Peak fall colors are here for roughly two weeks — aim for the last week of September or the first week of October. Sometimes a storm knocks the leaves down early; sometimes they hang on like they don't want summer to end.

Driving

Last Dollar Road

The classic Telluride fall drive — a winding dirt road that connects Ridgway to Telluride. Iconic views of Wilson Peak. A 4WD vehicle helps, but you can make it in most cars if it's dry.

Dallas Divide

Drive the highway to Ridgway and you'll go over Dallas Divide. Stop at the top to check out Ralph Lauren's ranch, including his classic old-school fence that runs into the Sneffels Range.

Red Mountain Pass

For a bigger highway adventure, drive over Red Mountain Pass. The road is narrow and rocky, but the reward is sweeping views of reds, yellows, and oranges spilling across the San Juans. Drop into Silverton on the other side.

Biking

Valley Floor Trail

An easy, flat ride from town with the San Miguel River beside you. The cottonwoods are joining the aspens in turning gold, doubling the show. Look for elk.

Galloping Goose Trail

Classic fall trail down valley, leaving from Lawson Hill and heading into Ilium. Stay alongside the San Miguel before turning off to extend the ride. Great for gravel bikes and beginning mountain bikers.

Prospect Trail

For a tougher ride on the ski mountain, climb into Mountain Village and take Prospect Trail. The singletrack cuts through thick aspen stands before breaking out into wide-open meadows with panoramic color.

Hiking

Sneffels Highline Loop

The ultimate fall hike. The Sneffels Highline Loop climbs through glowing aspen forests before opening up to alpine basins and 13,000-foot peaks dusted with early snow. It's long (13 miles) but unforgettable. Bring water and snacks and leave early.

Hope Lake

A moderate hike near Trout Lake — short but with a real climb. The trail winds through aspen groves before topping out at Hope Lake, a high alpine lake framed by yellow leaves.

Bear Creek Falls

Right from town, hike into Bear Creek Canyon, where aspens line the trail and cliffs rise dramatically overhead. End at the waterfall (~3 miles roundtrip).