Which Is Better for an Above-Treeline Weminuche Wilderness Trip: Second or Third Week of September?

[douglasian]

I'm planning a trip in the Weminuche Wilderness around Silverton/Durango and am hoping to hit that sweet spot when the monsoon season is over and before the mountains receive a few feet of snow.

From what I've gathered looking at climate normals and trip reports, it seems that September is the second wettest month, the monsoon season tends to run later in the San Juans compared to other parts of Colorado, and it's not unheard for the mountains to receive a few feet of snow as early as September 20th.

For those with experience in the area: Would you recommend the second week of September (7th-13th) or the third week (14th-20th) for a mostly above-treeline itinerary?
Any insights on typical weather, storm risk, or snow timing for this part of the area would be much appreciated.

Thanks for your help!

[Scott P]

Yes, on average September is either the wettest or 2nd wettest month in the San Juans, but there are still plenty of good weather days. The monsoon starts and ends later than the rest of Colorado. September can still be monsoon season, but either of those weeks should work. Of course it can snow then, but it's usually a good time to go.

PS, if you want to avoid the monsoon, June and early July is the driest time of year there, but June usually has snow to walk through or climb.

[douglasian]

Thank you for the information and advice.