As autumn sweeps across the San Juan Mountains, tourists flock to this picturesque region to witness the stunning fall foliage. The golden aspens and the vibrant landscapes draw thousands of visitors each year, especially during the peak season from late September to early October. However, amidst the breathtaking views and serene hikes, a darker reality lurks: scammers are on the prowl, targeting unsuspecting tourists. Here are four scams you should be aware of to ensure your visit to the San Juan Mountains remains a memorable and safe experience.
1. Fake Parking Attendants
One of the most common scams targeting tourists in the San Juan Mountains involves fake parking attendants. These scammers position themselves at popular trailheads, scenic overlooks, and other tourist-heavy areas. They dress in official-looking uniforms or vests and charge visitors for parking in spots that are, in fact, free. In some cases, these scammers even issue fake parking tickets that demand immediate payment, often in cash, to avoid any “penalties.”
The scammer sets up shop in areas where parking can be confusing or where tourists may not be familiar with the rules. They may post temporary signs or create barriers that make it appear as though parking is restricted or paid. Once a tourist parks, the scammer approaches, claiming to be an official attendant and asks for payment. If the tourist refuses, they might be threatened with a fine or a tow.
Always check for official signage before paying for parking. In many cases, popular spots will have clear signs indicating whether a fee is required. If something seems off, don’t hesitate to ask other visitors or contact local authorities. You can also park in designated areas where you can pay at a machine or inside a nearby establishment to avoid any suspicion.
2. Bogus Cabin Rentals
As the demand for cozy, secluded cabins in the mountains spikes during the fall, so too do the number of scams involving bogus cabin rentals. Scammers create fake listings for charming cabins that seem perfect for a fall getaway. They often use photos of real properties found online or from previous legitimate listings and post them on various rental sites, sometimes even creating entire fake websites to lure in tourists.
The scam usually starts online. A tourist searches for a cabin to rent in the San Juan Mountains, stumbles upon a listing that appears legitimate, and contacts the “owner” or “property manager.” The scammer is usually responsive and polite, offering a significant discount if the tourist pays upfront or through unconventional methods like wire transfers or gift cards. After the payment is made, the scammer vanishes, leaving the tourist stranded without a place to stay.
Book through reputable platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or VRBO, which offer protection against fraud. Be wary of listings that seem too good to be true, especially if the price is significantly lower than other similar properties in the area. Always look for reviews from previous guests and avoid paying via methods that are difficult to trace or recover. If possible, contact the property owner directly through the platform to verify the booking.
3. Phony Tour Guides
The San Juan Mountains are home to some of Colorado’s most beautiful hiking trails, scenic drives, and historic sites. During the fall, the region is especially popular for guided tours that showcase the best views and hidden gems of the area. Unfortunately, this popularity has also attracted scammers posing as tour guides. These fraudsters offer fake guided tours, particularly targeting out-of-town visitors unfamiliar with the area.
The scammer advertises guided tours through social media, local bulletin boards, or even fake websites. They might claim to be an expert in the region, offering insider knowledge of the best spots to view the fall foliage or to see wildlife. After the tourist books and pays for the tour—often requiring an upfront deposit—the scammer either cancels last minute with no refund or leads a poorly organized tour that does not live up to the promised experience.
Always book tours through established and reputable companies. Check online reviews from multiple sources like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews, and make sure the guide has a verifiable history of conducting tours in the area. Avoid paying for the entire tour upfront unless it’s through a secure and recognized payment method. If something feels off, trust your instincts and look for another operator.
4. Credit Card Skimming at Gas Stations
Tourists driving through the San Juan Mountains, especially on remote and scenic routes, should be vigilant when stopping at gas stations. One increasingly common scam involves the installation of credit card skimming devices at gas pumps. These devices, often undetectable to the untrained eye, capture the card information of unsuspecting tourists when they pay for fuel, leading to unauthorized charges and potential identity theft.
The scammer installs a skimming device on a gas pump, usually in an area that isn’t frequently monitored by staff. When a tourist inserts their card to pay for gas, the device reads the card’s magnetic strip and stores the information. The scammer later retrieves the device to access the stolen data, which can then be used to make fraudulent purchases or sold on the dark web.
Whenever possible, use pumps that are closer to the gas station building, as these are less likely to be tampered with. Paying inside the station rather than at the pump is another safe option. Be cautious of any pump that looks tampered with, such as if the card reader is loose or if there are suspicious attachments. Regularly check your bank statements for any unauthorized charges, especially after visiting a gas station in a remote area.
Conclusion
The beauty of the San Juan Mountains in the fall is undeniable, and it’s no wonder that this region attracts tourists from all over. However, it’s essential to stay vigilant and informed to avoid falling victim to scams that prey on unsuspecting visitors. By being aware of these common scams—fake parking attendants, bogus cabin rentals, phony tour guides, and credit card skimming—you can protect yourself and ensure your trip is as enjoyable as possible. Always remember to double-check the legitimacy of any service or offer, use secure payment methods, and report any suspicious activity to local authorities. With these precautions in mind, you can fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery and vibrant colors of the San Juan Mountains without worry.
