Several years ago, the San Juan Skyway, a 232-mile loop that circles the area, was declared one of America's most beautiful roads as part of the National Forest Service Scenic Byways program. My suggested plan for enjoying the best colours is to travel by car.
Some people circle the skyway in six hours without stopping.
Warm daytime temperatures and cool nights trigger the change in colours, while the intensity depends largely on the moisture content in the trees. If you start early one morning from Durango, you're likely to see the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The popular steam train provides visual pleasures such as river-carved gorges, mountain summits, rocks and trees. The Animas River roars below the rail bed and the San Juan National Forest crowds the track on both sides. Bring extra film.