popular higher elevation trails at RMNP usually have some snowpack in early June, but people seem to enjoy slogging around in it.

You can check current snow depth at Bear Lake at this link. This morning, 2019-05-08, it's 40 inches, will probably go up the next few days based on the forecast.
https://wcc.sc.egov.usda.gov/reportG...ue,TAVG::value

fmpden

You will need to watch the road reports through RMNP. A report on local TV today indicated that the traditional opening day for Trail Ridge road through RMNP could be pushed back a week or more. Just too much snow and snow for this week is in the forecast. And it is the same for Independence Pass and the Mt. Evans road. Not only have we had an unusually heavy winter snow, we also have had a higher than average number of avalanches in many areas. That just adds to the problem of clearing the roads. At the moment I would not plan on passing through RMNP during the first week of June. Have a plan B because it will be day to day.

fmpden

Another two feet of snow was dumped on Trail Ridge today. Most speculation today is that the road will not open till first or second week of June. You need to work on your Plan B.

fmpden

Trail ridge is now open. But about all you see on top is 15' high cuts through snow drifts. And all that stuff is going to melt and run down hill.

sylvia3

We were up on Trail Ridge yesterday. Roads were dry, disappointing snow amounts (no "tunnels" on the road to speak of). Snow seems mostly gone from lower parts of the park, except for glimpses in the trees.

MoBro