Affiliate Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products that we use and love. Your support through these affiliate links helps us continue providing valuable content to our readers. Thank you for your support!
As May begins to bloom in Estes Park, we start to see the transition from our snowy spring to a warmer summer. In this guide about visiting Estes Park, Colorado in May, we’ll help you plan your trip during the very start of our peak tourist season. Let’s jump in!
SKIP TO SECTION
Watch our YouTube video for a detailed guide of Visiting Estes Park in May
CROWDS / POPULARITY IN MAY
The month of May is when the peak tourist season begins in Estes Park. While this month is not quite at the bustling levels of June through September, visitor numbers begin to double compared to April, totaling slightly over 300,000 people. Expect more activity and buzz this month, though it is still notably quieter than the true summer rush.
The busiest time during May is during Labor Day Weekend (or the last weekend in May) as activities, like the iconic Trail Ridge Road, start to fully open for summertime during this weekend.
Related: The Best Time of Year to Visit Estes Park, Colorado
TRANSPORTATION / HOW TO GET AROUND IN MAY
Navigating Estes Park in May sees some improvements in transportation options compared to the shoulder season months. However, take note that ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft very rarely operate in Estes Park, no matter the season. The hiker shuttles in the Rocky Mountain National Park are fully operational starting Memorial Day Weekend (the last weekend in May), as are limited routes for the free shuttles in Estes Park (The Peak). The Bustang bus service also becomes available on weekends from various cities to Estes Park by the end of May.
For more freedom, your best bet is to bring your own vehicle or utilize local ride services like Explore Estes, to get around the area. Explore Estes is a licensed transportation business that offers rides within Estes Park, ride services down the mountain (as far as Boulder), and rides to/from trailheads in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Click here to request a ride with Explore Estes. Rental options are also very limited in town and include Up Top Automotive (limited vehicles) and Backbone Jeep Rentals (specializing in 4×4 rentals). The Turo App is another rental choice.
Important Note: Even though we’re nearing summer, we can still see snow throughout the month of May. With warmer temperatures the ice tends to melt quickly, however, driving in falling snow and slush can still be difficult. Consider an AWD or 4WD vehicle as weather can still be unpredictable. If possible, equip your vehicle with winter or snow tires and carry tire chains as a last resort for 2WD vehicles. National Park roads receive less frequent plowing, so ensure you’re comfortable with icy driving skills before heading into the mountains.
Related: How to Get Around Estes Park Without a Vehicle
WEATHER IN MAY
May signals a shift towards very beautiful and warm weather, yet it still retains an element of unpredictability. There’s a 41% chance of encountering either rain or snow, making it one of the more variable months. In 2022, the last snowstorm of the spring started during the last week of May continuing into the first few days of June, which emphasizes the fluctuating nature of May’s climate. Days boast highs averaging around 59°F (15°C), with lows averaging 32°F (0°C) and occasional dips below freezing. At times, the Rocky Mountain National Park may experience snow while lower elevations and the town of Estes Park bask in sunshine and warmth. Wind speeds average around 12mph (19km/h), becoming less of a concern as we move towards summer.
This month sees the beginning of springtime in the Rockies with lush greenery as grass turns vibrant, and by mid-May, wildflowers start to bloom in lower elevations, with dandelions being among the first. As the snow begins to melt throughout the area, trails at lower elevations will be muddy and begin to showcase more wildflowers towards the middle of the month, but higher elevation trails remain snow-packed. And as we move further towards summer, you can expect the sun to begin rising earlier, around 5:40 AM, extending daylight until approximately 8PM for sunset.
WHAT TO WEAR / PACK IN MAY
Layering remains crucial for visiting Estes Park in May, especially if you plan on hiking at higher elevations. While base layers may not be as essential as in previous months, having a waterproof or resistant outer layer is still advisable. Be sure to wear wool socks and some waterproof boots to keep your feet dry. With warmer weather, clothes like lightweight hiking pants and long-sleeve sun shirts are still advisable to not only keep the harsh sun off of your skin, but to also keep you protected from ticks hiding in the brush.
Leg gaiters still come in handy for keeping slush & mud out of your boots, while micro spikes are essential for icy hikes on popular trails. Snowshoes may still help on a majority of high elevation trails as the snow is melting off into unstable slush! Also, be sure to protect your face from the chilly wind a neck gaiter if you’re hiking at higher elevations in the Rocky Mountain National Park.
Related: What to Pack for Spring in Estes Park, Colorado
Here are some products we use & recommend:
THINGS TO DO IN MAY
As May unfolds, attractions that were closed in the shoulder season begin to open back up including campgrounds, previously shuttered shops and hotels, and best of all, the iconic Trail Ridge Road that leads from Estes Park to Grand Lake. The Rocky Mountain National Park is the biggest draw of visiting Estes Park, Colorado in any season, but please note that Timed Entry Reservations will be required to enter the National Park, starting on Memorial Day Weekend.
Related: Understanding the Rocky Mountain National Park Timed Entry Permit Reservation System
Here’s some of our favorite activities to do in the month of May:
• Take a scenic drive or tour through the Rocky Mountain National Park (animals like elk, deer, moose, and coyotes begin to have their springtime babies!)
• Visit the Historic Stanley Hotel
• Take a hike
• Go Horseback riding
• Ride the Mustang Mountain Alpine Coaster
• Go fishing during the springtime runoff
• Shop downtown on Elkhorn Avenue for souvenirs
Related: Top 18 Things to Do in Spring in Estes Park, Colorado
We hope this overview was helpful for planning your visit to Estes Park, Colorado in May! Have you visisted Estes Park in May? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
0 Comments