The leaves are changing, the air is getting colder, and all of Colorado is preparing for fall. With so many different places to see fall leaves in Colorado before they disappear, it can be hard to choose where to go first. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of all the best spots! From one end of the state to the other, here are some places you should make sure you visit this year – or any year after that!
In 2021, the leaves will be at their most vibrant from September 20th to October 25th. The best spots to see them change are Maroon Bells Scenic Byway, Breckenridge, Denver, Boulder, and Rocky Mountain National Park.
Check out the spectacular colors of Aspen’s Maroon Bells.
In 2021, the leaves will be at their most vibrant from September 20th to October 25th. The best way to see them is by taking a scenic drive through Maroon Bells Scenic Byway. Of course, you can also take in these fall colors on foot if you prefer not to drive!
Take a drive down to see all the changing leaves in Breckenridge.
Breckenridge is another one of the best spots to see fall leaves in Colorado before they disappear. Located just over an hour from Denver, there are plenty of things to do here that won’t cost you much at all! You can take a scenic drive through Frisco or Breckenridge and stop for Instagram-worthy pictures, or you can take in the views from a chairlift and enjoy some hot apple cider.
Drive through Denver and take in views of the beautiful red, orange, yellow, and brown leaves.
Denver is one of the best places in Colorado to see fall leaves change, and it’s also home to some of the most beautiful views. There are several different ways you can take in these leafy scenes while driving through Denver! For example, you can drive up Lookout Mountain for a panoramic view from high above the city, or you might prefer to go through Washington Park and check out the Denver Botanic Gardens.
Head up to Boulder for mountain vistas with an autumn backdrop.
Visit Rocky Mountain National Park for some scenic hikes that are perfect for leaf-peeping this time of year.
At an elevation of over ten thousand feet, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best places to see fall leaves in Colorado because of its variety and beauty! Aspen trees surround the area with their vibrant orange colors that are perfect for capturing on camera. Make your way up through Trail Ridge Road during prime leaf-peeping season, and make sure to stop by Moraine Park for a great view of the landscape.
Don’t feel like getting out of the car? Drive the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, Colorado’s oldest byway that starts in Estes Park and ends on the I-70 passing beautiful aspen groves mixed with Evergreens and other sites to stop and see. Combine this drive with some elk watching, and you’ll be set up with a day full of incredible sights!
Explore Golden Gate Canyon State Park, where you can hike along Fall Creek or enjoy other outdoor activities like fishing or picnicking near the creek during your visit.
Golden Gate State Park is a great place to see fall leaves in Colorado before they disappear. Located about an hour and a half from Denver, there are plenty of activities here that won’t cost you much at all! Hike alongside Fall Creek on the trails or take your picnic basket down for some grilling time by the creek. You can also drive through the park and enjoy beautiful views of Golden Gate Reservoir. Check out five great places to see fall colors in Golden for local favorites!
Escape the crowds and head to Red Feather Lakes, and drive down Deadman’s road.
Red Feather Lakes is one of the best places to see fall leaves in Colorado before they disappear. Located about an hour and a half outside Denver, this spot offers beautiful scenery with plenty of activities to do while you’re there! You can drive down Deadman’s Road for some impressive views or head over on foot if that’s more your style during this leaf-peeping season.
Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Colorado. Whether you want to take a drive through the mountains or check out some local foliage, there are so many different ways for everyone in your family to enjoy this iconic season! Making sure that no matter where you live in our state, there’s always something special waiting for you just around the corner. Here are 6 things we think every newcomer should know about living here – and what better time than right now?
