Fall leaf peepers in Southwest Colorado have another week or so until prime viewing, experts say.
According to the most recent Fall Leaves Report from the San Juan National Forest, Silverton is the only viewing spot above 5 percent fall foliage.
Aspens and some oaks are turning, the report notes.
Foliage at Silverton and Red Mountain Pass is currently at 15 percent changed. Mancos, Pagosa Springs and Molas Pass are at 5 percent; and stretches from Dolores to Rico, Durango to Purgatory are also at 5 percent.
Ann McDonald, of the Dolores Public Lands office, says that local viewers might find some color up at Lizardhead Pass, but it appears the end of the month will be the prime time for viewing changing leaves.
“Everything is pointing toward the last couple weeks of the month,” said McDonald. “The shrubbier oaks are showing a bit, but it doesn’t look too promising this week.”
This week’s San Juan National Forest report backs up McDonald’s assertions, saying its “getting better next weekend.” But if you can’t wait, forests at 11,000 feet will provide some color, the San Juan National Forest says.
