I just wanted to check in here before the Memorial Day weekend regarding the current conditions in Rocky Mountain National Park. Winter is quickly losing her grip on the park but we still have a ways to go in many places.
Lower elevations are starting to green up nicely. This past week we have had lots of wind, rain mixed with snow many of the days but the tug of war between winter and spring/summer is finally starting to lean towards the latter.
Grasses in the lower elevations are greening up and there are even some wildflowers such as Golden Banner starting to grow in earnest in some areas Rocky. Aspens are leafed out and leafing out in many areas but there are some that have yet to even bud out so its a bit hit or miss on photographing those key lime spring aspen trees right now.
Lakes and water below 10,000 ft are all thawed and running at a mild runoff right now. Trail to access places like Dream Lake and The Loch still have spots of snow on them and can be a bit dicey once the days warm up, so be prepared with traction devices and gaiters for your legs if you plan to get off trail or get into some of the higher elevation locations.
As far as Trail Ridge Road goes, I believe it should open by the end of the week. We have had some snowy mornings on the higher elevations but hopefully the plow crews can get the Trail Ridge Road in a safe enough condition to open it to all those waiting to head over to Grand Lake for lunch. It appears that we are going to have a warming trend in the near future which should help as well.
Overall, things are looking great and I can’t wait for the warmer weather and summer conditions to get here. Have lots of great backpacking trips planned and will be out everyday that conditions look promising for photography. Happy shooting!