9 Best Places to See Colorado Fall Colors in 2024

Maroon Bells hike in fall

Are you looking for the Best Places to See Colorado Fall Colors? I’ve got you covered! 

As the leaves begin to change, Colorado becomes a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, making it one of the best places in the United States to experience the magic of autumn

From the Rocky Mountains to the San Juan Mountains, the state boasts some of the most stunning fall foliage in the country.

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Whether you’re looking for the best fall hikes in Colorado or the best leaf-peeping drives, I’ve created this detailed guide that will help you discover the best places to see Colorado fall colors.

So, whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful retreat, get ready to witness the beauty of Colorado in the fall!

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Best Time to See Fall Colors in Colorado

Colorado Fall colors typically peak in late September to early October. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the elevation, weather patterns, and other factors. 

For the best chance of seeing fall foliage at its peak, plan your trip in late September to early October. However, the peak viewing times can vary depending on where you are in the state.

5 Tips for Fall Foliage in Colorado (From a Local!)
  • At higher elevations, such as the Rocky Mountains, the fall colors can peak as early as mid-September.
  • In contrast, at lower elevations, such as Denver, the peak may not occur until mid-October.

Additionally, weather conditions can impact the timing and intensity of fall colors.

Warm, sunny days and cool nights are ideal for producing the most vibrant and long-lasting displays of fall foliage.

It’s always a good idea to check local reports and plan your visit accordingly to ensure you don’t miss the beautiful fall foliage.

Colorado fall in the monuntains

Whether you’re taking a scenic drive, hiking a trail, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, fall is the perfect time to experience the natural beauty of Colorado.

Quick Facts: Top Spots for Colorado Fall Foliage 

Colorado is known for its stunning fall foliage, and there are many places to see it throughout the state.

Here are some of the best places to see fall colors in Colorado:

Rocky Mountain National Park

The park’s Trail Ridge Road offers stunning views of the fall colors from above the treeline. You can also explore the park’s many hiking trails, including the popular Bear Lake Trail.

Animals on Rocky Mountain National Park

Kebler Pass

This scenic drive takes you through one of the largest aspen groves in the country, offering a breathtaking display of golden aspen trees. It’s one of the best places to visit in October in the USA!

Kebler pass fall evening

San Juan Skyway

This 236-mile loop takes you through some of the most picturesque mountain scenery in Colorado, with plenty of opportunities to see fall colors along the way.

Million Dollar Highway

This iconic drive offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains, with plenty of opportunities to see fall foliage.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

This park is home to the largest aspen grove in Colorado, offering a stunning display of fall colors.

Georgetown Loop Railroad

This historic narrow gauge railroad offers a unique way to see fall foliage, with stunning views of the mountains and fall colors along the way.

fall foliage in Colorado

Ohio Creek Road

This scenic drive takes you through some of the most stunning fall foliage in the state, with plenty of opportunities for leaf peeping.

Guanella Pass

This drive offers some of the most breathtaking views of fall colors in Colorado, with beautiful aspen trees lining the road.

Best Fall Hikes in Colorado

Colorado is home to some of the most stunning hiking trails in the country, and the fall season provides an extra special experience with the changing colors of the leaves. 

Here are some of the best fall hikes in Colorado:

San Juan Mountains

This range offers some of the most stunning fall foliage in Colorado, with plenty of hiking trails to explore.

rocky mountains during fall

Rocky Mountain National Park

With over 350 miles of hiking trails, the park offers plenty of opportunities to see fall colors up close. It’s one of the most popular destinations to visit in Colorado in the Fall. 

Steamboat Springs

This mountain town offers plenty of hiking trails with stunning views of fall colors, including the popular Fish Creek Falls Trail.

Best Fall Drives in Colorado

Trail Ridge Road

This scenic drive takes you above the tree line, offering amazing views of the fall colors from above.

Million Dollar Highway

This drive offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains, with plenty of opportunities to see fall foliage.

The Million dollar highway

Ohio Creek Road

This scenic drive takes you through some of the most stunning fall foliage in the state, with plenty of opportunities for leaf peeping.

Best places to see fall colors in Colorado

A visit to Colorado can turn into a lifetime adventure!

Mother Nature is still in charge here, especially when fall turns everything into a painting: the crimson of a maple leaf, an oak’s burnished orange, the brilliant gold of an aspen tree.

The annual metamorphosis in Colorado is undoubtedly one of the most incredible things to put on your bucket list. Maybe it’s the crisp change in the air or the vibrant colors of the leaves on the trees. 

adorable dinosaur diamond colorado

Now imagine yourself amongst the mountains looking out at the most fantastic fall foliage you’ve ever seen. Colorado is the place to be. 

Discover my list of the best places to see fall colors in Colorado and their most scenic byways with our ultimate list. 

1. Guanella Pass

Guanella Pass is an excellent starting point if you wish to discover Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

The trail offers grandiose views of the 14,060-foot Mount Bierstadt and the alpine tundra before descending into intricated grooves of pine and aspen. 

mesmerizing guanella pass colorado

Once you’re riding along Guanella Pass, make sure you don’t miss the lovely Georgetown.

Established in 1868, it was originally a miner’s camp featuring the original railway built in 1877 with the scope of transporting mineral goods, including gold.

Today, you can still hop on the train and relive the good old days and explore the Lebanon Silver Mine. Just make sure you bring a warm jacket with you as the temperatures can get cool in the mine.  

  • Distance: 22 miles
  • Suggested Time: 1 hour

2. Trail Ridge Road 

Trail Ridge Road, a scenic route between Estes Park and Grand Lake, is one of the most beautiful drives in Colorado.

The road follows a ridge for much of its length, providing travelers with spectacular Rocky Mountain National Park views.

trail ridge road colorado

Particularly stunning during fall, Trail Ridge Road is also dotted with charming historic districts with many shops and excellent restaurants. 

The drive east from Estes Park ascends steadily at first, providing an overview of the plains and foothills, and the changes that occur en route are fascinating to observe.

  • Distance: 48 miles
  • Suggested Time: 2–3 hours

3. Buffalo Pass

Buffalo Pass is definitely one of the best spots to admire Colorado’s fall colors.

This 15 miles dirty road crosses diverse natural sceneries within the Parc Range of the Rocky Mountains, and it offers spectacular views of the Routt National Forest, the alpine lakes along the route, and easy access to Mount Zirkel Wilderness.

beautiful buffalo pass colorado

I absolutely love this trail because you can stop on the way to explore the many hiking trails, enjoy a horseback ride or stop with your tent, as free camping is allowed here.

  • Distance: 82 miles
  • Suggested Time: 2 hours

4. Highway of Legends

Colorado’s Highway of Legends is often overlooked, but it’s a great place to enjoy the stunning autumn colors of Southern Colorado.

This place will put a spell on you, and at its peak on the Chuchara Pass at 9,938 feet, you will enjoy the most scenic views of Sangre de Cristos and Spanish Peaks.

freezing highway of legends colorado

What I love about this trail is that you can feel how permeated it is with historical heritage.

Here is where gold-seeking conquistadors, as well as Comanche, Pueblo, and Tarahumara Indians, once traveled. 

  • Distance: 82 miles
  • Suggested Time: 2 hours

5. Grand Mesa

Colorado’s Grand Mesa scenic trail is an incredibly beautiful byway and a must-see when traveling to Colorado.

The road climbs along the picturesque Grand Mesa Scenic Byway, where you will enjoy more than 400 miles of trails and endless trout lakes. 

sexy grand mesa colorado

They say that after effort comes comfort. Then relax and unwind after an autumn trekking in one of the many cozy lodges and delicious dining spots.

  • Distance: 63 miles
  • Suggested Time: 2 hours

6. Alpine Loop

Get your 4×4 cause the Alpine Loop climbs over two 12,000-foot passes – Engineer and Cinnamon – as well as many ghost towns.

This 65-mile scenic drive rolls along a surreal landscape of tundra and treeless mountain. 

stunning alpine loop trail

You can start the Alpine Loop Trail either from Lake City, Silverstone, or Ouray, and all of them offer incredible fall sceneries paired with hot spring pools and camping sites. 

  • Distance: 63 miles
  • Suggested Time: 7 hours

7. Kebler Pass, one of the Best Places to See Colorado Fall Colors

Kebler Pass is a secluded trail in the center of the Rockies featuring lush hillsides and stunning autumn foliage

When in Kebler Pass, you’ll pass by Crested Butte, a lovely town very well known for its natural beauty and considered “Colorado’s last great ski town” as it’s also one of the best places to visit during winter.

kebler pass colorado

The town is surrounded by incredible peaks and many lodging, dining, and shopping opportunities.

However, adventure is calling, and you must go!

For the most adventurous experience, try sleeping under a blanket of stars in one of the many campgrounds along the way. One of the best is definitely Lost Lake, offering the most incredible fall colors.

8. Collegiate Peaks

Collegiate Peaks is an incredible hiking trail situated along the Arkansas River.

The trail continuously rises above the 14,000-foot mark and is one of the preferred trails for fall lovers.

The panorama along the way is an explosion of autumnal colors, making you feel like you just stepped into a painting. 

amazing collegiate peak hiking trail

If you’re visiting Collegiate Peaks, don’t miss Salida, a major hub for rafting, kayaking, and fishing tours.

  • Distance: 57 miles
  • Suggested Time: Allow 2 hours

9. Dinosaur Diamond

Northwestern Colorado’s Dinosaur Diamond will take you through incredible landscapes that once shook under the footfalls of dinosaurs. 

It’s not only the stunning fall colors and sceneries but also the priceless historical heritage of this byway combining grandiose nature, fossils, footprints, and Fremont Indians’ legacy. 

lovely dinosaur diamond

The byway traverses high mountains and barren plateaus, with stops at two national parks, two national monuments

  • Distance: 486 miles
  • Suggested Time: 2 to 3 days

Final thoughts on where to see fall colors in Colorado

As the season changes and the leaves turn, Colorado becomes a magical wonderland of autumn colors

From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the picturesque parks and forests, the best places to see Colorado fall colors offer an unforgettable experience. 

Whether you’re taking a scenic drive, hiking a trail, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, the natural beauty of Colorado in the fall is sure to leave you in awe. 

maroon bells in fall

With so many options to explore, it’s no wonder why leaf peepers from all over the world flock to Colorado each autumn.

So, pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready to witness the stunning colors of fall in Colorado!

FAQ about Colorado fall colors

  1. Does Colorado get fall colors?

    Yes, Colorado is known for its beautiful fall colors. The state is home to a variety of trees, including golden aspens, oak, cottonwood, and maple, which all contribute to the colorful autumn display. 

  2. What is the best time to see fall colors in Colorado?

    The best time to see fall colors in Colorado is typically late September to early October.

    The best time to see fall colors in Colorado typically ranges from mid-September to mid-October, depending on the elevation and location. At higher elevations, such as the Rocky Mountains, the fall colors can peak as early as mid-September, while at lower elevations, such as Denver, the peak may not occur until mid-October.

  3. How long do fall colors last in Colorado?

    The duration of fall colors in Colorado can vary depending on the location and elevation, but typically, fall colors begin to appear in mid-September and reach their peak in early to mid-October

    After the peak, the leaves start to change color and eventually fall off the trees, typically lasting until the end of October or early November. 

  4. What are the best places to see fall colors in Colorado?

    The best places to see fall colors in Colorado include Rocky Mountain National Park, Kebler Pass, the San Juan Skyway, Golden Gate Canyon State Park, and the Million Dollar Highway.

  5. Where can I watch fall colors in Colorado?

    You can watch fall colors in Colorado in many places, such as Rocky Mountain National Park, San Juan Mountains, Trail Ridge Road, and Kebler Pass.

  6. What are the best fall hikes in Colorado?

    The best fall hikes in Colorado are Maroon Bells, Hanging Lake, Kenosha Pass, Bear Peak, and Indian Peaks Wilderness.

  7. Where are the best fall colors in Colorado right now?

    Some of the best places to see fall colors in Colorado include Rocky Mountain National Park, the San Juan Mountains, and the Maroon Bells near Aspen.

    It's always a good idea to check with local parks and forests or consult online resources to get the latest updates on fall foliage conditions and the best places to see fall colors during your visit to Colorado.

  8. What is the best time to see fall colors in Aspen Colorado?

    The best time to see fall colors in Aspen, Colorado is usually from late September to early October, with the peak typically occurring in the last week of September. 

    However, the timing of fall colors in Aspen can vary depending on factors such as elevation, temperature, and weather conditions. 

    Some of the best places to see fall colors in Aspen include the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, Independence Pass, and Castle Creek Road. It's always a good idea to check with local parks and forests or consult online resources to get the latest updates on fall foliage conditions during your visit to Aspen, Colorado.

  9. Where are the fall colors in Colorado in October?

    Some of the best places to see fall colors in Colorado during October include:
    Rocky Mountain National Park, Kebler Pass, San Juan Skyway, Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Guanella Pass, and Ohio Creek Road.

  10. Where are fall colors peaking in Colorado?

    The peak of fall colors in Colorado varies depending on the location and elevation. Generally, the colors change in mid-September at higher elevations, such as in the mountains and gradually move down to lower elevations throughout October. 

    Colorado's best places to see fall colors include Rocky Mountain National Park, Maroon Bells, San Juan Mountains, and Kebler Pass. 

  11. Where can I photograph fall colors in Colorado?

    You can capture stunning fall colors in Colorado at Maroon Bells, Kebler Pass, Dallas Divide, and Kenosha Pass. Don't miss the golden aspen trees!

  12. Is the Silverton narrow gauge railroad one of the best places to visit in Colorado in the Fall?

    Yes, the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is considered one of the best places to visit in Colorado in the fall. 

    The train ride offers stunning views of the fall foliage in the San Juan Mountains, which is particularly beautiful in the autumn months when the aspen trees turn a brilliant shade of yellow, orange, and red. 

  13. What are the best places to see fall colors near Denver?

    The best places to see fall colors near Denver are Rocky Mountain National Park, Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Guanella Pass, and Mount Evans. These areas offer stunning views of the changing leaves in autumn.

  14. Is October a good time to visit Colorado?

    Yes, October is a great time to visit Colorado. The fall colors are at their peak, and there are plenty of festivals and outdoor activities to enjoy.

  15. Does Colorado get cold in October?

    Yes, Colorado can get cold in October, especially at higher elevations. It's important to pack warm clothing and prepare for potential snow and winter weather.

  16. What is Aspen Colorado like in October?

    In October, Aspen, Colorado is known for its stunning fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and smaller crowds. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and leaf peeping, as well as attending fall festivals and events.

  17. Is there fall foliage in Colorado Springs?

    Yes, there is fall foliage in Colorado Springs, especially in the nearby mountains like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. It's a great place to see fall colors.

  18. Where do the leaves change first in Colorado?

    The leaves first change in the higher elevations of Colorado, such as the mountains and forests. Areas like the San Juan Mountains and Rocky Mountain National Park tend to see the earliest color changes.


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Best Places to See Colorado Fall Colors

Sara Rodríguez

A passionate traveler with a mission: Help you plan your next trip easily and enjoy it to the fullest.

In this travel blog you will find everything you need to get inspired and organize your next adventure. Read more about my story here.

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