THE NORM
Days are mostly sunny and nice while nights are still cold. Snow is not unlikely but the storms are usually brief and the snow wet. Trails at lower elevations are mostly clear of snow but ice lingers in protected areas. Mud is common on some trails. This is a good time for longer hikes in the lower elevations of the park. Wildflowers and butterflies become more common along the trails.  Year-round birds begin to search for nesting sites. High elevations maintain a good volume of snow but conditions become less favorable for winter activities. Visitation increases with numerous school groups and bus tours arriving in the park.    

April 2011
April has been warm, dry, and often very windy. Pollen is still filling the air so take your allergy medicine before visiting. The turkey vultures have returned and roost nightly in the large cottonwoods near the visitor center. Snow is gone from most elevations and spring flowers are beginning to bloom. Butterflies are flying and our bears are out of hibernation and walking the trails. Remember to keep your distance from all wildlife especially the large furry kind. Never feed wild animals as it is bad for them and for visitors. A fed animal may very well end up a dead animal. All loops in Juniper Campground are currently open. Visitation is picking up but has slowed somewhat with most spring breaks being over.

WILDFLOWERS CURRENTLY IN BLOOM

Easter Daisies
Heron's Bill
Chiming Bells
Wild Plum
Canada Violet
Golden Smoke
New Mexico Olive

 

RECENT WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

Rock Squirrel*
Eastern Fence Lizard*
Mountain Bluebird
Turkey Vulture*
Yellow-rumped Warbler*
Black Bear with cubs*

*Common park residents that made their first appearance this month after either migrating away for the winter or hibernating.