Fall in Mesa Verde Country

Fall in southwest Colorado is beautiful, and autumn is arguably one of the best times to visit Mesa Verde Country. It’s an area renowned for its rich culture, history, agritourism, adventure, and more. Autumn hues blanket the landscape and the crisp air is just right for outdoor recreation – no scorching heat or biting cold!

Scenic Drives

Mt. Sneffels along the San Juan Skyway | Photo by CampPhoto, Getty Images

Two scenic byways offer a beautiful glimpse at the glow of fall. The San Juan Skyway is Colorado’s first National Forest Scenic Byway and has been dubbed “The Most Beautiful Drive in America. In Mesa Verde Country, the stretch of the San Juan Skyway from Dolores to Rico is particularly beautiful during the fall.

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument Visitor Center & Museum | Photo by Kassia Vinsel

The Trail of the Ancients, the only National Scenic Byway dedicated to archaeology, takes you on a journey from the past to the future and from adventure to understanding. In autumn, the route becomes especially scenic as fall colors enhance the landscape. Attractions along the Scenic Byway include Mesa Verde National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, Crow Canyon Archaeological Center, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, and others. This drive provides ample opportunities to learn about Mesa Verde Country’s rich history while enjoying the beauty of the fall season.

Outdoor Adventures

Photo by Emily Sierra Photography

From scenic hikes and thrilling bike rides to peaceful fishing spots, Mesa Verde Country offers a wealth of outdoor activities set against a backdrop of stunning fall colors.

Geyser Spring Trail and Box Canyon Trail near Dolores are top picks for fall hikes. These trails offer moderately challenging hikes through colorful fall foliage with impressive views. Fall brings striking color changes to the Dolores River area, best experienced via the Dolores River Trail and McPhee Overlook Trail. Visitors can hike these trails or enjoy paddling or fishing the river, surrounded by vibrant fall scenery.

For those looking to venture off the beaten path, Mancos State Park showcases excellent views of the La Plata Mountains’ west side. The park’s mix of gambel oak and aspens creates a stunning autumn display, with the possibility of seeing snow-capped peaks contrasting with fall colors.

Mountain bikers will encounter everything from slick rock to old-growth forest. But one thing that’s not here? The crowds! Must-ride trails include Sand Canyon Trail in Canyons of the Ancients National Monument (the only place you can ride past ancient cliff dwellings!) and Phil’s World Trail System (a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails). Learn more and watch a video here.

Cider Sipping & Wine Tasting

Photo by Kassia Vinsel

The long growing season and abundance of orchards and vineyards means you’re never too far from a locally-sourced beverage in Mesa Verde Country. Apples grow particularly well, which is reflected by the variety of award-winning ciders here. What better way to celebrate autumn than with a nice glass of hard cider? In Mancos, Fenceline Cider focuses on growing wild and rare varieties of apples. In the fall, they host an impressive and delicious harvest dinner. Down the road in Dolores is EsoTerra Ciderworks, which taps into heritage, old-growth orchards to press into cider. More of a fan of wine? In Cortez, Sutcliffe Vineyards is turning out highly-rated barrels of French-oaked chardonnay and merlot varietals. 

Mesa Verde National Park

Fall is a lovely time to visit Mesa Verde National Park. The temperatures are a bit cooler (be sure to bring layers), the colors are changing, and the park is much quieter. It’s the perfect time to explore the cliff dwellings and enjoy the sweeping views in a more intimate and introspective way. Park Point, the highest point along the main road in the park, offers breathtaking views and features an abundance of oak brush, which turns vibrant colors in autumn. Ranger-led tours of the cliff dwellings are still available until October 22nd, and the Far View Lodge and the Morefield Campground are also usually open through mid-October.

Fall Events

Photo by Kassia Vinsel

Fall is also a time for community celebration, as the harvest season brings a sense of abundance and gratitude. The Dolores Harvest Festival exemplifies this spirit, bringing locals and visitors together to celebrate the season with local goods and produce, live music, hay rides, a car show, and more.

Adding an extra layer of excitement to the autumn season is the Kiwanis “Fall Into Gold” Treasure Hunt. This event combines the area’s stunning fall scenery with a thrilling adventure. Participants have the chance to explore the beautiful fall colors and delve into the fascinating history of southwest Colorado while searching for a double eagle gold coin with an estimated value of $2,240!

Mesa Verde Country offers a spectacular array of autumn experiences, from scenic drives to outdoor adventures amidst vibrant fall foliage. Visitors can indulge in local ciders and wines, explore the quieter atmosphere of Mesa Verde National Park, and join in community celebrations. With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and seasonal activities, Mesa Verde Country is an ideal destination for those seeking to fully embrace the magic of fall.

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