Fall in Colorado: A Most Colorful Time of Year

View from My Deck: First Day of Fall

Heading Out on My Walk

Along the Galloping Goose

Happy fall to all!

I am so excited about the beauty that surrounds me right now–the colors are really going off. As usual, it came upon us very fast and I see a change in the foliage every day. We’ve been spoiled with summertime temperatures the past week so in some ways, fall has taken us by surprise. At least that’s the case for me.

Good news is that according to the forecast, glorious Indian summer weather will continue to light up the leaves and our spirits for the upcoming ten days or so as we inch toward peak viewing times. (In truth, it’s typically gorgeous around here in southwest Colorado through mid October, especially if the mountains are frosted with fresh fallen snow.)

Priest Lake

The Last of the Butterflies

This year I’ve noticed a gorgeous palette of orange in addition to an array of yellow and gold from our aspens. The grasses and scrub oaks punctuate our great Western landscapes with a cornucopia of reds, russets and rich browns. And, of course, it’s fun to look up at our awe-inspiring peaks to see the progression of color change from the stands of trees above to those that haven’t yet turned below.

Indeed, this is a most magical time of year. I hope you’ll enjoy the photos (from my iPhone 5) in this post, which I took from this morning’s walk around the neighborhood just outside of Telluride, Colorado.

Whatever your plans, do carve out lots of outdoors time to soak up the golden light and embrace the harvest colors of autumn these next few weeks. It’s good for the soul and it’s as heartwarming as a pumpkin latte on a cool, crisp September morning.

Nice Campsite

Remember, too, that the gondola in Telluride is free and it offers one of the best foliage sight-seeing tours in the country. Read Fall in Telluride:  Riding the Gondola to find out more.

Also the Telluride Photo Festival is taking place this year October 1-4. Read what I wrote about it and see more beautiful photos of fall in Colorado at The Gold Season in Colorado:  A Festive Time for Professional and Amateur Photographers.