Thinking about waxing your skis? Think again. The green leaves giving way to deep reds and oranges can mean only one thing…Fall has fallen upon the Roaring Fork Valley. Before the snow begins to fall, take a trip out around town and get lost amongst the changing trees along Highway 133 from your base in Carbondale.

Fall Responsible Recreation Tips

• Hunting: Open season is just as much a recreational sport as it is a means for wildlife and environmental conservation. The White River National Forest and Sopris Ranger District offer some of the best big game hunting in Colorado during the late summer and autumn. Various rules and regulations are to be considered before heading out in hunt of game.
  • All hunters are required to carry a license, which requires the completion of an approved hunter or bow hunter education course sanctioned. Anyone born before January 1, 1949 is excluded from this education requirement, however they still must carry a license.) Licenses can be purchased from various retailers in Carbondale or at any Colorado Parks and Wildlife office, the nearest of which is in Glenwood Springs (88 Wildlife Way, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601)
  • Know the season: Archery hunting season typically runs from late August through late December. Muzzle-loading season runs from mid-September through late October. Deer and elk hunting season runs late October through January. Bear season runs in September. (Turkey hunting season runs in April and May, then again in September.)
  • Tags are limited depending on the season. Be sure to read through the 2023 Big Game Regulation Brochure. Over the counter tags can be purchased locally at the Roaring Fork Coop, where you can also pick up additional backcountry supplies,clothing, ammo, and provisions.
• Leaf Peeping: The Roaring Fork Valley’s trees begin showing off their colors in September, giving visitors stunning leaf photos and memorable hiking views. In spite of all of the natural beauty, don’t lose sight of something else critical brought to us by trees. Oxygen, which need as much as possible at these altitudes. Whether you are hiking the surrounds of Prince Creek, the Crown, or Thomas Lakes, remember that the smallest carving in trees can kill or disfigure them. 
• Wildlife encounters: Fall is hunting season for wildlife as well, as they prepare themselves and their families for the coming winter months. Always remember to keep a safe distance from any wildlife you may encounter — it is vital to avoid stressing out the animals to ensure that their natural habitats remain healthy and safe. Be sure to adhere to signs about trail closures during migration seasons. 
• Fall Hiking – Leave It As You Found It: Enjoy discovering plants? Rocks up Mount Sopris? Historical and cultural items? Be sure to leave them as you found them so everyone can experience the joy of discovery. Colorado has more than 2,000 different species of wildflowers, all with their own unique part to play in our ecosystem. 
• Celebrating Cultural Heritage: Ride the Ranches – Potato Day and the Mexican Rodeo are two of the many events that celebrate Carbondale’s rich ranching roots. Though not a traditional element responsible recreation, a willingness to learn about these heritage-based events and the people that keep their spirit alive is vital to their continued success. 
• Rock Climbing:  Rock climbing is an inherently dangerous sport. Before heading up to climb around Carbondale and chalking up your hands, be sure that you have the proper equipment and a high level of technical skills. Always be aware of local rules and regulations at the crag, and be respectful of other climbers by climbing in small groups.  Guides should always be contacted for beginners to the sport. The Monkey House climbing gym in Carbondale is a great source to learn more about climbing safely in the Roaring Fork Valley.

Fall is the perfect time to visit Carbondale and see the town as the locals do. Take a hike to see the full spectrum of colors that cover the trees, take some time away from civilization during an elk hunt. And as always, be sure to Take it Easy on Carbondale and its residents, especially as they find some breathing room after the busy summer season. 

Be sure to contact Carbondale Tourism for any questions or trip planning advice during your autumn Colorado adventure.