Autumn colour around Creede: where to see the aspens

For a few weeks each autumn, the aspen groves around Creede turn bright gold against dark spruce, red rock and the first snow on the peaks. It is one of the loveliest times of year in the San Juan Mountains, and one of the quietest.

When to come

The aspens usually peak from the middle of September to early October, starting in the high country and working down the valleys. The exact timing changes with the weather each year, so check recent reports before you travel and give yourself a few days of flexibility.

The best drives

• The Bachelor Loop: aspens around the old mines and wide views over the valley, right from town.
• The Silver Thread: Highway 149 from South Fork to Lake City, with golden hillsides along the Rio Grande and over Spring Creek Pass.
• Wolf Creek Pass: US 160 climbs through great sweeps of aspen and spruce on both sides of the Divide.
• Pool Table Road: the gravel road towards Hanson’s Mill and the Wheeler Geologic Area passes through aspen groves east of Creede.

By steam train

Two of the West’s great narrow-gauge railroads are at their best in autumn. The Cumbres & Toltec climbs from Antonito over Cumbres Pass through vast aspen forests, and the Durango & Silverton follows the Animas River canyon into the high San Juans. Both are popular in autumn, so book ahead.

Tips

• Book your room early: colour weekends are busy even in remote places.
• Bring warm clothes. Autumn days are bright but nights often fall below freezing.
• Hunting seasons run in autumn. Wear bright colours if you hike, and check season dates.
• Some businesses close for the winter in October, so check opening times.