Are you looking to experience the best Colorado fall colors? I’ve got you covered.
Having spent a lot of time in Colorado recently, I’ve fallen in love with its mountains and outdoor recreation. As a passionate hiker, I always look forward to autumn because of the incredible scenery when the leaves change from bright greens to reds, oranges, and yellows.
As I eagerly await the changing leaves in Colorado, I felt inspired to create this guide for fellow adventurers who want to experience Colorado’s fall colors in full swing — this colorful state has no shortage of Aspen trees.
Keep reading for the best tips on when and where to see the stunning fall foliage. You’ll discover the ideal times for hikes and road trips and the top spots to visit.
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When To See Fall Colors Colorado
The best time to experience fall in Colorado is between mid-September and late October. Fall foliage in Colorado varies across the state due to differences in elevation. Generally, areas at higher elevations reach their peak color before those at lower elevations.
Additionally, fall foliage in Colorado typically moves from north to south. The mountains in the northern part of the state, such as those around Steamboat Springs, start changing first. The foliage then progresses toward Aspen, Crested Butte, and finally, Durango and the surrounding areas.
Best Destinations To Appreciate Fall In Colorado
Below, I have outlined the best places to visit in Colorado in the fall.
Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are two iconic mountains, each standing over 14,000 feet tall, side by side. Surrounded by countless aspen trees, there’s no better place to view Aspen fall colors than here.
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness has numerous hiking trails, making it ideal for outdoor treks. Notably, the most famous hike in the area is the Four Pass Loop, a challenging 26-mile backpacking route. The best time to visit is mid-September to early October to truly experience the bright yellow aspen trees.
Kenosha Pass
Kenosha Pass off Hwy 285 is absolutely breathtaking with an abundance of Aspen trees. This is a great spot to see Fall colors easily from the highway, parking lot, or take a short walk over to the trees.
Be warned —this places gets very crowded when the colors are peaking, on weekends and weekdays, likely because it’s so beautiful and easy to access. There was probably at least 100 cars when I drove pass on Sept 25, 2024.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best and most accessible places to appreciate fall colors in Colorado. Located about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Denver, it’s an easy trip for those traveling from the Mile High City.
The park is overflowing with wildlife, hiking trails, scenic mountain vistas, and alpine lakes, making it the perfect place to experience stunning scenery and enjoy outdoor activities. The park is at its best in the fall months, from mid to late September. One of the best ways to enjoy the fall foliage is by driving the Trail Ridge Road, which winds through the park from Estes Park to Grand Lake.
Crystal Mill
Crystal Mill is a charming wooden powerhouse built in 1892, and it’s one of the most photographed spots in Colorado. The old log cabin is famous for its picturesque setting and stunning scenery, including mountains off in the distance, the Crystal River flowing in front, and the surrounding forested area.
While lovely any time of year, it’s exceptionally breathtaking in the fall when the surrounding aspen trees turn bright yellow. To visit, you must tackle the challenging 12-mile Lead King Basin and Crystal Mill Loop hike in Carbondale, Colorado. For the best views, plan your trip for late September.
Nederland
Nederland, Colorado, is located about 30 minutes from Boulder and is a top destination for hiking and camping. For those interested in backpacking, the Indian Peaks Wilderness is ideal, offering over 73,000 acres and more than 30 trails.
If you prefer to stay in your vehicle, the area also features stunning scenic drives, including the 60-mile Peak-To-Peak Byway, which runs along the Continental Divide. Both places are wonderful in early October when the fall foliage is fully displayed.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is famous for being the wildflower capital of Colorado, but it’s also a fantastic spot for viewing fall foliage. The best way to take in the autumn colors is by driving the scenic Kebler Pass, this area is home to the biggest aspen grove in Colorado.
You’ll see stunning bright yellow leaves and magical mountain views in the distance along this winding road. The drive takes about two hours and is best enjoyed during the first week of October when the Crested Butte fall colors really come to life.
Pro Tip: If you want to get away from the crowds, Hwy 12 is a beautiful drive full of Aspen trees and dispersed camping.
Mueller State Park
Mueller State Park is a fantastic destination for experiencing fall colors in Colorado. Located just 50 minutes from Colorado Springs, the park is renowned for its campground, wildlife, nature trails, mountain views, and aspen trees.
One of the park’s standout features is the breathtaking view of Pikes Peak. While you can easily explore the park’s natural beauty and take in the views of the mountains from here, its prime location just 40 miles away also makes it an ideal base for adventures to Pikes Peak. If you are chasing Colorado fall colors, then the best time to visit Mueller State Park and the surrounding region is typically early October.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs, a charming town in northwestern Colorado, is well-known for its excellent snow and ski resorts. However, it’s also a fantastic place to experience fall in Colorado. The area boasts a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as some genuinely stunning scenic drives.
For hiking enthusiasts, the Flash of Gold Trail is a great choice; it’s about 10.5 miles long and offers impressive views of aspen trees turning yellow. If you prefer scenic drives, consider Buffalo Pass, which starts near downtown Steamboat and crosses the Continental Divide. This 15-mile drive provides spectacular scenery, especially when the leaves turn in mid-September.
Grand Lake
Grand Lake is a quaint town just outside Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s the perfect spot to stay for those planning to drive Trail Ridge Road. However, if you’d like to explore activities outside the park, several other options exist.
One of the best ways to take in the fall colors is by simply strolling around Grand Lake, where the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow around mid-September. While walking, hiking, and scenic drives are popular during the leaf-peeping season, a unique experience is kayaking or canoeing on Grand Lake to appreciate the surrounding colors and distant mountain views fully.
Ouray
Ouray, located in the San Juan Mountain range, is another fantastic spot to experience Colorado’s fall colors. This charming town is known for its prime location near Telluride, its famous hot springs, and its renowned via ferrata, one of the best in the United States.
In addition to these attractions, Ouray is ideal for scenic drives, including the Million Dollar Highway, a 25-mile route from Ouray to Silverton. The best time to enjoy this drive is from mid-September to early October when the fall foliage is the brightest.
Grand Mesa
Grand Mesa, located about 60 miles outside of Grand Junction, is the biggest flat-top mountain in the world and offers a unique experience and fabulous outdoor adventures.
One of the top attractions in the area is the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway. This 63-mile route is a popular way to experience the fall foliage and takes about 2 hours to complete. For the best leaf-peeping experience, visit from mid to late September.
FAQs About The Best Fall Foliage In Colorado
Continue reading below as I answer a few frequently asked questions about Colorado fall colors.
What is the best time to see fall colors in Colorado?
The best time to see fall colors in Colorado is between mid-September and late October.
Where can I drive in Colorado to see fall colors?
Trail Ridge Road, the Million Dollar Highway, and the Peak-To-Peak Byway are the best places to drive in Colorado to see fall colors.
What is the best town in Colorado to visit in the fall?
The best towns in Colorado to visit in the fall are Aspen, Nederland, or Grand Lake.
Final Thoughts On Fall In Colorado
Fall in Colorado is truly exceptional, blending breathtaking mountain scenery with endless outdoor adventures, cooler temperatures, and vibrant autumn leaves. Whether you’re a local or planning a fall getaway to the state, aim to schedule your activities between mid-September and late October for the best leaf peeping.
Be sure to rent a vehicle and pack sturdy hiking shoes. The most memorable way to experience the beauty is by exploring the outdoors and taking scenic drives to fully appreciate the stunning views up close.
I got to spend a semester in the Pagosa Springs area and it was spectacular! We drove over to Ouray one day in October – truly one of the prettiest places I’ve ever been, especially in the fall.
Just stunning. Looks incredible and those colours. Wow.
Hello! The place looks gorgeous! Thanks for sharing this idea for a fall trip!