Expert: Catherine - 3/30/2001

Question
I am English and my husband and I are visiting Dillon and Vail for two weeks May/June. Could you please tell me what the weather may be like and what sort of clothes should I pack?

Answer
Dear Sandra,  You will be at a high altitude, and the temperature will drop as soon as the sun sets.  You will also find much more intense sunlight than you would be used to in England.  Often in the mountains there will be sudden late afternoon rains and sometimes these are strong.  Prepare for heat, and the cold at high altitudes especially if hiking.  There will still be pockets of snow up on the peaks and most of the melting and run-off of snow water occurs by the end of June.
. You will need a rain and wind proof jacket- preferably with a hood, and a sweater or sweatshirt and jeans to wear after dark and early in the morning. You will also need a  brimmed hat or cap, which you could buy here, to wear hiking. both sexes wear shorts, and hiking boots with heavy socks, or tennis shoes or sandals.  If dining in some of the resort restaurants, you would bring a dress, skirt and pretty blouse and sandals.  Men do have to wear jackets some places, but more usually can wear a nice shirt and slacks with sandals, loafers or tennies- resort wear rather than office wear. There are lots of shops in both towns you are visiting if you run out!   Everyone slathers on sunscreen as you will burn much faster than at lower altitudes.

You would be advised to put it on your face arms and shoulders before leaving your hotel room every day. Carry the tube with you and reapply during the day. If hiking, you will need a day pack, with water bottle- as it is much dryer here at the high altitude.       Have Fun, Catherine