1. Trail Ridge Road (Rocky Mountain National Park)
- Best time: Mid-September to early October
At 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the U.S. As you drive through the park, you’ll be treated to views of aspens turning gold and alpine tundra. Higher elevations start to change by mid-September, making this an early and dramatic display.
2. Maroon Bells (Aspen)
- Best time: Mid-September to late September
The Maroon Bells are iconic Colorado peaks, and when surrounded by changing aspens, they become even more stunning. Mid-to-late September is the ideal time to visit, as the leaves reflect in Maroon Lake, creating a picture-perfect scene. Pro tip: Plan your trip around a musical festival and enjoy the sights and sounds.
3. Kebler Pass (Crested Butte)
- Best time: Mid-September to early October
Home to one of the largest aspen groves in North America, Kebler Pass offers a spectacular show of fall colors. The foliage here tends to last longer, so plan to visit from mid-September through early October. Bonus: Plan to stop by the Secret Stash and try their award winning pizza-The Notorious Fig. You won’t be disappointed!
4. San Juan Skyway (Durango to Telluride)
- Best time: Late September to early October
This 233-mile loop through the rugged San Juan Mountains offers a mix of brilliant fall colors and panoramic mountain views. Late September through early October is the perfect time to explore this area, with leaves turning in the lower valleys while higher peaks offer fresh snowcaps. You could even take a Jeep Tour to add some adventure.
5. Guanella Pass (Georgetown)
- Best time: Mid-September to early October
For those seeking fewer crowds and stunning views, Guanella Pass is a great option. The vibrant aspen groves that line the road near Mount Bierstadt make this a perfect mid-September to early October drive.
6. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Estes Park to Black Hawk)
- Best time: Mid-September to early October
As Colorado’s oldest scenic byway, this drive offers a fantastic mix of pine forests and aspens, with sweeping views of the Front Range. The foliage typically peaks from mid-September to early October.
7. Dallas Divide (Ridgway)
- Best time: Late September to early October
The Dallas Divide offers expansive views of the Sneffels Range, with bright yellow aspens providing a brilliant contrast to the snow-capped peaks. Late September to early October is the ideal time to visit for photographers and nature lovers alike.
8. Buffalo Pass (Steamboat Springs)
- Best time: Late September to early October
Buffalo Pass is another hidden gem with fewer visitors. The aspen groves here are known for their vibrant colors, with leaves peaking in late September and extending into early October.
9. Boreas Pass (Breckenridge)
- Best time: Mid-September to early October
This historic railroad route turned scenic byway offers a peaceful fall drive with aspen groves and high-elevation views. The leaves typically peak mid-to-late September, making it a perfect weekend escape.
10. Golden Gate Canyon State Park
- Best time: Mid-September to early October
For those closer to Denver, Golden Gate Canyon State Park provides a fantastic fall getaway. The park’s many hiking trails are surrounded by aspens, and the foliage tends to peak mid-September through the first week of October.
The changing leaves in Colorado offer a spectacular display of nature’s beauty and are one of the many reasons people fall in love with this state. Whether you’re taking a scenic drive, exploring hiking trails, or simply enjoying a mountain view from your home, the fall season is the perfect time to immerse yourself in Colorado’s vibrant landscapes.
If you’re looking for a home where you can enjoy these views year-round, or considering a move to Colorado, feel free to reach out. We’d love to help you find your perfect place amidst the beauty of the Rockies.