Santa Fe's Stunning Fall Foliage: Explore the Golden City Different in Autumn
With daily sunshine under bright blue skies and dramatic nightly sunsets, Santa Fe summers are unbeatable. As end-of-season beauties like tall, yellow native sunflowers bloom and sway in the breeze, summer gracefully yields to fall. This transition transforms hillsides and valleys into a glorious palette of autumn shades that rival our legendary evening colors.
Fall Foliage: A Fantasia of Vibrant Colors
October arrives in full golden glory as aspen trees display their glowing fall colors, usually through the middle of the month. (Photo Courtesy: CNN)
Santa Fe's leaf-peepers are in for a treat. Our native trees burst into distinctive shades of crimson, while aspen-covered mountaintops glow in golden hues. A bit of pre-hike research reveals trails suited to your skill level and scenic preferences. The Santa Fe National Forest's Aspen Vista trail offers a moderately challenging 4-mile trek up a well-marked road to an 11,000-foot summit with breathtaking 360-degree views. Hike independently or join a guided tour with Outspire or Santa Fe Mountain Adventures for enriching insights into botany, geology, and history. Regardless, wear sturdy shoes, pack water, and charge your camera—the panoramic scenery demands frequent photo stops.
Drive to Santa Fe Ski Basin for Unparalleled Scenic Views
The drive to Santa Fe Ski Basin reveals endless breathtaking vistas around every curve. The basin hosts family-friendly fall events, including a blowout sale at the Ski Shop with beanbag tosses and kids' treasure hunts. Enjoy weekend vibes at the Beer Garden with live music, craft brews, and stunning mountain backdrops.
At the summit, ride the Ski Santa Fe Super Quad Lift for a bird's-eye panorama. Operating through October 14, it offers a fresh, elevated perspective on the autumn landscape.
Capture Santa Fe Memories at Canyon Road Paint Out
Marshall Noice of Waxlander Gallery gets his teeth into the art experience on Canyon Road! (Photo Courtesy: visitcanyonroad.com)
Join the Canyon Road Paint-Out on October 20-21, featuring over 150 artists creating en plein air along this historic street. Pick up a fresh artwork that captures Santa Fe's warmth for winter days. Enjoy demonstrations, gallery openings, musical performances, refreshments, and a festival parade by Santa Fe Public Schools Music Education on Saturday afternoon.
Fall is an ideal time to visit Santa Fe, packed with unmissable experiences. Our golden magic will enchant you. Order the 2018 Santa Fe Travel Guide or browse our deals and specials to plan your trip.
