Colorado is one of the few states nationwide that offers four seasons. While each one has its benefits and drawbacks, fall is a fan favorite. One of the biggest reasons autumn is so awe-inspiring in the Rockies is that the leaves change from their signature summer green to yellow, red, orange, and tan hues.
If you’re looking for a road trip that embraces this trippy tree experience, or you’re looking to grasp at the straws of sunshine before winter rears its head, there are tons of places to choose from, including the following:
Telluride
Telluride has a well-earned reputation as one of the most breathtaking towns in Colorado, and it’s prettiest in the fall. Its location allows road-trippers to make a loop from Avon, ensuring they don’t see the same scenery twice and winding through mountains and cities. If you want a bird’s-eye view of the tapestry of color changing on the trees, take advantage of the free gondola in Telluride and leaf-peep in style.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is the quintessential summer-time escape, but the park puts on a show come fall. It’s among the best places in the state to see changing leaves and is filled with photo opts and Instagram posts just waiting to happen. If you opt for hiking or biking, beware of increased animal activity as bears stock up on their groceries before hibernation. Consider a can of bear spray as a precaution.
Top of the Rockies
The Top-of-the-Rockies drive goes from Aspen to Leadville to Copper Mountain. It crosses the Continental Divide and follows the Arkansas River, winding through mining camps, past lakes, and along Mount Elbert. Full of small towns with antique shops and Victorian architecture, this 75-mile drive is an excellent choice for those who want to experience Mother Nature's and humankind's beauty.
San Juan Skyway
The San Juan Skyway is full of cliffs, dramatic scenery, and spectacular colors, and the San Juan National Forests are also full of spectacular colors. It passes through the most magical mountain towns of the Rockies, including Telluride, Durango, and Ouray. It’s a wondrous route if you’re visiting Durango or Mesa Verde National Park.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs proves that the mountains are just as cool in warm weather as in cold weather. Not only is the area lush with orange, yellow, and red Aspen leaves in the fall, but it’s also packed with loads to do. From hiking to biking, trail running to tubing to soaking in the hot springs, outdoor opportunities spring eternal.
It’s easy to fall for fall in Colorado. Whether you opt to go for a scenic drive or hike a majestic mountain, there’s plenty of autumn adventure that awaits.
The Piedmont Apartments in Avon, Colorado offers luxurious, modern homes for residents that blend privacy with epic views of the Rocky Mountains. Contact us today to learn more about mountain town living in our picturesque apartments.