The Dallas Divide, just west of Ridgeway, Colorado, is one of the premier locations to photograph fall colors in Colorado. There are wonderful views from the viewpoint on CO-62, though it can be very crowded during peak fall colors. For a more intimate view, it is worthwhile to head south, away from paved roads and the crowd. Aside from the more famous Last Dollar Road, a couple of other dirt roads in the area offer great views, as well as the opportunity to hike, mountain bike, or ride horses along the way.
West Dallas Road (County Road 9) follows West Fork Dallas Creek, and it can be accessed from CO-62. The road goes through Double RL ranch, a 17,000-acre ranch owned by a famous fashion designer (note that land on both sides of the road is private). After that you can make your way through aspen groves, with great views of the north side of the Sneffels Range, including Mount Sneffels, Dallas Peak, Mears Peak, and more.
About 6 miles from CO-62 the road turns into a single lane, doubletrack trail where a high clearance vehicle is highly recommended. There are a couple of places to park where some people continue on foot or mountain bike. Half a mile farther you can access the Dallas Trail, and another half a mile later the road crosses the creek; here you'll find a wonderful view of the Sneffels Range over hillsides covered with golden aspen.
Alternatively, East Dallas Road (CO 7) is just a mile and a half east on CO-62. It follows East Fork Dallas Creek, and it offers access to the trailhead for Blue Lakes and Mount Sneffels as well as the Blue Lake Hut, which is available for overnight stays in the summer and winter.
Comments
Sign In and share them.