When we made plans for the fall, we assumed typical Colorado Plateau weather – Moderate temps during the day, cool nights, and generally pleasant hiking weather.
Alas, it has been a hot fall, with temperatures routinely in the high 80s or low 90s.
While undoubtedly doable, it is not my preferred condition for backpacking. Especially when I am mentally geared for fall, and not summer, weather.
I changed a planned packrafting trip back into “The Maze” and decided to go to the South San Juans, a place I have not visited in quite some time.
It is less busy than the San Juans north of Wolf Creek Pass and, which has a more remote feeling and less visitation. A telling fact is that the last confirmed Colorado grizzly killing occurred here back in 1979.
My trip took in near-peak fall color, some off-trail travel, and a memorable and perfect autumn weekend, enjoying the simple act of walking.
I had one day of camping near Cumbres Pass and then spent two nights in the mountains.
Other than a handful of people, I did not see any other people the first day until I found myself two hours from my truck.
The cross-country travel proved memorable and flowed well along the landscape. Old cairned routes, not on the map, and elk trails showed that the terrain often dictates the route rather intuitively.
And if the South San Juans does not have as many prominent peaks, the alpine and sub-alpine lakes make for some memorable scenery.
The last night, I saw a memorable light show at the edge of the meadow: my hot cider, a splash of rum, and some dark chocolate made for the perfect accompaniment.
I woke up the following morning and returned to the aspens, the warmer weather, and the fall color.
My last expansive view is one I had to myself a few miles before the trailhead.
Not long after, I saw the first people enjoying the day hiking, the fall color, and the prolonged summer days in October.
Rain and temperatures in the 50s are in store for this coming weekend. Fall is finally coming to the Colorado Plateau, and we can return to the canyons in full.
Fantastic area and I’ll never forget the first view into New Mexico looking south on the CDT. Going back to backpack and fly fish that area for a couple of days is on my bucket list.