Summer vs last week of September?

Question

I’m debating whether to visit midsummer or last week of September. I wanted to combine ouray fall colors with Moab last week of September. But now I’m thinking the hikes to columbine lakes May have snow and no wildflowers. Which hikes are best for fall colors last week of September? When is the best time to visit in the peak of the summer? Mostly interested in hiking/nature.

I’m visiting with 3 kids ages 8, 5 and 2.

Answer

Visiting Ouray with young children requires balancing weather, trail accessibility, and scenery. Both midsummer and late September have pros and cons, especially when planning hikes for kids aged 2, 5, and 8.

Summer (June–August)

Pros:

All trails, including higher elevation hikes like Columbine Lakes, are usually snow-free by mid-July.
Wildflowers are at their peak from late June through early August, creating colorful meadows.
Warm temperatures make hiking with kids easier, with less need for heavy gear.

Cons:

Peak tourist season, so popular trails and parking can be crowded.
Mosquitoes and bugs can be more noticeable near lakes and streams.

Best summer hikes for families:

Bear Creek Falls Trail – short, scenic, easy for kids.
Box Canyon Falls Park – very accessible and fun for little ones.
Lower Cascade Creek trails – gentle and near water.
Yankee Boy Basin – accessible wildflower meadows and gentle walks for kids (best mid-July).

Late September (fall)

Pros:

Fall colors peak around last week of September, especially in aspen groves along the Million Dollar Highway and Yankee Boy Basin.
Fewer crowds make it easier with children.
Cooler temperatures for comfortable hiking without overheating.

Cons:

Higher elevation hikes like Columbine Lakes may already have early snow or trail closures.
Wildflowers have faded by this time.
Shorter daylight hours.

Best fall hikes for families:

Bear Creek Falls Trail – short, scenic, great fall colors.
Box Canyon Falls Park – remains accessible, less crowded.
Ridgway River Trail – flat, easy, with beautiful color along the river.
Yankee Boy Basin road to lower elevations – easier access to fall foliage without strenuous hiking.

Recommendation: For a family with young children, late summer (mid-July to early August) is safest for high-elevation trails and wildflowers, while late September is ideal if your priority is fall foliage with easier, lower-elevation hikes. Combining Ouray in late September with Moab works well for scenery and comfortable weather, but be prepared to skip high-elevation alpine hikes that may have early snow.

Summer vs last week of September?

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