Can I leave the chaps at home? Riding for two weeks from Estes to Durango. What do you think? I need the extra space.

 

Depends on early or late August. Also early am or late pm riding.
August is the "dog days of summer", but the hills can be cool especially if wet.
I know that from Denver to Durango via 285 is a good full days ride.

 

I usually only take my rain gear and my jacket, as it gets downright cold in the mornings, but don't think chaps are necessary. Enjoy your ride.

 

Left for Sturgis this past August 2014 at 5 a.m. From Denver. Until we got to Cheyenne, we were freezing.
I'd bring cold weather gear for Colorado. You will thank me if you ride during sundown.

 

You could probably get by without them...but pack a pair of long johns and rain pants. Long johns don't take up nearly as much space as chaps and you'll need the rain pants no matter what.


I've ridding in sub-freezing temps in mid-August in Colorado when at elevation. Weather here changes quicker than you can blink. Be prepared for it all.

 

I'm also going to spend a week exploring the high mountain passes of Colorado this August after spending a few days in Sturgis. Our plan is to start early in the day and end early to try to avoid the afternoon rains as much as possible.

 

So far that is two yeas and two nays. For right now, I think I will try to carry just in case. When camping, there is a lot of "stuff" to carry. Thanks.

 

Yeah, I agree with the "better to have it" crowd. I've been snowed on every month in the mountains of Colorado except July. Also agree 285 is a gorgeous ride.

 

When I said "Estes to Durango" I actually won't get to Durango for nine days. Stops in Buena Vista, Ouray, Moab and then Durango. I guess I will agree with the "better to have it" crowd as well. I guess I was just hoping.

 

If you are camping, I would highly recommend camping in Black Canyon of the Gunnison down along the river. It is GORGEOUS. It might technically be camping in the Curecanti recreation area but they are right next to each other. Ouray and BV are about an hour away in each direction.

RMNP/Estes could consume an entire day...and the camping areas on Grand lake on the Western side of RMNP and Trail Ridge Road make for some amazing camping if so. From Estes, through RMNP, and down to BV is a very long trip.

And honestly, other than at high elevation, the temps in CO in August are often close to 90-100. Don't fret if you don't have room. Long johns, jeans, and rain overpants are usually enough to get you through any chilly spots.