Tuesday, May 21, 2019

Ah, Spring

From my deck this morning.

The snowpack in the High Rockies is above average and still growing. Flooding when it melts is a possibility depending on how fast it melts. On the Western side, the Colorado River drainage will get more water than past years. Good news for Lake Powell and Lake Mead. Likewise the Arkansas and Rio Grande Basins look good. 

One of Colorado's premier attractions is Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park from Estes Park to Grand Lake. A toll road closed in winter, the Park Service tries to have it open by Memorial Day. This is what it looks like in late summer (all pictures from Google).


These shots were from five days ago before this storm came.


A note of caution to visitors from lower elevation. High altitude sickness is real, but can be mitigated. You will enjoy your visit more if you prepare. The internet is your friend.

8 comments:

LL said...

That’s what Spring looks like during an ice age

Well Seasoned Fool said...

LL
But, but, but, global warming! CO2 !

Old NFO said...

You can keep it, and I don't think they're going to be open on time!

Well Seasoned Fool said...

Old NFO
One of several seasonal passes not opening soon.

drjim said...

I don't get 'sick' at high altitude, but I definitely feel the effects. The first time we went to Pikes Peak, I got off the train, took three steps, and realized why they had handrails everywhere!

Just about passed out, but I'd bought some canned O2 in the gift shop down at 'ground level', and used it.

Quite the view, though....

Well Seasoned Fool said...

drjim
LIved all my formative years at 7,000 or higher so I'm not bothered.

drjim said...

I don't start feeling it until I'm up to around 9000~10,000'.

Then I just slow down a bit more, and watch my footing carefully!

Well Seasoned Fool said...

drjim
There are things you can do. Staying hydrated is a biggie.

After all, you are there for pleasure. No need to feel like the worst flu ever.