Be Prepared for Changing Weather: April’s Unpredictable

Colorado’s changing weather in April can be notoriously unpredictable. The eastern plains and western deserts can be balmy in April, while up at the highest mountain elevations, you can get caught in a blazing snowstorm. Being prepared for the weather in Colorado is a challenge, and April can deliver some of the most variable conditions imaginable.

Check the Weather, but Always be Prepared

Modern weather forecasting has improved drastically over the last few decades. Forecasts used to be completely unreliable, and often a weather forecast from the Front Range would only make a broad generalization about what might happen in the mountains. While making specific predictions about mountain weather is still a fool's errand due to the influence of altitude and topography, modern forecasts' increased accuracy makes them a valuable tool for preparing. However, the best rule of thumb for planning a day in the mountains, especially during April, is NOT to count on the weather or any forecast, and instead be prepared for anything.

Be Adjustable and Plan for the Worst

The best approach to the weather is not to be optimistic just because you have made plans for a fun day. Always prepare for the worst and be pleasantly surprised when the worst-case scenario fails to arrive. Suppose you have plans for a day hike or attending an outdoor event, and due to weather brewing, those plans do not look like the best idea. Be adjustable, spring is a transitional time of year, and finding tasks around the house to better prepare yourself or your family for the coming season is necessary. Making the most of a lousy weather day by “getting ready” for the upcoming season can turn a disappointing day into a fun, productive day.

Get Your Gear Ready on Bad, Changing Weather Days

Bad weather days can mean storing away all your winter gear, such as skis, clothing, and other accessories, and getting all your summer gear out. Take an inventory of what you have and what you need. What do your hiking shoes look like? Does your bike need a tune or new parts to be ready for the season? Check your fishing tackle and your boat.

Take advantage of a lousy weather day by reorganizing and ensuring all your gear is ready for the upcoming season. Create a list of items that need to be purchased or repaired. That way, when heading out for some summer fun, you will have peace of mind knowing where all your gear is and its condition.

Elevation and Changing Weather in Colorado

The higher the altitude, the more unpredictable the weather becomes. In the high mountains of Colorado, a clear blue sky with one fluffy white cloud can turn into a dark grey sky dropping lightning bolts and hail in less than an hour. It’s hard to believe until you’ve seen it happen. Similarly, you can pack your vehicle at a lower elevation on a nice warm sunny day, and by the time you top out across a high mountain pass, it can be a blinding snowstorm. It’s easy during warm spring days to feel comfortable in your shorts, T-shirt, and sun hat; however, a smart, well-seasoned Coloradan will have some sort of leggings, a jacket, and even gloves and a warm hat nearby or in their backpack. Don’t be fooled by the pleasant spring weather, especially when planning a trip or a day hike at higher elevations. Always be prepared with more layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly.

Elevation and Temperature

You should also know that the temperature drops by about 3 degrees for every one thousand feet in elevation gain. Combine that temperature change with plummeting temperatures after a rainstorm, and you can see the need for extra insulation in addition to your trusty rain jacket. The truism about warm clothes is that you can always take them off, but can’t put them on if you didn’t bring them. Bring along weather-proof clothes and warmer layers than you think you will need.

Springtime Outdoor Essentials

A good rain jacket is a safe bet for any outdoor adventure. At the other end of the weather spectrum, extra sunblock and a hat to keep the sun off your head are essential items too. The sun at high elevations can be powerful, not just on your skin, but it will stimulate rapid dehydration.

• A day pack to keep all your additional layers and accessories in.
• A sun hat and sunscreen.
• Wear shorts with zip on pant legs, or bring leggings or a change of pants.
• A long-sleeved shirt, preferably a lightweight wool type.
• A rain jacket, a lightweight weatherproof, insulated jacket or both.
• A lightweight warm cap and gloves.
• A small first aid kit that includes a lighter.
• A water bottle or a hydration system. Link to Amazon, plus a tiny bonus for us.
• Pack snacks.
• Your phone with a map already downloaded on it.
• A map, especially if you plan on going “off the trail.” Knowing how to read a topo map is something you need to practice. Bringing one along for reference is a good idea even when on a popular trail.
• A compass. Not necessary, but day hikes provide an excellent opportunity to practice with navigation devices.

Stay Hydrated

Any outdoor activity in Colorado should include an ample amount of water. This is especially true for hot sunny days. The dry air in Colorado means that perspiration dries quickly, providing excellent cooling qualities, but disguises the amount of fluids your body is losing. You won't notice how much water you have lost since your perspiration will be much less than at lower elevations. Having accessible water and drinking regularly, before you experience dehydration symptoms, is a smart way to keep yourself feeling good and making the most of the day.

Bring Water With

You should bring water for any outdoor activity, especially if you’re out there for over an hour. Water is not something you want to skimp on; it’s better to have too much than not enough. Carry a water bottle in your backpack or choose a hydration system that is part of your backpack.

Water Filters

Consider bringing a water filter if you plan a long day on the trail. Filtering water along the way can reduce your load, as water is heavy. Most mountain trails include water crossings, lakes, creeks, and even springs. However, some places can be dry, and water can become hard to find. Be strategic regarding your route and filter enough water to get through any dry areas.

Overnighting, just in case

The most prepared that you can be is to be prepared to spend the night. While this may be overkill for someone planning a day hike, anyone going backcountry skiing, snowmobiling and/or exploring somewhere new where there is a distinct possibility of getting lost should prepare for possibly overnighting. This doesn’t mean you should bring a tent, sleeping bag, and pad with you, although you might wish you had, but bringing a lighter to start a fire with can be a lifesaver. The ability to start a fire can mean the difference between living to see the sun rise and freezing to death.

Getting Lost in Changing Weather

Nobody plans on getting lost, and there have been many stories of a group losing their way and the one smoker in the group saving everyone with their lighter. A simple lighter from the convenience store could save the day (or night). If you want to be extra prepared, put the lighter in a plastic bag with some fire starter. A bit of paper or cardboard will work, and a cotton ball dipped in petroleum jelly is a pro trick. Rubbing two sticks together to start a fire is insanely hard, and lighters are cheap and effective.

Changing Weather in April and Being Prepared

Being prepared for Colorado’s changing weather, especially in early spring, is necessary. Although checking the weather forecast while preparing for your outing is a good idea, you certainly don’t want to count on it. Due to Colorado's extreme terrain and elevations, weather conditions are unpredictable at best. Bring a backpack and be prepared with necessary clothes, hats, sunscreen, water, a lighter, and snacks. It’s also a good idea to bring a map and your phone, as phone reception can be spotty, so having a hard copy map is best. There’s no such thing as being overly prepared, but there’s a much more significant consequence of being unprepared. Try not to be overzealous. If your plans for the day look like they won’t work out, stay home and get all your gear ready for the upcoming season.

by Doug Demusz