Fall hiking in the San Juans: Where to go to see amazing colors

The San Juan Mountains in Colorado are renowned for their spectacular fall colors. Here are some of the besttrails to experience the vibrant autumn foliage:

1. Missionary Ridge

• Length: About 10 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
• Highlights: This unknown gem and others in the nearby area put you up close with extensive stands of aspen, making for a breathtaking and memorable experience.

2. Blue Lakes Trail

• Length: Approximately 8.6 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: The trail leads to a series of picturesque alpine lakes, with the surrounding slopes covered in aspens and conifers that turn vibrant shades of yellow and gold in the fall.

3. Engineer Mountain Trail

• Length: Around 12 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
• Highlights: Starting near Coal Bank Pass, this trail features expansive views of the San Juan Mountains and passes through dense aspen forests that create a breathtaking fall foliage display.

4. Hope Lake Trail

• Length: About 7 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: This trail takes you through lush forests and open meadows with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and vibrant fall colors.

5. Bear Creek Falls

• Length: About 5 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Located near Telluride, this trail offers beautiful views of Bear Creek Falls and the surrounding aspen forests, which turn brilliant shades of gold in the fall.

6. Ophir Pass Trail

• Length: Varies (4WD accessible for a shorter hike)
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
• Highlights: This trail is famous for its stunning views of the fall colors in the valleys below and the surrounding peaks. It’s a popular spot for both hiking and off-roading.

7. Lizard Head Trail

• Length: About 7.5 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Starting from Lizard Head Pass, this trail offers incredible views of the fall foliage, with a backdrop of the unique Lizard Head Peak and other surrounding mountains.

8. Red Mountain Pass Trails

• Length: Varies
• Difficulty: Varies
• Highlights: The area around Red Mountain Pass is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rich colors in the fall. Various trails offer opportunities to explore the vibrant aspen forests and striking mountain scenery.

9. Sneffels Highline Trail

• Length: Around 13 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Highlights: This trail offers sweeping views of the Sneffels Range, and the fall colors create a stunning contrast with the rugged peaks and valleys.

Tips for Enjoying the Fall Colors:

• Timing: The peak fall colors in the San Juan Mountains typically occur from mid-September to early October. Places like Missionary Ridge can see colors last into late October depending on the elevation.
• Weather: Be prepared for variable weather conditions. It can be sunny one moment and snowy the next, especially at higher elevations.
• Photography: Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for capturing the rich colors and dramatic landscapes.

What are some essentials needed to hike in the mountains in the fall?

Hiking in the mountains during the fall is rarely complicated or prone to messy problems as long as the weather forecast is good. However, it does make sense to be aware of some specific gear recommendations and some preparations you can make to ensure your safety and comfort. Here's a comprehensive list of essentials:

Clothing essentials

1. Layered clothing
• Base layer: Moisture-wicking material (e.g., merino wool, synthetic)
• Insulating layer: Fleece or down jacket
• Outer layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket
2. Hiking pants
• Preferably quick-drying and water-resistant
3. Warm hat and gloves
• Insulated to protect against cold temperatures
4. Hiking shoes
• Waterproof with good ankle support
5. Wool or synthetic socks
• Avoid cotton, which retains moisture

Gear essentials

1. Backpack
• 20-30 liters for day hikes, larger for multi-day hikes
2. Hydration system
• Water bottles or hydration bladder (carry 2-3 liters)
3. Navigation tools
• A GPS device works best—just make sure to download the trail before you leave cell coverage
4. Headlamp
• Go with a USB headlamp that is fully charged
5. Trekking poles
• Helpful for stability on uneven terrain
6. Multi-tool or knife
• For a variety of uses
7. First aid kit
• Include blister treatment, bandages, and any personal medications
8. Emergency shelter
• Lightweight tarp or bivy sack
9. Whistle
• For signaling in emergencies

Food and hydration

1. High-energy snacks
• Trail mix, energy bars, dried fruit
2. Lunch
• Sandwiches, jerky, or other non-perishable items
3. Electrolyte tablets
• To replenish salts and minerals

Safety and survival

1. Fire-starting tools
• Matches, lighter, and firestarter
2. Emergency blanket
• For warmth if stranded
3. Bear spray
• Works on all sorts of animals
4. Personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger
• For emergencies in remote areas

Miscellaneous essentials

1. Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Protect against UV rays, which are stronger at higher elevations
2. Lip balm with SPF
• To protect lips from sun and wind
3. Insect repellent
• Especially for early fall
4. Trash bags
• To pack out all waste (leave no trace)
5. Smartphone
• For capturing the fall foliage, making notes, and emergency calls (though cell service is not assured in many of the areas listed above)
6. Binoculars
• For wildlife viewing and scoping winter ski lines

Additional tips

• Check the weather forecast: Mountain weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for a range of conditions.
• Start early: Days are shorter in the fall, so plan to finish your hike before dark.
• Know your limits: Choose a hike that matches your fitness and experience level.
• Inform someone: Let someone know your plans and expected return time.
• Stay on marked trails: To avoid getting lost and to protect fragile environments.

By being well-prepared and packing these essentials, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy a safe and enjoyable hike in the beautiful fall landscapes of the mountains.

Tips for cheap hiking in the San Juans

Yes, you need high-quality gear if you want to recreate confidently in the mountains—but no, it doesn’t have to be expensive. What’s the secret? Getting used or low-priced new gear fromDurango Outdoor Exchange. Durango Outdoor Exchange is conveniently located at the north end of Durango just off U.S. 550, right on the way to most hikes described here.

Inside, you’ll find all of the gear you need for fall hikes, from barely usedhiking shoes to day packs, water purification systems, maps, and more. Plus, our staff are out on the trails frequently, so they can update you on conditions and make suggestions for a great day out. Stop by today!