Need advice on packing for June vacation to Summit County Colorado. Where we live it's tshirts and shorts April - November. But a review of average temps shows the lows in the 30 - 40's in June in Colorado. Brrrr. That is our winter. Also I read that Arapahoe still has snow in June - this would be a treat for my children. But what do we pack for that? Fleece jackets? Winter coat? Waterproof boots necessary? I am packing for 3 kids and I am usually very frugal with what we pack - rather spend vacation time having fun not toting bags but I am really at a loss here. Thanks in advance for any info.

We've been there at that time of year with kids. The snow that is left is typically sparse patches of snow drifts (unless you are doing serious mountain climbing to the peaks, and then, you'll need hiking boots). Pack fleece jackets and long pants for the cool evenings and mornings.

Fleece jackets are a good idea. Also a windbreaker with a hood can be used as an extra layer and is good to take with you whenever you are out and about. The weather can change quickly in the mountains. It is usually sunny and warm during the day, but if it becomes cloudy and windy, you will be chilly. Expect chilly temps in the early morning and evening. Do bring jeans/long pants as well as shorts. I'd nix the boots, but be sure everyone has a change of shoes. Also bring a hat or baseball cap. Lightweight gloves are easy to pack and can make a big difference.

Summit County is in the mountains and at that elevation, it can get downright cold in June or later. I can remember at least one year in the 1980's where there was a significant snow storm in July. That is unusual but not unheard of. Days will usually be fairly warm and sunny with the chance of afternoon thunder storms. Evenings and nights can range from cool to cold. The waterproof boots may be overkill but I'd prepare for a range of weather and follow the old adage to dress in layers.

We have gone to Summit County four years in early June. Layers are the key. We wore soft pants or jeans, short sleeves with hoodies. The guys were comfortable in just tee shirts most days but my daughter and I appreciated the hoodies, which we would take off and put back on several times a day.

The sun can get quite warm during the day and then dodge behind the clouds quickly. Sunglasses or a hat with visor will be smart. At night hoodies or sweaters were a must. Anything like winter hats, boots or gloves will be unneccessary. It snowed a little one night we were there, but it was not cold and it was fun to be in the hottub in the snow. We loved the cool weather, great for hiking. Soft, comfty layers are the best. I agree with breckgal on the spare shoes, wet muddy shoes can dampen the vacation. After our first year, we made sure we had a back up pair each.

Don't be surprised to have snow while you're there. But it won't be the kind that stays around long. Mornings are typically clear and nice. Afternoon thunderstorms are typical. Like everyone else has advised, layers are good. Plan your outdoor activities for earlier in the day so as not to be interrupted by weather.

I have sat down for lunch on the lunch on the patio of the Arapahoe Cafe in complete sunshine, and by the time that the food came it was raining. That's not to say the service is slow! Rather the weather will change on a dime.

I wouldn't really worry about water proof boots. A-Basin usually is still open in June but on a very limited basis. As for the lows, it's a dry cold so not as bad as you think.

Be sure to drink LOTS of water, use sunscreen and go slow for the first day or two. You're very high up, at 9,000 plus feet.

Thank you for the advice and for saving me from packing lots of winter gear. Will be quite different from our south Louisiana June. It will be nice to enjoy cool summer evenings for a change (and to think about something besides the upcoming hurricane season!)

Oh Cbbi, at the risk of sounding crazy, you'll be amazed at how different a Louisianna 40s is from a Colorado 40s. The wet, windy cold bites right into you.