The Greatest Places in Colorado to see Fall Colors 🍁

Colorado in the fall is pure magic. As summer fades, our mountains and valleys turn into a sea of gold, orange, and red, thanks to the shimmering aspen trees and crisp mountain air. If you’re looking for the best places to experience the breathtaking fall foliage, here are some must-visit spots across the state.

1. Kenosha Pass

Located just 90 minutes from Denver, Kenosha Pass is one of the most famous destinations for leaf-peeping in Colorado. With its wide-open meadows and dense groves of aspens, this area is a photographer’s dream. The easy section of the Colorado Trail here is perfect for a crisp fall hike among golden leaves.

2. Maroon Bells – Aspen

It’s hard to beat the iconic Maroon Bells, near Aspen, for fall colors. The contrast of the snow-dusted peaks, reflective lakes, and bright aspen groves is one of the most photographed scenes in Colorado. Early morning is the best time to go—when the lake is still and crowds are lighter.

3. Guanella Pass

This scenic byway between Georgetown and Grant offers a winding drive with sweeping mountain views and thick clusters of aspens. At just over an hour from Denver, it’s a perfect day trip. The higher elevation also means colors change early, so aim for mid-to-late September.

4. San Juan Mountains – Ouray, Telluride, & Silverton

For a truly jaw-dropping fall road trip, head to the San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado. The Million Dollar Highway (between Ouray and Silverton) is lined with golden aspens set against rugged peaks. Telluride’s gondola ride is another unique way to soak in the views from above.

5. Boreas Pass – Breckenridge

This historic pass just outside Breckenridge offers a stunning drive along a dirt road lined with aspens. You’ll enjoy sweeping mountain vistas, old railroad remnants, and endless shades of gold. It’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

6. Cottonwood Pass – Buena Vista to Almont

Connecting Buena Vista with the Gunnison Valley, Cottonwood Pass is a leaf-lover’s paradise. The winding road climbs through thick aspen forests before opening up to high alpine views. Pair your trip with a soak at Cottonwood Hot Springs for the ultimate Colorado fall day.

7. Rocky Mountain National Park

RMNP offers a mix of high alpine tundra and stunning aspen groves in the lower valleys. The drive along Trail Ridge Road gives you a bird’s-eye view of the fall transition. Bonus: September is also prime time for elk bugling, making it an unforgettable experience.

Tips for the Best Experience

• Timing is everything. Colors peak at different times depending on elevation—typically mid-September in the high country and early October in lower elevations.

• Go early or late in the day. Not only is the lighting more magical, but you’ll also avoid the biggest crowds.

• Layer up. Colorado fall days can swing from sunny and warm to chilly mountain air in just hours.

✨ Final Thoughts

Fall in Colorado is a short but spectacular season. Whether you’re taking a scenic drive, hiking among the golden aspens, or sipping coffee in a mountain town surrounded by color, you’ll be reminded why autumn here is so special. Grab your camera, plan a day trip, and immerse yourself in one of nature’s most beautiful shows.