Should You Travel During the Shoulder Season? Here’s What You’ll Love (and What to Know)

When most people plan a trip, they think in extremes: peak summer vacations, winter ski breaks, or holiday travel sprints. But there’s a secret season in between the chaos, one that savvy travelers are falling in love with.

It’s called the shoulder season, and if you haven’t traveled during it yet, you might be missing out.

Whether you’re eyeing the colorful hills of Pagosa Springs, the peaceful shores of Lake Granbury, or the quiet mountain calm of Angel Fire, New Mexico, shoulder season may be the best time to take your next trip.

Here’s what makes it so special and what to know before you book.

What Is the Shoulder Season?

The shoulder season refers to the weeks between a destination’s peak travel periods. Think late October into early December (before holiday crowds hit), or mid-January to early spring. It’s that perfect in-between: after the rush, before the next wave.

Each location’s shoulder season is slightly different, but the idea is the same — fewer people, lower prices, and surprisingly great experiences.

The Best Rates (Without Sacrificing Quality)

One of the biggest benefits of traveling during shoulder season? Pricing.

Vacation rentals, hotels, and even flights often drop in cost once peak season ends. But what doesn’t drop is the quality of the experience. You can often score the same beautifully curated space at a lower nightly rate simply because fewer people are booking during that window.

Pro tip: Skyview Vacations offers a range of homes that remain just as clean, cared for, and thoughtfully stocked in the off-season. You’re not getting a “second-tier” stay — just better value.

Peace and Quiet You Can Actually Hear

If you've ever shared a resort hot tub with 10 strangers or waited 45 minutes for brunch in a tourist town, you know how valuable quiet can be.

During shoulder season, you’ll find:

• Trails with fewer hikers

• Lakefronts without the boat traffic

• Small-town restaurants that aren’t fully booked

• Hot tubs and fire pits all to yourself

  
  

It’s the kind of atmosphere that makes a weekend feel like a true escape. You get to breathe a little deeper and move at your own pace.

Gorgeous Views With Fewer Photobombers

Shoulder season doesn’t mean drab weather. In places like Pagosa Springs or Angel Fire, early fall offers golden trees and crisp air, while early November brings clear skies and cool evenings that are perfect for stargazing or sipping something warm on the patio.

In Granbury, the lake stays peaceful well into November, with mild temps and sunsets that paint the sky in autumn colors. And the best part? You’ll actually have room to take that perfect photo without elbowing for space.

It’s Easier to Find the Right Rental

During peak seasons, the best vacation rentals book fast and often get scooped up by repeat guests. But during shoulder season, you’re more likely to:

• Find availability in your top-choice home

• Book last-minute without panic

• Enjoy longer stays at a discount

• Choose from options that are usually full in summer or winter

Want that lakefront home with a dock and fire pit?

Or the mountain-view cabin with two living rooms?

Shoulder season is your chance.

Thoughtful Touches That Feel Even More Special

The truth is, great hosts aim to deliver a top-tier experience year-round — but there's something about traveling in the quieter season that makes the little comforts stand out even more.

A warm welcome note. A soft throw blanket. A hand-picked list of things to do nearby. In the stillness of shoulder season, those thoughtful details feel extra cozy and intentional.

So while the quality of hospitality never dips, the experience of receiving it during a slower, more peaceful time can feel even more memorable.

What to Know Before You Book

Of course, traveling in the shoulder season isn’t exactly the same as traveling in summer. Here are a few tips to help you plan smart:

1. Some attractions may have limited hours.

Check whether seasonal spots (like ice cream shops, kayak rentals, or local tours) are still open. Many stay open well into November, but some may shift to weekend-only schedules.

2. Pack for layers.

The beauty of shoulder season is its variety, but that can mean warm days and chilly nights. Bring cozy layers, especially if you’ll be out after dark.

3. Ask your host for seasonal tips.

A good host will help you find what’s open, what’s local, and what’s worth seeing this time of year. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions.

Shoulder season is the perfect mix of calm, comfort, and affordability. It’s your chance to reset before the holidays or just enjoy the beauty of a slower season.

So, if you’re on the fence about taking that trip this fall, here’s your sign:

Go. Pack the cozy socks, grab a book, and book the stay that lets you breathe.

You won’t regret having the lake or the mountains all to yourself.