Natural History Wanderings

San Juan National Forest has the following fall color updates

Date: 9/26/14

Estimated Percentage of Current Fall Foliage:
Durango/Purgatory – 15% aspens, 50% oakbrush on Missionary
Molas Pass – 70%
Silverton/Red Mountain Pass – 95% aspens
Pagosa –10% aspens high, 30% cottonwoods along river 
Dolores/Rico – 30% 
Mancos – 20%

Areas with Greatest Amount of Color / Recommended Viewing Areas:
Silverton area early this weekend before it’s done.
Cold weather may change things more quickly early next week.

Estimated Peak Viewing Period:
High country this week should be getting good.  10-12,000 feet

The slightly lower areas should be next week.  Pagosa still to change.

Viewing Suggestions / Tips:
4WD in Silverton and the alpine loop. Lake City to Creede. Ouray.
Coalbank to Molas Pass.  Gold Run to Sharkstooth.

Trees That Are Currently Turning Color:
Aspens, some areas of oakbrush.

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