I'd actually be more concerned about salt than a little snow. May be doing a Black Hills trip in late October, would hate to get salted over a sprinkle of snow. Have no idea how SD salts; MN often pre-salts, then it doesn't snow and your paint gets dinged by salt chunks. If it wasn't for salt, I'd want to do a sidecar trip through the 'Hills in mid winter, bet it's real scenic then.

 

It's raining and 58 degrees this evening. Twenty miles north they say it may snow above 8,000 feet.

 

Alot to think about, I just happen to have off 6 days on my work schedule without having to use vacation time. Denver Harley even told me that they dont rent bikes after the 19th of october. My wife wants to do something else that doesnt include riding a motorcycle, Im not in favor of a compromise at this point.

Cold Im ok with, its black ice and snow that I wont have anything to do with.

 

I just got back from the Black Hills today. It was pretty warm around there with highs in the low to mid 90's. Lows at night ranged from the upper 50's to low 60's. Beautiful country and lots of excellent riding.

 

snow above 7500 feet, colder in the mornings and at night (40s)

warm during day

changes quickly

pack warm, bring rain suit

 

North central Wyoming. Just shows what you can get this time of year.

 

Saw on the weather this morning that Yellowstone/bozeman area was getting like 12" of snow. I would avoid tetons and yellowstone but you would probably be good in the black hills.

 

From Denver Harley, take 285/14 towards Manitou Springs. If weather holds, ride up here-

 

For the most part, you should be fine. It will probably be in the mid 60s to high 70s during the day. When the sun goes down, it will be cooler here than in PA. BUT, there is always a chance that it will be cloudy or raining, and it can get quite chilly during those times during the day. So, most likely you will be able to wear the same stuff you wear in PA in late September, but pack some heavy & warm riding clothes too.

 

Most of these posts can be summarized in one short sentence...Be prepared for any type of weather. High winds, rain, snow, and possibly beautiful riding weather. That time of year can bring almost anything.

The ride up to Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons is great especially if you take a more westerly route through Craig, CO and Rock Springs, WY. The ride from Denver to Mt Rushmore is 6 hours of flatland with the last hour or so of gorgeous scenery.

Have a great time!