As fall sweeps across Colorado, it becomes a staple of Colorados to go out looking for yellow. Hikers and sightseers looking to experience the stunning autumn colors set out to the mountains! Whether you’re hiking or taking a scenic drive, this guide covers the best trails and driving passes to experience Colorado’s vibrant fall colors.
Since being out West in 2015, Fall has been one of my favorite times. In Colorado, catching the yellow aspen leaves is a staple of being out here. Whether you are driving or hiking through them, it is such a beautiful thing to experience.
Top Fall Hiking Trails in Colorado
Brainard Lake – Indian Peaks Wilderness
For a combination of alpine views and fall foliage, head to Brainard Lake. The Lake Isabelle Trail is a moderate 4.4-mile hike offering magnificent views of peaks surrounded by aspens. It’s ideal for intermediate hikers looking to enjoy fall colors in the Indian Peaks Wilderness.
The Crags – Pikes Peak Region
For a more unique landscape, try The Crags Trail. This 4.8-mile out-and-back trail features dramatic rock formations surrounded by golden aspens. A moderately challenging hike, it’s a favorite for those seeking stunning contrasts between autumn colors and rugged terrain.
Lizard Head Trail – Telluride
Located near Telluride, the Lizard Head Trail is a moderate 7-mile out-and-back hike offering stunning views of Lizard Head Peak, surrounded by colorful aspen groves. The rugged beauty of this trail makes it a fall favorite.
Emerald Lake Trail – Rocky Mountain National Park
The Emerald Lake Trail is a 3.2-mile hike offering breathtaking fall views. It’s a great option for beginners, as the trail is well-maintained and offers stunning scenery with mountain lakes surrounded by autumn colors.
Boreas Pass Trail – Breckenridge
This 6.2-mile moderate trail starts just outside Breckenridge, with stunning views of golden aspens and mountain vistas. It’s also a great spot for leaf-peeping by car, but for a more intimate experience, take the trail on foot.
Herman Gulch Trail– Dillon
The Herman Gulch Trail is a favorite among Colorado hikers, especially in the fall when the landscape bursts with golden aspens. Located near Dillon, this 6.4-mile round trip hike offers a moderately challenging climb, leading to breathtaking alpine views. At the summit, you’re rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Continental Divide, framed by vibrant fall foliage. The trail is dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot for both solo hikers and adventure dogs.
Scenic Drives with Fall Foliage in Colorado
1. Kebler Pass – Crested Butte
For one of the most impressive fall foliage displays, head to Kebler Pass, home to one of the largest aspen groves in North America. The scenic drive offers stunning panoramic views of endless golden aspens. For those wanting a short hike, pull off at one of the many trailheads along the pass.
2. Guanella Pass – Georgetown
Located near Denver, Guanella Pass offers a beautiful drive with easy trail options for those looking to stretch their legs. The 3.4-mile Summit Hike is beginner-friendly and offers expansive views of aspens. This drive is perfect for a day trip to experience fall colors without venturing too far from the city.
3. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
This 55-mile stretch is one of Colorado’s oldest scenic byways, running from Estes Park to Central City. As you drive, you’ll pass through vibrant aspen groves with plenty of opportunities to stop and hike. For a family-friendly experience, stop by Brainard Lake or one of the nearby trails.
4. Independence Pass – Aspen to Twin Lakes
This scenic drive connects Aspen to Twin Lakes and is renowned for its vibrant aspen trees lining the road. The winding pass offers breathtaking views of the Sawatch Range and fall foliage at every turn. At 12,095 feet, it’s one of the highest paved passes in Colorado, making for an unforgettable autumn drive.
5. Cottonwood Pass – Buena Vista
Running from Buena Vista to Almont, Cottonwood Pass offers stunning views of both the Sawatch Range and Gunnison National Forest. In the fall, the valleys fill with golden aspens, making it a perfect route for leaf-peeping. It’s an easy day trip from Denver or Colorado Springs.
6. McClure Pass – Carbondale
Located on Colorado’s Western Slope, McClure Pass offers stunning views of the Elk Mountains and abundant aspen groves in the fall. The drive between Carbondale and Paonia is relatively short, but the vibrant autumn colors make it a must-see during peak foliage season.
