10 Best Places to See Colorado Fall Foliage
When autumn arrives in Colorado, the mountains and valleys transform into a vibrant landscape of golden aspens, fiery reds, and rustic oranges. With high elevations, scenic byways, and dense aspen groves, Colorado offers one of the most stunning fall foliage displays in the United States. Whether you’re driving through alpine passes or hiking among the trees, there’s no shortage of breathtaking places to take in the colors of the season.
Best Time to See Colorado Fall Foliage
Colorado’s fall foliage season varies by elevation and location. Here’s a general guideline for when and where to go:
- High elevations (8,000–10,000 feet): Mid to late September
- Mid elevations (6,000–8,000 feet): Late September to early October
- Lower elevations (below 6,000 feet): Early to mid-October
- Northern Colorado changes earlier than southern regions
- Weather conditions such as early frosts or drought can shift the peak by a week or more
Plan ahead, and aim for weekday visits to avoid crowds in popular areas!
1. Kebler Pass
Located near Crested Butte, Kebler Pass is home to one of the largest aspen groves in North America. The canopy of golden leaves stretches for miles along this scenic dirt road, creating a tunnel of color that’s perfect for both photographers and casual sightseers. The road is typically accessible by car from late spring through fall and reaches its peak color around the end of September.
2. Maroon Bells
Perhaps the most photographed location in Colorado during fall, the Maroon Bells near Aspen feature twin peaks rising above a reflective lake surrounded by thick aspen forests. The contrast of golden leaves against the rugged maroon-colored peaks is unforgettable. Because of its popularity, access is limited during peak foliage season, and visitors are encouraged to use shuttle services or arrive early.
3. Trail Ridge Road (Rocky Mountain National Park)
This high-elevation road winds through Rocky Mountain National Park and offers expansive views of the Continental Divide and alpine valleys. During fall, the lower elevations of the park come alive with brilliant colors, especially around Bear Lake and the Kawuneeche Valley. The road usually closes due to snow by mid-October, so the best time to visit is late September.
4. Guanella Pass
Just a short drive from Denver, Guanella Pass connects the towns of Georgetown and Grant. The route climbs to over 11,000 feet and passes through thick aspen groves and meadows with mountain backdrops. It’s a favorite for those looking for a quick fall escape close to the city, with peak color often arriving in mid to late September.
5. San Juan Skyway (Million Dollar Highway)
The San Juan Skyway is one of Colorado’s most scenic drives, and the stretch known as the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton is particularly dramatic. Towering cliffs, winding roads, and brilliant fall colors make this route a must during the fall season. Aspens line the steep mountain slopes, and the entire drive becomes a corridor of color during early October.
6. Cottonwood Pass
This pass between Buena Vista and Taylor Park rises to over 12,000 feet and provides incredible panoramic views of the Sawatch Range. The aspen groves on either side of the pass are especially vibrant in the fall, and the contrast between golden leaves and evergreen forests makes this drive a memorable experience. Visit in late September for the best colors.
7. Dallas Divide
Located west of Ridgway on Highway 62, Dallas Divide offers some of the most iconic fall views in Colorado. The scene of golden aspens rolling into the jagged peaks of the San Juan Mountains is a favorite among landscape photographers. The area reaches peak color in late September to early October and can be enjoyed from various roadside pull-offs.
8. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
This historic byway runs from Estes Park to Black Hawk and offers one of the most accessible fall foliage routes in the Front Range. Along the way, travelers will pass through groves of changing aspens, charming mountain towns, and scenic overlooks. Because of its elevation, the colors usually start earlier here, peaking around mid to late September.
9. Boreas Pass
Just outside of Breckenridge, Boreas Pass is a former railroad route that now serves as a picturesque dirt road lined with aspen trees. As you ascend the pass, you’re treated to sweeping views of the Tenmile Range and colorful valleys below. The pass is usually open through early October, and fall colors typically peak in the last weeks of September.
10. Flat Tops Scenic Byway
Located in northwest Colorado between Meeker and Yampa, the Flat Tops Scenic Byway winds through the Flat Tops Wilderness and showcases a lesser-known but equally stunning display of fall foliage. Vast aspen groves dominate the landscape here, and because of the high elevation, colors tend to peak a bit earlier, usually in mid to late September. It’s a quieter alternative to more crowded routes.
11. Crystal Mill (Bonus)
Tucked deep in the Elk Mountains near the town of Marble, Crystal Mill is one of Colorado’s most iconic and photogenic fall destinations. This historic wooden powerhouse, perched dramatically above the Crystal River, is surrounded by brilliant golden aspens and rugged cliffs that light up during peak foliage season. Reaching it requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle or a long hike or bike ride along a rough dirt road, but the payoff is a surreal autumn scene that feels like something out of a painting. For those willing to make the effort, it’s a fall foliage experience unlike any other in the state.
7 Hidden Gems for Colorado Fall Foliage Without the Crowds
While famous spots like Maroon Bells and Trail Ridge Road draw large crowds during peak foliage season, Colorado is full of quieter places where the fall colors are just as impressive—without the heavy traffic. Here are seven hidden gems to explore:
1. Ohio Pass
Located just south of Kebler Pass, Ohio Pass offers a more secluded drive through golden aspen groves, meadows, and mountain vistas.
2. Last Dollar Road
Between Telluride and Ridgway, this rugged backroad provides jaw-dropping views of Wilson Peak and colorful valleys without the busy highways.
3. Gold Camp Road
Near Colorado Springs, this historic gravel route winds through tunnels, cliffs, and forests of changing leaves—perfect for a peaceful drive close to the Front Range.
4. Buffalo Pass
Tucked behind Steamboat Springs, Buffalo Pass features dense aspen stands and high-alpine views with far fewer visitors than other Routt County trails.
5. La Plata Canyon
Outside of Durango, La Plata Canyon offers a scenic drive through a narrow valley filled with aspens. It’s often overlooked in favor of the Million Dollar Highway.
6. Cottonwood Lake Road
West of Buena Vista, this gravel road leads to a serene alpine lake surrounded by glowing aspens and towering peaks.
7. Fryingpan Road
Starting near Basalt, Fryingpan Road parallels a river and winds through colorful forested hills, ending at the secluded Ruedi Reservoir.
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7 Day Sample Colorado Fall Foliage Itinerary
This sample week-long itinerary combines popular highlights and hidden gems for a full-spectrum fall experience:
Day 1: Explore Maroon Bells and take a side trip along Fryingpan Road
Day 2: Drive Kebler Pass and Ohio Pass; overnight in Crested Butte
Day 3: Visit Crystal Mill via Marble; optionally explore La Plata Canyon
Day 4: Drive the San Juan Skyway including the Million Dollar Highway
Day 5: Explore Cottonwood Pass and Cottonwood Lake Road near Buena Vista
Day 6: Take the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway and explore Gold Camp Road
Day 7: Finish your trip with Boreas Pass, Buffalo Pass, or the Dallas Divide
Amazing Colorado Fall Foliage Photos
Packing List
- Layers (temperatures can range from 30°F mornings to 70°F afternoons)
- Waterproof jacket (rain or early snow is possible)
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
- Daypack with snacks, water, and camera
- Binoculars for wildlife and distant views
- Printed maps or GPS (many scenic roads have no cell service)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (high elevation sun is intense)
- Thermal gloves and beanie for early morning outings
- Tripod and filters if you’re into fall photography
Where to Stay
Here are a few ideal base towns that offer great access to fall foliage and charming mountain vibes:
- Aspen: Close to Maroon Bells, Fryingpan Road, and Independence Pass (Check hotels)
- Crested Butte: Central to Kebler Pass, Ohio Pass, and remote alpine drives (Check hotels)
- Ouray/Ridgway: Ideal for exploring the San Juan Skyway, Last Dollar Road, and Dallas Divide (Check hotels)
- Buena Vista: Near Cottonwood Pass, Cottonwood Lake, and Collegiate Peaks (Check hotels)
- Steamboat Springs: Great access to Buffalo Pass and the Flat Tops Scenic Byway (Check hotels)
- Estes Park: Base for Trail Ridge Road and the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Check hotels)
- Leadville or Breckenridge: Convenient to Boreas Pass and Twin Lakes (Check hotels)
More fall foliage road trips
Final Thoughts
Fall in Colorado is a magical time when the state transforms into a glowing tapestry of color. While iconic destinations offer unforgettable views, exploring the hidden backroads and quieter corners can provide an even more intimate experience. From dramatic alpine passes to peaceful lakeside forests, this guide offers everything you need to plan the perfect foliage getaway, complete with crowd-free gems, a week-long itinerary, and packing tips. Whether you’re photographing golden aspens or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air, Colorado fall foliage is a seasonal treasure worth chasing.
