Natural History Wanderings

San Juan National Forest posted a new fall color report on 9/17/12

Estimated Percentage of Current Fall Foliage:

Durango – 5% (40% oakbrush)
Purgatory – 15%
Silverton – 80% aspens
Pagosa – 15%
Dolores/Rico – 25% (60% oakbrush)
Mancos – 15%

Areas with Greatest Amount of Color / Recommended Viewing Areas:

Silverton should be the best place to see color this week, and it is changing fast.
Molas Pass and Red Mountain Pass are lagging behind a bit, but getting good this week.
Estimated Peak Viewing Period:
Highest country, this weekend will be good but may peak this week sometime.
Other passes/ high elevation aspen groves, currently have some good color.

Viewing Suggestions / Tips:
Plan on driving a bit to find the best spots, but Silverton is the highest percentage location reported.
Trees That Are Currently Turning Color: Aspens, grasses and low scrub oak.

For More Information on Fall Colors Please Contact: San Juan Public Lands Center, Durango (970) 247-4874

Related articles

• San Juan National Forest Fall Color Report 9/14/12 (naturalhistorywanderings.com)
• San Juan National Forest Fall Color Report 9/11/12 (naturalhistorywanderings.com)