Leaf Peeping

Something about leaf peeping when there's a chill in the air and a warm cup of coffee in your hands... before I get all sentimental about the gorgeousness of Fall, let me give you some more ideas on how to round out your October.

It's Fall Y'all

Although the leaves haven't necessarily peaked in downtown Durango, it's peak season for the high country. How did I know that? Well for starters, we just made the drive from Durango to Ridgway and let me tell you, I couldn't take my eyes off of all the yellow; glad I had a driver who could keep their eyes on the road! However if you can't make that drive (it's a doosy), there are plenty of other places to find that Fall feeling. Might I suggest simply driving north to Purgatory Ski Resort? The resort itself may be closed, but you can still drive up to the parking lots and shops for gorgeous views, not to mention the drive itself is beautiful. While you're at it, stop in at the Nugget Bar for some food and bevies.

If you have the time, drive a bit further to Coal Bank or Molas Pass which are at peak color right now according to this very handy leaf-o-meter.

Want something more off the beaten path? Here are 10 spots for you to try; I'm plan to check out a few of these in the next couple of weeks, including Missionary Ridge which apparently has maples (think red and orange leaves.)

October Events

All Month: Durango's First Annual Spoketober kicks off October 3rd and includes multiple cycle-themed events throughout the month. The first event is a Meet & Greet with "cycling legends" at Mountain Bike Specialists.

October 14th - 16th: Durango Open Studio Tour. According to the website, "emerging and professional artists are “opening their doors'' all over Durango, Colorado to explore, discover and connect. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase local art, explore artist’s techniques, and view a range of art in each studio." As someone who's become quite fond of the local art scene, I'm really looking forward to this.

October 14th - 16th: The Animas Balloon Rally is back again for a full weekend of events. Catch the balloons downtown on Friday night or ascending from the valley Saturday morning. You can find the full schedule of events here.

October 14th and 15th: iAM Music Fest hosts their last two events of the season: a fashion show on Friday and a concert at the Durango Distillery downtown on Saturday with High Country Hustle headlining.

Saturdays in October, 9 am - noon: You have only 3 more opportunities to shop the best selection of local produce, goods and art at the Durango Farmers Market. Located in downtown Durango in the TBK parking lot, you can't miss it!

Pumpkin Patches: Falfa Pumpkin Patch and Jack-a-lope Acres will be open on select days as well as every Saturday and Sunday until Halloween.

For Halloween events, visit the last blog post here.