2024's Towns In Colorado That Come Alive In The Fall

Colorado is widely considered one of the most naturally beautiful places in the United States. Being largely covered by the Rocky Mountains and the Colorado Plateau, it is sought after by hikers and campers in the summer months and skiers in the winter. However, the Centennial State is also an idyllic destination in the fall. As the vast aspen forest begins to turn yellow and the cooling mountain air makes hiking more comfortable, head to the best small towns in Colorado that will come alive during your fall trip in 2024.

Crested Butte

Crested Butte is one of central Colorado’s top destinations for fall foliage peeping. Known as the "Wildflower Capital of Colorado" in summer, it transforms into an equally colorful landscape, filled with hues of gold and orange in the later months of the year. The town is surrounded by extensive aspen groves that light up the mountainsides around it, especially along Kebler Pass, a scenic drive popular with residents and visitors alike. You can also enjoy hiking trails such as the Snodgrass Trail in early fall before snow hits the ground, which offers sweeping views of the Elk Mountains.

You will also find much to do in town, whether it is at the Old West-themed Crested Butte Museum, which covers the area's early history, or going for a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or bars along Elk Ave before or after a long day outside.

Aspen

Aspen is synonymous with amazing outdoor scenery and skiing, and it is one of Colorado's most recognizable towns. The Maroon Bells, just outside the town, are among the most photographed mountain peaks in the US, especially as they are reflected in the clear waters of Maroon Lake surrounded by golden aspens in the fall.

For those looking to experience the foliage up close near these iconic mountains, the area has accessible hiking trails like the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail. For a less physically taxing excursion, Independence Pass, a high-altitude drive nearby, provides sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains right from your car.

Estes Park

Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, a mere hour and a half drive from Denver. Within the hugely popular park, trails like Bear Lake and Moraine Park present excellent ways for you to go hiking among the colorful foliage. Keep an eye out for the wildlife who call Rocky Mountain National Park home too, such as black bears, moose, and elk. Fall is also elk mating season, and Estes Park hosts the annual Elk Fest, where visitors can observe the animals and enjoy local festivities.

Historic landmarks in downtown Estes Park, like The Stanley Hotel, are also worth checking out. This ornate hotel is also allegedly the inspiration behind Stephen King's famous novel The Shining. The town's history can also be seen at the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center, the former home of the hotel's founder and one of Este's Park's earliest residents.

A drive along Trail Ridge Road just west of town, will take you along one of the highest paved roads in North America, and offers unparalleled views of the area's abundant aspens and deep mountain valleys.

Telluride

Telluride, nestled in a dramatic box canyon in the thick of Colorado's Rockies, becomes an autumn paradise when the forest of the surrounding San Juan Mountains begins to change color in late September. The town’s remote location enhances its appeal to those who truly want to go off the beaten path.

One of the most popular activities here is a ride on the gondola that runs between Telluride and the nearby municipality of Mountain Village. On the other hand, hiking trails such as the Jud Wiebe Trail presents excellent vantage points to witness the colorful aspen forests and snow-dusted peaks. For an unforgettable fall drive, the nearby San Juan Skyway showcases some of the state’s most beautiful vistas at many stops along the route as well.

Local events, like the Telluride Horror Show Film Festival, perfectly complement visits in October as Halloween draws near.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge, like many historic towns in Colorado, was founded as a mining community with an atmosphere that now draws outdoor enthusiasts from abroad in all seasons of the year. A hike along Boreas Pass Road or a scenic drive on the same route provides spectacular views of the changing foliage nearby and the Tenmile Range. There are numerous other trails around town too, including the relatively easy Aspen Alley Trail, which winds through an enchanting forest made up of aspen groves.

For a more relaxed experience, the Breckenridge Arts District hosts cultural activities and workshops. Breckenridge also hosts events like Oktoberfest in mid-September, where you can enjoy German food, beer, and live entertainment that will warm you up in the crisp mountain air.

Ouray

Sometimes called the "Switzerland of America," Ouray is a picturesque mountain town boasting stunning fall views in every direction. Located in the heart of the San Juan Mountains of southern Colorado, this town is surrounded by steep cliffs and dense aspen forests that turn brilliant shades of gold and orange in autumn.

The Million Dollar Highway, a scenic drive between Ouray and Silverton, is a must-do activity and offers some of the most dramatic fall foliage views in the state, with towering peaks and deep valleys ablaze with color. Nearby foot trails like the Perimeter Trail also allow visitors to explore Ouray’s natural beauty up close, with waterfalls, canyons, and the changing leaves to be discovered along the way. In town, Ouray Hot Springs provides a more relaxing way to enjoy the fall elements outdoors.

Enjoy Fall in Colorado in These Amazing Small Towns

With its vast mountain ranges, the Colorado Plateau and the majestic forests that turn into a palette of vibrant colors as 2024 comes to a close; Colorado is a state that ought to be seen as a prime fall destination. Better yet, you will be able to avoid the crowds of summer sightseers and the winter ski season. Whether you are looking for a quick escape from Denver or want an extended trip around the whole state, these six towns are highly recommended as either quick pit stops for supplies or as fun places that really come alive in autumn.