General Weather
- Snow is possible every month of the year at elevation
- Temperature swings of 30–40°F between morning and afternoon are common
- Dress in layers, never assume morning weather represents the afternoon
- Check weather.gov the morning of any outdoor activity
Summer Thunderstorms
- Storms build over the Ten Mile Range most afternoons between 1pm and 4pm
- Plan outdoor activities and hikes to finish before noon
- Hail is common, be aware if you have a rental car
- Get off ridges and above-treeline terrain as soon as clouds begin building
Storms typically clear within an hour. They are intense but usually short-lived.
Winter Conditions
- Overnight lows regularly reach –5°F in January and February
- Breckenridge averages 100–120 inches of snow annually in town
- Never set the property thermostat below 60°F, pipes can freeze
- If snowed in, stay put and wait for roads to clear, typically 12–24 hours
Road Conditions
- 4WD or AWD required for most Summit County property locations in winter
- Check I-70 and Eisenhower Tunnel status at cotrip.org before driving in
- Colorado traction law is frequently in effect on I-70 in winter
- Summit County Public Works: 970-668-4210
Sun and UV
- UV is 20–25% stronger at 9,600 feet, and up to 35% stronger on the mountain
- Snow reflects UV upward, doubling exposure on the mountain in winter
- Use SPF 50+ on any exposed skin, even on cloudy days and in winter
- Dry air causes chapped lips and dry skin, bring lip balm and lotion
Drink more water than you think you need. Altitude dehydrates faster than most guests expect.
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency: 911
- Summit County Sheriff: 970-453-2232
- Road conditions: cotrip.org or 511
- Nearest ER: St. Anthony Summit Medical Center, Frisco (in town)
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222