April has brought some unexpected but very welcome snow to Colorado! In fact, 60+ inches of snow has graced us during the month! This is great news for both winter and summer outdoor enthusiast alike. Just to put things into perspective, the snowpack is up more than 324% from last year. The graph below shows the snow totals for the Arkansas Basin up until April 30th:
This is exciting news for those interested in summer water activities, especially rafting, since this means higher water levels which in turn means great projections for some exciting whitewater adventures!
The Mountain Mail writes: “The snowpack in the Upper Arkansas River Basin is much better this year than at the same time last year,” Rob White, AHRA park manager, said Thursday. “We are looking forward to a great spring and summer season for whitewater boating.” White said that, as of Thursday, the snow levels in the upper Arkansas basin are more than double what they were at this time last year. “Last year we received very little, if any, precipitation in March and April, while this year we have been more fortunate. The mountains that surround the Arkansas River Valley are continuing to receive snow,” he said.
Not only are Arkansas River levels looking great, but Clear Creek and Colorado River water levels should be above average in 2013.
This week has weather forecasted into the 50’s with sunshine in the mountains which should produce some heavy snow melt. Boating season is upon us and everything is pointing to another great rafting season.