SAN LUIS VALLEY – With temperatures cooling and the feel of autumn in the air, now is the time to plan for outings in the beautiful San Juan Mountains to capture the amazing fall colors that are set to peak by the end of September, beginning of October.
The San Luis Valley is the perfect place to be when Colorado changes into its fall attire in the next several weeks. Whether out hiking, fishing, or taking a leisurely drive, these are some of the best places to see the Aspen trees change from brilliant green to glorious shades of gold, orange, and red.
Platoro Lake is a gorgeous high mountain lake nestled in the San Juan Mountains just a short walk from the main trailhead. Take Park Creek Road (Forest Service Road 380) toward Summitville. Take the turn to Ellwood Pass which will take you into Platoro. On the way down the pass, you will drive through canopies of Aspen and have incredible views in all directions. There is a Lodge in Platoro that serves delicious burgers, among other things. The trip is around 40 miles one way and should take around two hours.
Travelers can also head toward the historic town of Lake City to experience the Silver Thread Historic Scenic Byway. Take the Silver Thread Highway (149) from South Fork to Lake City for spectacular views of mountains and a patchwork of color. Be sure to stop at North Clear Creek Falls. Look for bear prints in the mud of North Clear Creek.
Pool Table and Wheeler Geologic Area is a beautiful drive in the La Garita Mountains just before Creede. Take the Silver Thread Highway (149) toward Creede. Just past Cottonwood Cove, there will be a sign that says, “Pool Table”. It is Forest Service Road 600 and is 14 miles. Travelers may drive a two-wheel drive vehicle to Hanson’s Mill then take the hiking trail up 6.5 miles to the geologic area. After the mill you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle. Drive on top of the mesa to be surrounded by golden Aspen.
Beaver Creek Road is a short distance from South Fork and a great place to view fall colors. Take Highway 160 west 3 miles to Beaver Creek Reservoir Road. This is Forest Service Road 360. The first 5-7 miles are through aspen forest. You will pass through the pines then the spruce and fir for great views of the surrounding mountains.
Willow Creek and Del Norte Peak are 17 miles south of South Fork near the town of Del Norte. Head two miles east of town on Highway 160 to Gerrard Road. This is Forest Service Road 350 also known as Willow Creek Road. You can follow it south up to the junction of road 345 where you will turn back to the northeast then meander back to the northwest around Del Norte Peak for beautiful views of the mountain.
Carnero Creek Road is a great place to see the changing of the seasons while enjoying a slice of history just north of Del Norte and Monte Vista. This area is known for its off-grid fishing along Carnero Creek so grab those fishing poles and head out to enjoy a day of fall fishing and changing colors. From U.S. Highway 285, take the La Garita turnoff (County Road G) and follow the paved road 6.0 miles west where the road forks. Take the right fork, the gravel surface Carnero Creek Road (Forest Road 690/County Road 41G) 10.0 miles northwest to Forest Road 675.
No matter which way travelers head, always prepare for adverse weather, plan for a day in the mountains and share travel plans with family and friends. Come on out and enjoy the beautiful backcountry and all it has to offer!
