Alpine Loop Drive And Workshop
The Alpine Loop Drive is an absolute gem of Southwest Colorado.
This long and winding scenic drive in the San Juan Mountains offers unparalleled views and an incredible experience. During autumn, photographers flock to the area to capture the fall colors in the San Juans. As photographers ourselves we understand what draws people down here. However, if you’re not familiar with these type of roads, it might be best to have some one with experience drive them for you.
The view from the ghost town of Animas Forks looking back towards town.
Our Alpine Loop Tour and Photography Workshop is a one of a kind experience that we are thrilled to offer. You can pick from a single day excursion or you can choose a multi day trip that allows us to take our time, set up camp, and really take in those incredible views of the San Juan Mountains. Regardless of the option you choose, our Alpine Loop workshop includes instruction from professional photographer Deirdre Denali. Whether you need help with what settings to use on your camera to produce the best results or you’re looking for some ideas on the best composition, we are here to help. This is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life.
Generally, the Alpine Loop is only open from late June (or early July in some years) into the middle of September. Most of the drive is high above 12,000 feet and the seasons are quite short. Winters are ferocious at this elevation and the area generally sees well above 400” of snow or something like 30 to 40 FEET of snow. For a photographers wanting to hit this at the best time we recommend mid July to capture the peak of wild flower season or mid September to take in the changing aspen leaves. Fall color can be hit or miss depending on how much moisture we have received but usually the third week of September is beautiful.
We take our clients up the Alpine Loop in a comfortable and spacious Ford F-150 Lariat 4x4, with cushy leather seats, sunroof, and cupholders galore. You’ll ride in style high above the clouds and well past 12,000 feet in elevation. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to stop along the way as we traverse between Lake City and Silverton via Cinnamon Pass. There is plenty of mining history and relics of the ‘ol West can be found constantly throughout this drive. So if that’s your kind of thing you’re going to be in heaven.
If you are choosing our multi day package you’ve got the extra option to make camp with our luxurious three person Rooftop Tent, complete with 6” thick full size memory foam mattress. The tent comes with a private annex that is large enough for your own bathroom and changing needs. We’ll set the tent up for you while you stroll around camp, take some photos, and breathe in that fresh mountain air. In the morning, you can enjoy a fresh pot of coffee courtesy of your hosts.
Our unique photography workshop offers an incredible experience that allows you to see some of the most incredible views on offer here in Colorado. You’ll have the opportunity to see everything from little alpine animals like marmots and pika, roaming herds of elk, incredible waterfalls, and truly unforgettable mountain vistas.
Snow can stick around in Colorado’s High Country all year round, making driving and hiking a bit interesting.