I was seeing some fall color photos on the internet, but really didn't know how far along the color was in my area. The only way to find out is to go out and take a look. It was a spur of the moment decision (my favorite kind) to head toward Lake City. However, along the way, I changed plans to a shorter destination, since it was already mid-morning and I felt a full day would be required to see everything I had in mind around Lake City. Another impulsive decision and I turned onto Cimarron Road toward Silver Jack Reservoir and Owl Creek Pass. This route has provided good color in the past.
Early on, there were some large ranches and rolling hills, with small Gambel oaks and views of the distant mountains and the aspens that grow mostly at higher elevations. Aspens provide most of our fall color, with yellow, gold and orange leaves. Gambel oaks, serviceberry and other small bushes produce a rusty shade of red. We don't have much of the bright red leaves like the sugar maples back East.
The Cimarron River flows down the mountain, furnishing water for the irrigation canals that make ranching possible here. As I get a little higher, more aspens can be seen near the road. While the colors aren't quite at "peak", there is plenty to be found.
This ranch pond is mostly covered with algae, but gives me a small reflection.
This patch of trees has a wide range of color.
Entering the National Forest, lots of colorful trees line the roadway.
The Beaver Lake Campground was surrounded by aspens with good color.
Back on the road, heading toward Silver Jack Reservoir.
I could see from the road the reservoir is seriously low due to the drought experienced all year. You can see one of the two branches of the Cimarron River that flow into the lake.
Starting up Owl Creek Pass Road, more dramatic formations appear on the mountains.
On the descent from Owl Creek Pass into Ridgway, there is very little color, but the formations are always interesting.
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