photos by Stephen Eginoire

The San Juan Mountains have more square miles of alpine tundra than anywhere in the lower 48. And with such a short growing season (approximately 180 days), this delicate ecozone makes a most impressive effort to put forth as much life as possible before the inevitable snows. As the colorful flora peaks at dizzying levels, heres an up close view of high country gems.

White paintbrush. Rock primrose. Healthy heads of kings crown. A lush bundle of Indian paintbrush grows along a sunny slope.

 

In this week's issue...

December 18, 2025
Let it snow

Although ski areas across the West have taken a hit, there’s still hope 

December 18, 2025
Look, but don't take

Lessons in pottery theft – and remorse – from SW Colorado

December 11, 2025
Big plans

Whole Foods, 270 apartments could be coming to Durango Mall parcel