Heading into fall, my husband and always have a little bet going. When will we have the first measurable snow? It’s rare to see it in September, but October, it’s almost a guaranteed sure thing. I’m pretty sure my pick was somewhere around October 17 for this year, but boy, did I get that wrong. Even as recently as three days ago, I would have guessed the same thing.
But the weather Gods said differently. An abrupt cold front swooped into the area, bringing moisture with it. Still, I didn’t think the snow would a) make it across the Divide (Continental Divide) or b) get low enough. So, what a surprise it was yesterday morning to awaken to 2 1/2 inches of fresh snow covering the ground.
What made it even more picturesque was that our Aspen trees along our road are still in color, providing the ultimate Colorado scene of blue sky, golden Aspens contrasted with the snow capping the evergreens mixed in. What a treat!
It reminded me of one of my favorite hikes during our days on the Western Slope. Crag Crest on the Grand Mesa is a great 10-mile round trip hike that provides forest, views, and a good work out. Our first fall there, we happened to go up during the height of the aspen color and during an early season snow. The memories of the golden Aspens capped in snow are etched in my memory from that day.
Being the die hard skier that I am, snow in October inevitably brings on the excitement of a new ski season just around the corner. Sure enough, earlier this week, photos showed both Arapahoe Basin and Loveland ski resorts cranking up their snow making machine as they begin their annual fall competition to see who can open first for the ski season. But the weather Gods giveth and they taketh away. Because as quickly as they hand us that snow, the weather is forecast to warm up later this week.
But having experienced a fair amount of Nederland Octobers, I know I can’t put away those shorts and sandals yet. October is a fickle month here in the mountains, and as quickly as the temperatures dive into the 20s, just a few days later, it can feel like summer again.
October is just one big surprise weather-wise — you never know what you might wake up to!
I felt like our first snow was late this year. I’ll have to go through our records. I am always surprised if we haven’t received any snow by the end of September. 🙂
Barb,
It would be interesting to see your weather records. For the six years we’ve been here, Bryon says this is about the same date every year except one.