The Maroon Bells area has a typical high-altitude Rocky Mountain climate. In general, winter lasts from early November until April, with summer reaching its apex in July and August. Spring (roughly May and June) is defined by warm temperatures, lots of mud on trails and occasional thunderstorms. Fall is often a very dry season. Lasting from mid-September until late October, it can be warm during the day and brisk at night. The height of fall color — when the aspen trees turn gold — is late September and the first few days of October.
However, within these patterns of "normal" weather, anything can happen. It can snow in mid-summer, and lightning can occur in winter. Visitors to the area need to prepare for the unexpected.
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