One of the best CO seasons is upon us- Fall! Forget for a moment the pumpkin spice lattes, and focus in on what has always been the true harbinger of fall- the gorgeous transformation of leaves throughout the state.
Fall officially began on Tuesday the 22nd of September, which means we’re going into prime season for leaf peeping drives. And what more fun way to both socially distance with the family and/or friends while enjoying the best of Colorado with a drive through the Rocky Mountain to catch the spectacular show put on by the fall foliage?
It’s All in the Timing- there isn’t one particular date on the calendar when the CO leaves start to change colors, and it can be a challenge to hit the apex. Due to the extreme draught we’ve had in CO, experts are predicting that the pinnacle of leaf magic could happen 4-8 days earlier than usual. In fact, many of the areas just outside of Denver and the central region are already seeing changes and should be peaking through the end of September. Head a little farther south to catch the brilliant red, orange, and brown hues in the southern part of CO through mid-October.
Hit the Road
It’s not too hard to find beautiful drives outside of Denver, but locals claim that these are some of the best. If you’re aiming for later in September, Crested Butte has some of the most iconic fall foliage in the state. Check out Kebler Pass, Ohio Pass, Brush Creek, or the West Elk Loop.
Dallas Divide and Lizard Head Pass: Begin your journey in the town of Ridgway. Head west on Colorado 62 over Dallas Divide. Lining the route are unimpeded views of the Sneffels Range, an apron of aspens at its feet. At Placerville, head southeast toward Telluride on Colorado 145. All the way to Lizard Head Pass you’ll drive through dense groves of white-barked aspens with panoramas of Wilson Peak.
If you’ve got the time, take a weekend away to Steamboat and choose a couple of these scenic drives while you’re there: Buffalo Pass, Rabbit Ears Pass, Highway 131, or a trip through North Routt County. (And don’t forget to stop at my all-time favorite hotsprings, Strawberry Park Hot Springs).
Colorful trails
If you’re feeling you’d like to social distance on foot, you can experience Colorado’s brilliant fall colors a little slower on a hike. Backpacking the Maroon Bells is something many Coloradans have on their bucket list and timing it for peak leaf viewing only enhances the incredible experience. If you prefer to explore on two wheels, Marshall Pass along the continental divide or The 401 near Crested Butte offer unbeatable views.
