Bard College - Weather

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

Bard’s campus is subject to a typical Northeastern climate. There are cold winters with lots of snow, moderate-to-hot summers with constant sun, and rainy springs and cool falls in between. Obviously, the toughest part to weather is the winters. Between the months of November and March, Bardians experience the stark reality of constant snowfall, below freezing temperatures, and barren, isolated woodlands. Some students seem to go into season-long hibernation, while others take full advantage of the weather by staging elaborate snowball fights and sledding trips. Either way, winters can get overlong and dreary up here, so bring some warm clothes and a lot of patience.

Spring is a time of rebirth at Bard. Students emerge from their dorm rooms refreshed and aching to be outside. As it thaws, the campus takes on new life, busy with budding flowers and the slow greening of trees. As more people begin to don shorts and T-shirts, everyone starts to forget about the long winter and look forward to Spring Fling (Bard’s annual outdoor celebration). Of course Fall is also a beautiful season at Bard; there are few other places where the foliage is so vibrant and colorful. If you’re looking for tropical relaxation, don’t look for it at Bard: expect a healthy mixture of the good and the bad; the warm and the cold.

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Students Speak Out

lolo313 says: Bard College 2013 Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics

Meh. Rain and Snow, but Pretty Springs and Falls C It's the north, so it's cold, lots of snow, and yes, rain rain rain. But when it's warm and sunny out, it's amazing. Spring and Fall are the best times to be here at Bard. So, overall, average weather for where we are. 12345 Weather: March 08, 2010 Report

ac544 says: Bard College 2011 Math and Statistics

Weather varies a lot C The weather at Bard varies a lot because the Hudson Valley gets inconsistent New England weather. It gets very depressing and gloomy from November through March, which definitely affects how happy I am on campus and how well I work. When it snows, Bard sometimes cancels the shuttle service without canceling classes, which is a huge problem for people living off campus without cars. It's also long walk from some dorms to classes and the campus is not set up well for travel in heavy snowfall. Once spring arrives, it's beautiful and cheerful. 12345 Weather: March 08, 2010 Report

sb788 says: Bard College 2010 Arts, Visual and Performing

Only expect 3 months of nice weather C you should probably only expect 3 months of nice weather on this campus out of the 9 months you are here. It rains and snows all the time and the irrigation system is horrible. If you have any cherished shoes/clothing either don't wear them or kiss them goodbye. 12345 Weather: February 16, 2010 Report

bardgal1990 says: Bard College 2012 Area, Ethnic, Cultural, and Gender Studies

I wish they would fix the weather... I wish they would fix the weather around here. 12345 Weather: January 02, 2009 Report

Anonymous says:

One problem is the lack of air... One problem is the lack of air conditioning is some of the older dorms. Summer can get unbearably hot. Bring lots of fans just in case. Winter is also harsh, with very cold temperatures. Sledding is fun, as are snowball fights—there is nothing like a good, old-fashioned upstate winter. Bring something with a hood, or maybe earmuffs. 12345 Weather Report

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