It's that time of year when we trade our flip-flops for cozy sweaters and the landscape around Durango transforms into a stunning tapestry of reds and golds. So, grab your pumpkin spice latte (or your favorite fall drink) and join us as we embark on a journey through the absolute must-do fall activities in Durango and the surrounding areas. 🍂
1. Ride the Famous Telluride Gondola
Picture this: You're cruising along scenic highways, and around every bend, you're greeted with breathtaking vistas. That's what you get on your drive to Telluride, a charming mountain town that turns into an autumn paradise this time of year. But the real kicker? The free gondola ride that gives you a bird's-eye view of all that natural beauty. It's like stepping into a postcard!
📍Telluride & Mountain Village, CO
🔗 More info here
2. Drive the Million Dollar Highway to Ouray
This one's a bit of a road-tripper's dream come true. The Million Dollar Highway is legendary for its twists, turns, and heart-stopping views as it climbs over three of Colorado’s tallest passes: Coal Bank Pass (10,640 ft /3,240 m); Molas Pass (10,970 ft /3,340 m) and Red Mountain Pass (11,018 ft /3,358 m).
You'll want to pull over every few minutes to snap photos of the jaw-dropping scenery. And once you reach Ouray, you'll wonder why you didn't do this sooner.
Note: The Million Dollar Highway is touted as one of America’s most beautiful roads, but also one of the most dangerous! We highly recommend checking the weather on the pass before hitting the road to avoid rainy or snowy conditions.
📍 Million Dollar Highway, US 550 between Ouray, CO and Silverton, CO
3. Plan a Picture-Perfect Picnic Hike at Spud Lake
Ready for a little hiking adventure? Spud Lake Trail is your kid-friendly, dog-friendly, 3-mile fall foliage fix. It's like stepping into a golden wonderland. The vibrant leaves crunching underfoot and the crisp fall air are simply invigorating. You'll feel like you're in a fairytale. Once you reach Spud Lake the view will guarantee that you’ll want to stay forever… pack a picnic so you have an excuse to stay longer and you’ll thank yourself later!
📍San Juan National Forest
🔗 Trailhead information here
4. Hike Castle Rock Trail
If you're looking for an easygoing family hike with a big payoff, Castle Rock Trail is your ticket. The fall colors here are as inviting as a warm hug from your grandma. This 5.3-mile out-and-back trail will bring you to the Castle Rock Summit for a spectacular view… perfect for a quick selfie or family photo!
📍San Juan National Forest
🔗 Trailhead information here
5. Take a Dip in Pagosa's Natural Hot Springs
Now, let's get to the good stuff - hot springs! After a day of adventuring, you deserve a soak. The Sheep Springs Hot Springs are the perfect reward in the middle of a 2.8 mile out-and-back trail. The springs themselves are a bit more shallow depending on the time of year, perfect for kiddo-friendly soaking time!
📍Pagosa Springs
🔗 Trailhead information here
6. Visit Foxfire Farms Winery for Live Music
Especially on a Friday night at Foxfire Winery, you're in for a treat! Live music? Check. Local wine? Check. And the atmosphere? Magical, of course. But hurry, this one's only until September!
📍 Ignacio, CO
🔗 More info here
7. Explore Jackalope Acres Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch
Who's up for some family fun? Jackalope Acres is calling your name. Navigate a 10-acre corn maze, pick out the plumpest pumpkin, take a hayride, shoot a potato cannon (I KNOW, right?!) and make memories that'll last a lifetime.
📍 Ignacio, CO
🔗 More info here
8. Enjoy a Farm Fresh Dinner at James Ranch
Farm-to-table dining never tasted so good. James Ranch is a foodie's dream, especially in the fall when they're serving up dishes that perfectly capture the season's flavors. Trust us; you won't leave hungry.
Bonus Perks: Pet the farm’s two goats as you walk in, or enjoy special events hosted on the terrace!
📍US Highway 550, Durango, CO
🔗 More info here
9. Visit Mesa Verde and Hovenweep National Monument
Get a stamp in your National Parks Passport AND delve into history? Yes, please. Mesa Verde and Hovenweep National Monument are steeped in stories of the past. The autumn ambiance adds an extra layer of enchantment to these archaeological wonders.
📍Mesa Verde, CO
🔗 More info here
10. Stroll Down 2nd & 3rd Ave Downtown Durango
Wrap up your adventure with a leisurely stroll down 2nd and 3rd Ave, guaranteed to be your favorite low-maintenance fall activity in Durango. The colorful leaves create the perfect backdrop for exploring unique shops and treating yourself to a yummy meal on the patio at Lola's Place. Choose from a diverse cohort of food trucks or a warming coffee at Taste - there’s something for everyone at Lola’s!
📍725 E 2nd Ave, Durango, CO
🔗 More info here
So, there you have it! With vibrant foliage, charming towns, and an array of outdoor and cultural activities, autumn in the Four Corners is a season worth savoring. Whether you're chasing jaw-dropping vistas, soaking in hot springs, sipping wine, or exploring historical treasures, fall in Durango promises playful and grounded memories that'll warm your heart. Grab your sweater and let the adventure begin!🍁🍂
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