New England states like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine are more commonly considered destinations for leaf-peeping vibrant fall foliage. However, if you’ve never experienced the awe-inspiring beauty of Durango, Colorado, in the fall, this year is a great year to start. We’re surrounded by the San Juan National Forest and serve as home base for the Durango to Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, one of the most popular fall train rides in the country.
Fall foliage in Durango is captivating, with pops of red, orange, and yellow typically appearing in mid-September and lasting through mid-October. One of our favorite ways to get views of this foliage up close and personal is hiking in the San Juan National Forest – part of which you can access from across the street from our Durango Bed and Breakfast. This vast expanse of wilderness boasts a diverse array of trails, catering to all levels of hikers and featuring breathtaking views at every turn.
From hiking through the endless miles of trails in the area to fishing the Animas River and riding through the stunning scenery of the Durango to Silverton Train, there are endless things to do in Durango this fall. The only thing better than enjoying the crisp, cool air and the rustle of leaves underfoot is the chance to unwind at our Durango Bed and Breakfast. We offer comfortable, well-appointed guest rooms, a gorgeous and peaceful property to enjoy in the afternoon, a hot tub to soak your tired muscles, daily breakfast and happy hour with house-made food and drinks, and impeccable service throughout your stay.
Our Durango Bed and Breakfast is the perfect home base for your adventures. Book an unforgettable fall getaway today!
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Fall Hiking in the San Juan National Forest
Fall hiking in the San Juan National Forest offers an unparalleled opportunity to see this seasonal transition up close and personal. As the air cools and the days shorten, the leaves gradually turn, transforming the San Juan National Forest into a breathtaking mosaic of reds, oranges, and yellows. There are plenty of ways to get into these mountains to enjoy the colorful show, too. Hikes in the San Juan National Forest range from gentle strolls to challenging ascents with panoramic vistas.
The San Juan National Forest is diverse, featuring a range of landscapes from high-desert mesas to alpine peaks. Total, the forest encompasses nearly 2 million acres of protected lands, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Below, we’ve listed some of our favorite fall hikes to take in the San Juan National Forest near Durango.
- One of the best fall hikes near Durango is the Colorado Trail, particularly the segment at Molas Pass (segment #25). This epic trail is one of the leading long-distance trails in the country, traveling between Denver and Durango. From here, you’ll enjoy stunning views of La Plata Mountains and dense forests of bright yellow Aspens against the deep green of pines.
- Colorado Trail (Segment 25): This section offers stunning views of the La Plata Mountains and lush meadows.
- Engineer Mountain Trail: Known for its challenging climb and rewarding views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
- Ice Lakes Basin Trail: A favorite for its vibrant wildflowers and striking alpine lakes.
- Hermosa Creek Trail: A longer, more moderate hike that winds through diverse landscapes and offers rich wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Purgatory Flats Trail: A relatively easy hike that descends into a beautiful canyon and follows a clear mountain stream.
- Vallecito Creek Trail: Provides a scenic route along the creek with towering cliffs and dense forests.
- Spud Lake Trail: A short, family-friendly hike leading to a serene mountain lake with excellent fall foliage views.
- Pine River Trail: This trail offers a gentle ascent along the Pine River, surrounded by colorful aspen groves in the fall.
- Cascade Creek Trail: Features waterfalls and lush forests, making it a picturesque hike in any season.
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More Things to Do in Durango, CO, This Fall
There are few things better than a fall getaway in Durango, especially when you spend some time hiking through the mesmerizing San Juan National Forest. There are, however, so many more fantastic things to do in Durango, CO, this fall. The town provides the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural enrichment. Whether you take leisurely strolls through the historic downtown, visit the renowned Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, or explore the surrounding trails that showcase the region’s stunning autumn foliage, there’s no shortage of things to do in Durango, CO, this fall.
Get ready to enjoy the crisp mountain air and jaw-dropping landscapes that surround us. As autumn rolls around, we hope you join us for at least one of these fantastic activities. Below, we’ve listed some of our favorite things to do in Durango, CO, in the fall.
- Durango to Silverton Train is by far the best thing to do in Durango in the fall – or, really, at any time of year.
- Fishing
- Mesa Verde National Park – spectacular place to witness the autumn foliage in Durango. With predominantly red hues, the park’s canyons and cliffs create a breathtaking contrast against the bright blue sky. Visitors can take a scenic drive or hike along the park’s trails to immerse themselves in the colorful landscape. The park also offers ranger-led tours and educational programs during the fall season, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and families.