THE NORM
Early in September afternoon thunderstorms may still occur regularly.  Later in September cloudy skies give way to clear blue skies accented by puffy white clouds.  Daytime temperatures continue to be warm or even hot.  Nighttime temperatures show a marked decline.  Summer birds start heading south for the winter, others arrive from summer locations to the north.  Labor Day weekend is the official end to the summer season.  Evening programs and Nightwalks are offered each week during the summer season. By month's end Virginia Creeper turns red and heralds the start of fall color.  Visitation remains high, especially on weekends. 

SEPTEMBER 2009
The historic visitor center closed for rehab in mid-month.  A temporary visitor center has been set up in a trailer across Frijoles Creek. All trails remain open. Weather had been warm but a strong cold front promises much cooler temperatures before the month ends.  Tarantulas have  been spotted starting their search for mates. American Pika in the high elevations are collecting bountiful amounts of greens to see them through the winter.  There are also numerous bull elks bugling in the high country.  Some leaves are starting to change in both the higher elevations and lower elevations of the park.  Peak color may arrive in the high elevation by month's end and probably by early October for lower elevations.  Visitation has slowed but will increase by the end of the month with fall color and Balloon Fiesta early next month.