I think it is safe to say that fall is here even as we continue to have some days with temperatures in the high 80’s, the cool evenings and brisk mornings are letting us know the weather is changing. And it is just the weather changing, have you looked outside lately? The trees are all starting to change colors and if you have been watching the news or looking at your social media you have probably seen many beautiful pictures of the leaves changing all over the state. Colorado is known for our beautiful Aspen trees and the changing that takes place from the end of September into early October has many people heading to the mountains to see the incredible color transformations. It isn’t too late to catch these trees that turn into blazing fields of gold and below I have compiled a list of places to go visit as well as drives to take to see some of the best colors in the area.
Jump in the Car and Drive
1. Trail Ridge Road – U.S. Highway 34 between Estes Park and Granby traveling through and over the Rocky Mountain National Park is one for the books. The road rises all the way to 12,183 ft and has several scenic overlooks to take in.
2. Peak to Peak Highway – Colorado highways 119, 72 and 7 from Black Hawk to Estes Park has many spots to actually pull over and take in stunning views of the Continental Divide with several stands of colorful Aspens.
3. Boreas Pass between Como and Breckenridge – What used to be an old railroad bed is now a dirt road that offers phenomenal sightseeing of several Aspen groves.
Get out and Experience the Colors
1. Gunnison – This quant place is home to Kebler Pass, which boasts the largest aspen grove in North American. Start around Ohio Creek Road which passes some unique natural landscapes, including a series of abandoned ranch buildings, and enjoy some beautiful views.
2. Maroon Bells – The iconic Maroon Bells are two towering 14,000-ft mountains nestled into the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and are some of the most photographed peaks in North America. There are hiking trails a plenty so choose any and you are sure to find yourself lost in the golden Aspens.
3. Telluride – It is a little bit of a drive but Telluride is one of the most beautiful places in the state and the colors up there are unmatchable during the fall. Take the free gondola ride for an incredible aerial view of the yellow fields of trees spreading for miles.
It’s not too late to go on a drive or a hike to see the changing colors of fall and better to do it sooner than later, snow is just around the corner and has already been falling in the mountains! Make sure to grab a pumpkin muffin and your favorite hot drink for the road, happy fall everyone!
Photo By @NoahBergPhotography | Vail, CO