As the warm days of summer fade away, the Durango, Colorado area transforms into a breathtaking landscape of golden aspens, crisp autumn air, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, an art lover, or you’re simply looking for a vibrant yet relaxing destination, fall is a magical time to visit Durango. Read on for some can’t-miss activities to add to your itinerary.
Leaf Peeping
With the changing colors of the aspen and cottonwood trees painting the mountainsides with shades of gold, orange, and red, Colorado is renowned for its stunning fall foliage. In the Durango and Pagosa Springs area, early to mid-October is the optimal time to view the fall colors.
With numerous trails surrounding Durango, hiking is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the beautiful autumn landscapes. Popular options for fall hikes include:
- Hermosa Creek Trail, a 20-mile trail that begins high in the San Juan Mountains and weaves alongside Hermosa Creek and through groves of aspen trees.
- Animas Mountain Trail, which begins on Fourth Avenue in Durango and heads through a forest and up a mountain. While the six-mile hike is moderately challenging, hikers are rewarded with gorgeous views of the fall foliage in the valley below.
- Spud Lake Trail, an easy two-mile hike through aspen-filled forests to a beautiful lake—the perfect destination to relax and enjoy a picnic amongst the cool mountain air!
Another wonderful way to experience the area’s fall landscapes is with a ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which features a coal-fired, steam-powered train that has been in continuous operation since 1882. The historic locomotive carries passengers on scenic routes through the San Juan Mountains and along the Animas River—a journey that is particularly spectacular during the autumn months.
Durango Autumn Arts Festival
From September 21-22, 2024, the 30th Annual Durango Autumn Arts Festival will celebrate fine art and fine craft by makers from around the country. Ranked as one of the top festivals in the U.S. with an estimated 7,000 to 8,000 visitors each year, the festival is held on Second Avenue, adjacent to the Leland House. This beloved event, which is free and open to the public, is organized as a benefit by and for the Durango Arts Center, the region’s premier nonprofit arts organization serving Durango and the Four Corners.
Durango Arts Month
The Durango Autumn Arts Festival is not the only artistic highlight this season—the entire month of September is Durango Arts Month! Encompassing more than 160 events, including art classes, cultural experiences, live music, interactive demonstrations and more, this celebration showcases the exceptional artistic talent in Southwest Colorado, while further developing a vibrant arts culture in Durango for all.
One of the many features of Durango Arts Month is the Mural Bike Tour, taking place on Saturday, September 28 from 2-4 p.m. Led by the Durango Creative District, this guided tour will take participants on a journey through the history and inspiration behind some of Durango’s most iconic artworks. The tour will stop at several key murals along the way before concluding at Lola’s Place—our sister property—where participants can relax, savor a delicious meal or beverage, and enjoy a meet-and-greet with local mural artists.
Spoketober
Hosted by Visit Durango, the City of Durango, and other local organizations, Spoketober is a celebration of all things cycling that lasts for the entire month of October. With various events throughout Durango, Spoketober encompasses mountain biking, road biking, e-biking, gravel biking, BMXing, bike commuting, and everything in between. We are proud to host several events at Lola’s Place throughout the month with our partners at Pedal Durango:
- Join us as we close East Second Avenue for a block party on Sunday, Oct.13! Compete for prizes and bragging rights in Foot Down and Bunny Hop contests!
- Durango is home to decades of cycling champions. Don’t miss an opportunity to interact with some of our local Cycling Legends at our Meet and Greet on Friday Oct. 18!
- Invite a friend, dress to impress, and ride your bikes to Lola’s on Saturday, Oct 19 for a Homecoming Dinner and Dance Party with all your favorite ‘80s and ‘90s tunes!
With its stunning landscapes, rich arts-and-culture scene, and abundant outdoor activities, fall is an idyllic time to visit Durango. If you’re seeking a place to stay that allows you to live, work, and play like a local, come visit us at the Leland House! Conveniently located in the heart of Durango’s Second Avenue District, we combine historic charm, modern comfort, and a personalized, boutique hotel experience. Contact us today to learn more or book your stay!
