Viewing the Fall Colors in Colorado’s Mountain Towns

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. 

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