For those of us who live in the Southern Hemisphere could someone explain what season it will be and the average temps etc during the AGM.
I presume that it may be fall as we will be in spring with temps around 30C.
Och Aye
Ern
Ern, the average high temperature in Estes Park in September is 21C, the average low is 3C. A bit over an inch of precipitation falls during the month, though Colorado has more days of sunshine than California or Florida. The moisture can be rain or snow this time of year.
It's usually sunny and fairly warm, but can turn cool, cloudy, rainy, or snowy at a moment's notice. One year it snowed all day Saturday and we awoke Sunday morning to beautiful blue skies and sunshine with three or four inches of white stuff on the ground and mist in the hills. It was a real Highland moment.
There's a reason they call this the Highland Festival. Estes Park is surrounded by beautiful high mountains, many of which are snowcapped all year long. Colorado has more mountains over fourteen thousand feet than another state in the U.S. We don't have the highest mountains, but we have lots of them.
As Parker said, mountain weather is changeable. We always say, "If you don't like the weather, wait five minutes." It can go from sunny and warm to cold, rainy, windy, snowy, and back to sunny again, all in the same day. I've seen it snow and rain from a sunny blue sky. So be prepared for that. It won't be arctic winter, you won't need your heavy winter coat until later in the year, but have a sweater and a windbreaker with you at all times, and maybe even an umbrella. A good wool kilt and woolen hose will keep the rest of you warm, with a touch of the Uisge Beatha when necessary.
One thing many visitors don't anticipate is that our sunshine can be more dangerous than in other places. We have less atmosphere to shield us from the ultraviolet. But it's only dangerous to the unprepared. Wear long sleeves and a hat. Use plenty of sunscreen, SPF 30 or better.
It's also important to be prepared for the altitude. We have less oxygen than you're used to at lower elevations. Ideally, come a few days early and acclimate. At least drink lots of water and get plenty of rest. Don't push it until your body gets used to the idea.
Don't let all this intimidate you. We have gorgeous scenery, a wonderful climate, and amazing hospitality. A great time will be had by all.
