I just ran back-to-back San Juans Fall Color Tours and I’m still buzzing over how magical both weeks were. Each group experienced a unique version of Colorado autumn—and I love that even though the route was somewhat similar, nature surprised us with fresh views, weather, and light.
Week 1: Sept 25 – A Glow on the Million Dollar Highway
We hit the road Thursday afternoon, heading up the Million Dollar Highway toward what is called “the loneliest cabin of the San Juans.” There, the alpenglow popped brilliantly across the peaks, turning rock faces golden. That night we capped off the day with Milky Way reflections over Crystal Lake.
On Day 2, we boarded the Durango & Silverton Steam Train, riding between canyons and glimpsing color along the Animas River. The train always gives such a different perspective—a sense of motion through the autumn.
Day 3 was spectacular. Sunrise broke over the Ophir Needles, Sunshine Mountain, and Wilson Peak—all bathed in warm light. We then ventured into Telluride for a ride on the gondola, scouted new viewpoints, and drove around Wilson Peak for moody shots. After a 3-hour editing class, we wrapped up the day at Owl Creek Pass for sunset—even though the colors were subtle, the atmosphere and camaraderie made it special.
On the final morning, we watched sunrays strike yellow aspens against the Red Mountains, reflected in what remained of the drained lake at Crystal Lake. It was a serene, painterly end to the first tour.
Week 2: Repeating the Magic – With Rain, Snow & Moonlight
Just a few days later, Tour #2 began. We repeated our drive up the Million Dollar Highway, arriving once again at the lonely cabin for sunset—this time with fresh color and crisp air.
Day 2 brought a repeat train ride—but unlike week 1, we were treated to rains and several rainbows arching over the canyon walls. Those moments where seasons collide—rainbows over golden aspen, are pure magic.
Day 3 dawned misty; the sunrise was mostly hidden by weather. But we adapted. We shot snow-capped mountains from the Telluride overlook, took the gondola again, and braved mud and slush around Wilson Peak en route to our editing session. For sunset, we returned to Owl Creek Pass but with a twist: the moon rose behind the mountains as the sun set, casting alpenglow over Chimney Rock.
On our final morning we joined other photographers at Dallas Divide, where glowing aspens and scrub oaks lit up before breakfast. It was a grand, colorful finale—the perfect way to send off both groups.
If you’re dreaming of capturing golden aspens, dramatic skyscapes, and mountain reflections, I invite you to join me next fall. I’m already working on next year’s tours—stay tuned.
