Summer in Estes Park is practically perfect. That's why native Americans summered here 10,000 years ago.

These averages don't reveal the high variance. It can snow in town any summer month, but it won't last long. Outdoor swimming pools must be heated to offset the nighttime cool-down. Temperatures at higher elevations in Rocky Mountain National Park are colder; come prepared to dress in layers. Temperatures are in Farenheight, precipitation in inches.

High variance is the only constant about our weather. There is not a single month of the year which is historically snow-free. On the other hand, there is not a single month in which we do not have picnic lunches on sunny decks.

What to wear at this time of year? Layers, layers, layers. Sunny days, you'll be in short sleeve shirts. Mornings and evenings outdoors, you'll add a sweatshirt or light jacket. For trips into the National Park forget the sandals, take a sweatshirt, jacket, windbreaker. A cap and sunglasses are good too.