Natural History Wanderings

San Juan National Forest reports

Estimated Percentage of Current Fall Foliage:
Durango to Purgatory – 75%
Molas Pass – 90%
Silverton/Red Mtn Pass – 85%-0%
Pagosa – 35%
Dolores to Lizard Head Pass – 75%
Mancos/La Platas – 60%
Ouray to Telluride – 75%

Areas with Greatest Amount of Color / Recommended Viewing Areas: Purgatory to Coalbank.  Telluride, Ridgeway to Rico. Many areas show a large variation within a small distance this year.  Green to yellow to gone on the same hillside.

Estimated Peak Viewing Period: Should still be some great areas thru the coming weekend.

Viewing Suggestions / Tips: Anything over about 50% should be good for photography.  This can vary even across small areas.If you’re driving slow and taking pictures, pull over and let the thru traffic pass. Weather should be clear again until mid-week.

Trees That Are Currently Turning Color: Aspen and Oak brush are best right now. Some choke cherry, service berry, and Box Elder trees.

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