Bobcat Pass
Enchanted Circle, New Mexico · 9,810 ft
Typical peak
Sep 20 – Sep 28
low confidence in typical timing.
Best light
Best at sunset
The highest highway pass in New Mexico, with aspen running up both sides of the saddle and open grass meadows at the top. Late light along the ridgelines separates the aspen edges that midday sun flattens.
Seasonal model estimate. Timing remains uncertain; check recent reports before traveling. Source: seasonal timing model. Calculated .
Crowds
low
Usually quieter, especially around dawn.
Getting there
NM 38 crosses the pass about 4 miles east of Red River; use the gravel shoulder turnouts within a mile of the summit.
What turns here
- quaking aspen
Color progression
Typical peak Sep 24Typical color progression for Bobcat Pass. No change from Aug 17 to Sep 3. First color from Sep 3 to Sep 12. Approaching peak from Sep 12 to Sep 20. Peak from Sep 20 to Sep 28. Past peak from Sep 28 to Oct 8. Bare from Oct 8 to Oct 22.
Leaves are typically down on Nov 1, 2026. Color starts around Sep 3.
This season so far
First frost
Oct 14
8 nights at or below 32°F since Aug 1.
Last 14 days
53°F / 33°F
Average daily high and low.
Modeled weather for these coordinates from the Open-Meteo historical archive, Aug 1 – Oct 31; not a station record. Reported peak is the median date of approved peak-color reports.
Plan the light
Bobcat Pass on September 24, 2026, the center of its typical peak window.
| Event | Time |
|---|---|
| First light (blue hour) Sun 6° below horizon | 6:25 AM |
| Sunrise Rises E · 90° | 6:50 AM |
| Morning golden hour ends 34 min of low, warm light | 7:25 AM |
| Solar noon Highest sun, flattest light | 12:53 PM |
| Evening golden hour starts 34 min before sunset | 6:21 PM |
| Sunset Sets W · 270° | 6:55 PM |
| Last light (blue hour) Sun 6° below horizon | 7:21 PM |
Times in America/Denver · day length 12h 5m · computed from NOAA solar equations.
Local terrain can hide the sun; allow extra time to reach your viewpoint.
Which way to point the camera
Sun rises E, sets W.
Aim within 45° of the sun for translucent leaves. Turn your back to it for flat, accurate color.
Shooting conditions
Glassy water, wind blur, and what the cloud will do to your light.
Recent reports
What people actually saw here. Been recently? Add yours.
Nearby locations
Within 100 miles in a straight line; road distances can be longer.