re: Denver/Breckinridge in May-best hikes?

quote:

---

I'm not familiar with the characteristics of such large mountains.

---

Last year, in late July we had to reroute our Tetons backpack due to deep snow/ice. On an average snow year north facing mountains hold snow through July.

quote:

---

How much would that change in a month and a half?

---

This is completely unknown. It wouldn't be uncharacteristic for areas as low as 10,000 feet to receive 1-2 feet of snow on any given night in May.

I would plan on sticking to creek, canyons, and sub alpine lake trails...and hope to be able to summit a high peak, knowing that you might not be able to do so.

Example: This is Trail Ridge Road on 23 May 2011. Elevation 10-12,000 ft.