When to See Colorado’s Fall Foliage
The timing of Colorado’s fall colors varies slightly each year, usually depending on weather conditions leading up to the season. While peak foliage is generally observed from mid-September to mid-October, specific areas may vary by a few days to a week. To ensure you catch the most vibrant colors, it's a good idea to track the progression through foliage forecasts or use a fall color map, which shows the best times for each region of the state.
Top Places to See Fall Colors in Colorado
Guanella Pass is a popular spot for viewing fall leaves, with its scenic drive winding through alpine meadows and dense groves of aspens. The road connects Georgetown and Grant, providing stunning views of Mount Bierstadt and the surrounding peaks. The aspen trees lining the pass turn brilliant shades of gold in the fall, making it a perfect location for a leisurely drive or hike to experience the season’s beauty.
Photo by Monica Breckenridge
Breckenridge offers a charming combination of small-town atmosphere and vibrant fall foliage. The town is nestled among towering peaks and surrounded by groves of aspens that turn brilliant yellow as the temperatures cool. Hikes such as the Boreas Pass Road and the McCullough Gulch Trail offer excellent opportunities to immerse yourself in the fall colors, while the town itself remains an inviting destination for cozy post-hike relaxation.
Photo by Monica Breckenridge
Kebler Pass, home to one of the largest aspen groves in the United States, provides a stunning display of color during the fall. The towering aspens turn vivid shades of gold, with splashes of orange and red mixed in. The scenic drive along Kebler Pass Road, which connects Crested Butte to Paonia, is one of the most popular routes for leaf peeping, offering panoramic views of the mountains and forests awash in autumn colors.
Photo by Monica Breckenridge
Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is another must-visit fall destination. While this park is famous for its towering red rock formations, the contrast of the golden cottonwood trees against the backdrop of the red rocks is particularly stunning in the fall. The easy walking paths and drive-through options make this an accessible spot for those looking to enjoy both foliage and striking natural rock formations in one trip.
Photo by Monica Breckenridge
Maroon Bells near Aspen is one of the most photographed locations in Colorado, and for good reason. The iconic twin peaks, framed by aspen trees, reflect off the crystal-clear waters of Maroon Lake, creating a picture-perfect autumn scene. A visit in late September to early October offers some of the best views of golden aspen groves and towering peaks, making it an unforgettable fall foliage destination.
Photo by Monica Breckenridge
Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, offers a stunning variety of fall colors, from aspen groves to mountain vistas. Driving along the Trail Ridge Road or hiking in the park provides incredible views of the golden aspens contrasted against the rugged mountain terrain. Estes Park is also home to elk, which are often spotted during their fall rutting season, adding another layer of excitement to any leaf-peeping adventure.
Photo by Monica Breckenridge
How to Plan Your Fall Foliage Trip
To make the most of your fall foliage adventure in Colorado, it’s essential to keep track of the changing colors. We recommend referring to a fall color map, which highlights the best times to visit each region. These maps are updated regularly to reflect the progression of the season and are a valuable resource when planning your trip.
So whether you’re exploring the iconic Maroon Bells, taking a scenic drive through Kebler Pass, or soaking in the fall beauty of the San Juan Mountains, Colorado’s fall season is sure to leave you in awe.
Stay tuned for the video walkthrough of the best places to see Colorado’s 2024 fall colors, and don’t forget to pack your camera—you won’t want to miss these views!
