I have a friend flying in on Friday and the plan is/was to hit the San Juans for color. I know that lots of wind is bad news for the leaves but what other effects might the storm have on the color? A dusting on color could be awesome but this doesn't sound like a dusting. Thoughts?
Yeah, I was excited for this storm - but now I'm a little worried. Calling for possibly 3-6" of heavy wet snow above 8000 ft as well as temps down in the low 20s, upper teens.
I haven't had a chance to get out this year, and this could bring a quick end to fall in the high country. Several years ago (I think?) there was a storm like this that hit right before the peak of color. I'm hoping this isn't going to pretty much kill the color, and cause the leaves to drop - maybe a veteran of that year can share what they ran into.
I also remember talk of a lot of downed trees on the county roads, so be careful out there. Might be a good idea to carry a saw, and hope that no monsters fall in your path!
Posted by Joshua Hardin on October 3, 2011 at 8:27 PM
Given that the majority of the leaves in the San Juan trees have yet to even turn color yet they might weather the coming storm surprisingly better this year than they would have in the last few, even with some moderate wind. I experienced a similar storm while I was in the Ouray area in 2005; the snowstorm lasted about 24 hours but the next day after it cleared was pretty glorious for photos. Another similar storm happened through Colorado in 2006 with some great photo opportunities in the few days afterwards too. I'd say don't get discouraged yet, but as Michael alluded to, also be aware and careful of the conditions while traveling.
I'll be there too. Traveling up from Phoenix on Friday. I am not too worried about it yet, the snow is supposed to be wet and the ground will still be warm. I am planning on camping on Friday and Saturday and I was hoping it wouldn't be ridiculously cold or wet...
I'm heading over late wednesday night from Denver in hopes of being in the Silverjack area for sunrise. 3-6 inches of snow might make for some interesting comps. I think it might be a good idea to throw in the chainsaw, tow chain and shovel just in case. wet snow + warm ground = mud.
3-6 inches?? hahaha. at 8000 feet, yes, but if im not mistaken Owl Creek is at 10K ft. Hope you have a snowmobile. The San Juans above 11K ft are going to be hit HARD by this storm--like get out the yardstick. That said, i would certainly be there if i didnt have to work--nothing beats the first big snow, even if all the trees are going to blow over on you!
It should be manageable to the north, but if you stick with the 'Juans, make sure you have your survival kit handy.
Posted by David Kingham on October 4, 2011 at 9:23 AM
Wow, this could be interesting! My plan was to head down tomorrow, then go back on some lonely roads I found last year, but boy, nee to re-assess that thought! this might be the first fall trip that I take my snowshoes on, that's for sure! At least we can be promised some drama!
Three or four years ago I flew out there from Virginia based on a similar forecast and was rewarded with two cloudy tough days and one that was as spectacular a set of conditions and beauty as I have ever seen. I can't do it this year but am hoping it works this way for you guys!
Posted by Ken Wyatt on October 4, 2011 at 11:24 PM
Hi All,
Just completed our annual photo tour through the San Juans and so far, it's just been afternoon rains into some evenings. The mornings have been nice - partly cloudy to overcast - perfect for forest photography. This morning, it clouded over the Sneffels Range and snowed very lightly at approx 11k and above. The rest of the day was rainy with snow only on the very highest peaks. The roads were wet and the colors were awesome! We traveled the length of Last Dollar Road into Teluride and it rained the whole way. The road was a bit muddy and slick in portions and most of the route was done in 2WD, switching to 4WD in the steeper parts near the south end. There was beautiful layers of clouds and ground fog mixed in with the aspen groves - beautiful conditions. There are still large green patches mixed in with all other shades of color. Most areas are near peak.
Cheers, Ken
Posted by Scott Bideau on October 6, 2011 at 10:54 AM
I was going to try and head out tonight for Aspen -> CB -> Ridgway....but the winds look fierce on this storm. Will there be any leaves left? Anyone who is down there have any direct experience to report?
Posted by Scott Bideau on October 6, 2011 at 11:04 AM
I was going to try and head out tonight for Aspen -> CB -> Ridgway....but the winds look fierce on this storm. Will there be any leaves left? Anyone who is down there have any direct experience to report?
Discussion
11 repliesThanks, Josh
NWS Statement
I haven't had a chance to get out this year, and this could bring a quick end to fall in the high country. Several years ago (I think?) there was a storm like this that hit right before the peak of color. I'm hoping this isn't going to pretty much kill the color, and cause the leaves to drop - maybe a veteran of that year can share what they ran into.
I also remember talk of a lot of downed trees on the county roads, so be careful out there. Might be a good idea to carry a saw, and hope that no monsters fall in your path!
It should be manageable to the north, but if you stick with the 'Juans, make sure you have your survival kit handy.
Everyone be safe!!
Just completed our annual photo tour through the San Juans and so far, it's just been afternoon rains into some evenings. The mornings have been nice - partly cloudy to overcast - perfect for forest photography. This morning, it clouded over the Sneffels Range and snowed very lightly at approx 11k and above. The rest of the day was rainy with snow only on the very highest peaks. The roads were wet and the colors were awesome! We traveled the length of Last Dollar Road into Teluride and it rained the whole way. The road was a bit muddy and slick in portions and most of the route was done in 2WD, switching to 4WD in the steeper parts near the south end. There was beautiful layers of clouds and ground fog mixed in with the aspen groves - beautiful conditions. There are still large green patches mixed in with all other shades of color. Most areas are near peak.
Cheers, Ken