As summer slowly comes to a close, leaves on certain trees
have already begun shedding their green cloaks to don a more autumnal color
pallet. There’s nothing quite like witnessing a mountainside ablaze with yellow
Aspen trees, framed by lush evergreens, glowing in the golden setting sun. Fortunately,
Colorado is rife with vistas, lookouts, and winding roads that take
leaf-peepers to truly beautiful scenery. Here are some of the best modes and
locations to see the leaves change this fall.
On a Scenic Hike
Head south and west to catch the magic of a mid-September to
early-October shift from green to yellow. Crested Butte, Telluride, and Gunnison
all offer secluded, lesser visited trails than the I-70 corridor provides. Spend
the weekend camping in these spectacular Colorado locations and plan to hike at
these awesome trails.
Through-Hike Aspen to Crested Butte
These famous ski towns are separated by a short 11 miles
over Maroon Pass, but are approximately 100 miles apart
when traveling by vehicle. Leave early to hike this beautiful route and traipse
through open meadows in the valley of aspen-covered mountains. Numerous shuttle
companies will take you back to your vehicle for a small fee, leaving you to
look out the window and soak up even more fall views.
Bear Creek Canyon
Spend the weekend in Telluride embracing all the autumn
feels. This cozy mountain town comes alive each season in a whole new way. Hike
Bear Creek Canyon to explore protected land within the Telluride Land Trust.
Enjoy peace and quiet by getting an early start.
From the Sky
For a memorable mountain date or to celebrate a special
occasion, book a scenic trip in the air. Take a helicopter ride through the Royal Gorge and embrace the thrill of
zipping through steep canyons while taking in the sweeping views of 13k and 14k
peaks, covered in yellow leaves. Or, for a quiet and majestic experience, pile
in a hot air balloon basket and quietly slip along ridge lines.
Driving Over Mountain Passes
Head to Boreas Pass
or Kebler Pass for truly breathtaking views of bright yellow aspen leaves topping
stark white trunks. Kebler connects Crested Butte to Paonia – another awesome mountain town
known for its unique wineries. Take Highway 10 from Como to Breckenridge and
pass in the shadow of Boreas Mountain. Stop along this quiet road and snap
photos of scenic ridges and valleys colored gold.
From a Train Car
Colorado’s numerous railroads offer a new way to explore the
mountains. Fall is the perfect time for an open-air train ride, like the one in
Georgetown. The Georgetown Loop Railroad winds passengers past old mining encampments and through the
beautiful valley floor nestled between soaring mountains.
The Piedmont Apartments places residents in the lap of some of Colorado’s most epic
terrain. Vail, Beaver Creek, Aspen, and the
surrounding towns offer great leaf peeping throughout the fall. For a safe and
fun getaway, head to our state’s other wonderful mountain towns for a change of
season and scenery.