9 Top Places To Visit In Colorado This Fall

Colorado transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors each fall, drawing visitors from all over to marvel at its stunning landscapes. With vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow blanketing the mountains and valleys, it's the perfect time to embark on a scenic adventure. Peak fall colors typically arrive between late September and mid-October, making this window the ideal time to explore the Centennial State’s outdoor splendor. From rugged mountain lookouts to family-friendly pumpkin patches, here are nine must-visit destinations this fall in Colorado.

Rocky Mountain National Park

One of the most beautiful parks in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park offers some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the state. The park's dense forests of aspens turn a brilliant gold, creating an enchanting contrast against the evergreen pines. For panoramic views, take a drive along Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest continuous paved roads in North America. This road showcases sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks framed by autumn colors.

Hikers can enjoy 350 miles of hiking trails. Explore hikes through Bear Lake, Glacier Gorge, and Sprague Lake, where shimmering reflections of red, orange, and yellow foliage enhance the fall scene. Visitors might also catch glimpses of elk during the rutting season, making the trip even more memorable. Don’t forget to stop by Moraine Park or the Kawuneeche Valley for excellent wildlife viewing and stunning landscape photos.

Maroon Bells

Maroon Bells, just outside Aspen, is arguably the most photographed spot in Colorado, and for good reason. The Bells refer to two peaks in the Elk Mountains, Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak. During the fall, the twin peaks are framed by a sea of golden treetops, creating a stunning reflection on the calm surface of Maroon Lake. This visual symphony of colors is a dream for photographers, making early mornings and late afternoons the best times to capture the perfect shot. Accessible by shuttle bus, this part of the White River National Forest remains peaceful and less crowded during the fall months. Visitors can take the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail for deeper immersion in nature or venture on longer hikes like the Crater Lake Trail. The brightly colored trees contrast beautifully with the rugged peaks, creating a quintessential autumn scene that is hard to beat. Just be sure to check the shuttle schedule and parking requirements before visiting.

Guanella Pass

Guanella Pass is one of Colorado’s most accessible scenic byways, connecting the historic town of Georgetown with Grant. The drive, which takes about an hour, meanders through thick forests, providing a mesmerizing palette of yellows, oranges, and even hints of red. There are numerous pull-offs along the way, so visitors can stop and soak in the views or explore short trails leading to hidden lakes and meadows. The summit, perched at over 11,600 feet, offers sweeping vistas of Mount Bierstadt, a popular peak that attracts climbers throughout the fall season. Early morning drives might reward visitors with sightings of local wildlife, including bighorn sheep and elk. Pack a picnic and take advantage of the overlooks to enjoy the crisp mountain air and unparalleled fall beauty.

Crested Butte

Known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte transforms into a golden paradise in the fall, with colorful foliage painting the surrounding hillsides. The drive along Kebler Pass, which connects Crested Butte to the town of Paonia, is a must-do during the autumn months. The pass is home to one of the most extensive aspen groves in North America, and the vibrant foliage creates a tunnel-like effect, making it an enchanting route for a fall road trip.

Aside from scenic drives, Crested Butte offers a variety of ways to immerse yourself in the fall landscape. Visitors can hike popular trails such as Snodgrass Mountain, which provides stunning vistas of Mt. Crested Butte framed by golden foliage. For mountain biking enthusiasts, trails like the Lower Loop offer a mix of scenery and terrain, perfect for soaking in the crisp autumn air. Those looking for a unique perspective can even take guided horseback tours through the forests and open meadows.

Autumn also brings seasonal festivities, including the Crested Butte Film Festival, local art walks, and bustling farmers' markets. These events showcase local produce, crafts, and culinary treats, ensuring there’s plenty to do after a day of leaf-peeping.

Estes Park

Estes Park serves as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, making it a prime destination for fall foliage enthusiasts. Each autumn, the surrounding landscape bursts into shades of gold and amber as leaves change color, contrasting beautifully with the evergreen pines. Peak fall colors in this area generally appear from late September to early October, offering a spectacular backdrop for scenic drives, hikes, and picnics. The iconic Trail Ridge Road starts just outside Estes Park and leads to stunning overlooks with panoramic views of the fall landscape.

Estes Park is also known for its abundant wildlife, especially elk, which can often be seen roaming in the open meadows during the fall. The annual Elk Fest kicks off the fall season with hundreds of elk migrating down to the valley, filling the meadows with their distinct bugling calls. The Elk Fest celebrates this natural phenomenon with guided tours, educational exhibits, live music, and local food vendors. Visitors can also participate in activities like bugling competitions and Native American music and dance performances.

Even after the festival, visitors can still hear the haunting, bugling calls of elk during their rutting season, making for a truly unique autumn experience. After a day of exploring, visitors can enjoy the town’s charming shops, local eateries, and seasonal events, like farmers' markets and craft fairs. With its blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm, Estes Park captures the essence of a perfect Colorado fall getaway.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Though not known for traditional fall foliage, Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a unique autumn experience. Cooler temperatures make it more comfortable to explore the massive dunes, which rise over 750 feet and provide a surreal, otherworldly landscape. Nearby, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains showcase groves that turn a vibrant gold, offering a stark contrast to the dunes' tan peaks. Hiking, sandboarding, and sledding are popular activities, and those looking to extend their adventure can explore Medano Creek’s trails or head into the nearby mountains. Autumn nights are perfect for stargazing, and the park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park. Whether you’re there for the sand, the stars, or the foliage, this destination provides an unforgettable blend of nature’s best displays.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Experience the beauty of fall in Colorado from a different perspective aboard the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This vintage steam train journey takes you through the rugged San Juan Mountains (between the towns of Durango and Silverton), passing through dense forests that glow with brilliant shades of gold and orange in the fall. The train ride, which follows the Animas River, allows passengers to sit back, relax, and watch the scenery unfold as it weaves through canyons and along cliff edges. For families, the Pumpkin Patch Express offers a fun, festive experience with activities like hayrides, face painting, and pumpkin picking. With open-air cars, the train provides plenty of opportunities to take in the fresh mountain air and capture photos of the vibrant fall foliage.

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs, known for its laid-back vibe and stunning mountain views, is a fantastic fall destination. The town is surrounded by rolling hills covered in trees that turn a bright yellow in the fall, especially along Rabbit Ears Pass and Buffalo Pass. Visitors can hike to Fish Creek Falls, which becomes a prime spot for viewing autumn colors and enjoying the tranquil sounds of the waterfall. Steamboat Springs is also home to the Yampa River Botanic Park, where a stroll through colorful gardens offers a more peaceful way to enjoy the season. Autumn festivals, farmers' markets, and harvest events fill the weekends, offering local produce, crafts, and seasonal treats. It’s a place where visitors can fully immerse themselves in the simple pleasures of fall, from crisp mountain air to the crunch of leaves underfoot.

Telluride

Nestled in a box canyon, Telluride is stunning any time of year, but it reaches peak beauty in the fall. The town is enveloped by a blanket of aspen groves that glow with rich hues, set against the rugged peaks of the San Juan Mountains. For an unforgettable view, hop on the free gondola that connects Telluride with Mountain Village. This aerial ride offers breathtaking vistas of the valley below, with the town’s iconic waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls, visible in the distance. Visitors can also explore trails like the Jud Wiebe Trail, which provides elevated views of the town and surrounding foliage. Fall in Telluride is marked by the popular Blues & Brews Festival, where guests can enjoy live music, craft beer, and the perfect autumn atmosphere.

Conclusion

Colorado’s fall season is a feast for the senses, offering dazzling displays of color, crisp mountain air, and countless outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking to a scenic lookout, attending a fall festival, or simply taking a leisurely drive through tree-filled valleys, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the state’s autumn beauty. From the idyllic small towns to the fantastic natural wonders, Colorado is an amazing destination for those looking to take in the splendor of fall.