Have you ever stood in a stand of aspens in the middle of fall, surrounded by their bright burst of yellow? If not, it’s time you head to Durango to enjoy the best Colorado fall colors. One of the best ways to enjoy fall in Colorado is from above the trees, and the scenic chairlift rides at Purgatory Ski Area deliver that experience in full color. As the aspens turn bright gold and the San Juan Mountains glow in rich autumn hues, a ride up the mountain offers panoramic views that feel almost unreal.
Before snow blankets the slopes and leads us into another exciting ski season, Purgatory Ski Area transforms into a fall playground with chairlift rides, mountain biking, alpine slides, hiking trails, and more. Whether you’re catching a crisp morning ride or soaking in the late afternoon glow, chairlift rides at Purgatory offer a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular shows. This is just one of the many things to do in Durango CO during the fall season.
A weekend getaway can be filled with scenic drives, fly fishing along the Animas River, brewery hopping downtown, or riding the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through canyons lined with fiery foliage. Outdoor lovers can explore nearby hikes in the San Juan National Forest for more sweeping views, and photographers will find endless inspiration. With so many things to do, Durango is one of the best places to see fall colors in Colorado.
After a day spent in the mountains, retreat to our quiet paradise, just outside the buzz of town, where you’ll be surrounded by the colorful beauty of the San Juan Mountains. Antlers on the Creek Bed and Breakfast in Durango offers a relaxed and luxurious place to stay. With gourmet breakfasts, cozy rooms, and easy access to both Durango and the Purgatory Ski Resort, it’s a perfect home base for leaf peepers and outdoor adventurers alike. Book your stay today!
Fall at Purgatory Ski Area in Durango
The scenic chairlift rides at Purgatory Ski Area are one of the highlights of fall in Colorado. The chairlift rides operate daily throughout the summer, and then on weekends only from mid-August through early October, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery at Purgatory Mountain. These rides take visitors up the mountain just as the fall colors reach their peak. You’ll board the high-speed Purgatory Express, which carries you from the base area to the top of the mountain, offering sweeping views of the Animas River Valley and the San Juan Mountains. The ride is perfect for all ages and offers a relaxed way to soak in the fall colors without breaking a sweat.
Whether you live in the area and are just looking for fun things to do or are visiting to soak in as much of Colorado in the fall as possible, the chairlift rides at Purgatory Ski Area promise an unforgettable afternoon. As you reach the top of Purgatory Ski Area, you’ll be rewarded with an expansive view that stretches across the rugged peaks of the San Juan Mountains and beyond. The scenery is a mix of golds, oranges, and reds as the aspen trees change color, contrasting against deep green evergreens and craggy ridgelines. On clear days, you can see for miles across southwestern Colorado.Â
The chairlift rides typically run on weekends from late morning to mid-afternoon, but exact hours can vary depending on weather and staffing, so it’s best to check with Purgatory Ski Resort ahead of time. Tickets are available online or at the base area and are often bundled with other fall activities at Purgatory Mountain Resort.
Additional Activities at Purgatory Ski Resort:Â
- Mountain biking on lift-access trails is one of the most popular things to do at Purgatory Ski Area during the summer and fall. The Purgatory Bike Park trails are closed for 2025 to accommodate planned improvements, but they will reopen and be better than ever in 2026.
- Zip down the Alpine slide for a fun downhill experience at Purgatory Ski Area.Â
- Ride the Mountain Coaster for thrill seekers and great views of Purgatory Ski Area.
- If you’re up for some adventure, head out on one of the many scenic hiking trails with trailheads from the base area of Purgatory Ski Resort.Â
- Rent a paddleboard, canoe, or kayak from Durango Board and Boat, and get out on the water at Twilight Lake.Â
- If you really want to experience the scenic and colorful backcountry of the San Juan Mountains, consider renting an ATV, RZR, UTV, or jeep from Colorado Outback Adventures. They also offer fun and guided jeep tours if you’d rather let someone else do the driving.Â
Of course, it’s never too early to pick up this year’s season pass for Purgatory Ski Resort, which offers some of the best downhill skiing and snowboarding in Colorado!
More Ways to Enjoy Colorado Fall Colors
Fall in Colorado is legendary, and Durango delivers some of the most striking autumn scenery in the state. The mix of elevation, mountain terrain, and dense aspen groves creates a canvas of brilliant gold, fiery orange, and deep red each September and October. Cool nights and sunny days bring out vibrant Colorado fall colors, and the peaks of the San Juan Mountains make for a stunning backdrop.
You don’t need to plan big adventures to enjoy these fall colors in Durango, either. You’re just as likely to see these gorgeous hues strolling through town as you are hiking a rugged trail or riding through the wilderness. The contrast between the golden aspens and the rocky mountain ridges is unforgettable, making this corner of the state one of the best places to see fall colors in Colorado.
Top Ways to Enjoy Colorado Fall Colors in Durango:
- The scenic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is the ultimate destination for Colorado fall colors. This historic steam train travels through remote mountain canyons, dressed in fall colors, as it snakes along the Animas River, offering some of the most dramatic views of the San Juan Mountains in the fall.
- The Million Dollar Highway (U.S. 550) is one of the most famous scenic drives in the country. The stretch between Durango and Ouray winds through mountain passes lined with glowing aspen forests and towering cliffs.Â
- Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through Colorado fall colors on the Animas River Trail. This paved path runs through the heart of Durango, CO. This trail offers easy access to colorful views along the river, with trees turning vibrant shades along the banks.Â
- Just north of Purgatory Ski Area, you’ll find Haviland Lake Recreation Area, surrounded by dense forests and mountain peaks. It’s a peaceful place for fishing and kayaking, offering a reflection of fall colors on the water that’s picture-perfect. There are also great hiking trails here.Â
- Enjoy guided horseback tours through the wilderness areas surrounding Purgatory Ski Resort. It’s a unique way to explore backcountry areas filled with changing aspens.Â
- The Hermosa Creek Trail is a local favorite for hikers and mountain bikers. This trail winds through aspen groves and high alpine meadows and is a great place to catch long-range views over the valley.
- Don’t overlook the charm of fall right in downtown Durango. Tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and mountain views make the downtown area especially beautiful this time of year. Shop, sip, and stroll your way through the best Colorado fall colors.Â
The greater Durango area gives you endless ways to celebrate fall, and when you’re done for the day, you can sink into comfort and let us take care of you at our top-rated Durango Bed and Breakfast. Book your fall getaway to Colorado today!
