Colorado is steeped in amazing seasonal traditions, not the least of them being a trip up to the hills at the start of Fall to peep the changing leaves. Come September, Colorado is rich in yellows, oranges, and reds as the mountain leaves transition, with our state’s signature gold Aspen trees serving as the main event. Options abound for fall foliage drives; see the list below for some of the most iconic destinations, as well as some hidden gems that you won’t want to miss. Be sure and hit the road between mid-September and the end of October so as not to miss out on the beauty that is Colorado Fall.
- Peak to Peak Scenic Byway – Colorado’s oldest byway, this drive starts in Boulder and showcases views of the Continental Divide that can’t be matched. Though the byway is less than 60 miles, there are numerous stopping points along the route that offer their own unique vantage points, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Golden Gate State Park, Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests, and the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area.
- Trail Ridge Road – winding from Estes Park to Grand Lake is the most heavily traveled “highway to the sky.” Trail Ridge Road crests at 12,183 feet, making it an amazing vantage point for leaf peepers and photographers alike. As a bonus, it’s electric vehicle ready, so charge up and roll. The status of the road can change quickly, so check here before heading out and be sure to make a reservation, so you don’t miss out!
- Dallas Divide – if you are in Southwest Colorado, you won’t want to miss this epic fall drive. This unpaved route spans from Telluride to Ridgway, with amazing views of Mount Sneffels, the Sneffels Wilderness Area, and Wilson Peak.
- Buffalo Pass – this dirt road with an elevation of 10,295 ft, just west of Steamboat Springs, is lined with rows of glowing aspen groves. This mountain pass winds eight miles across the Continental Divide and Summit Lake. It offers hikes to the pristine Zirkel Wilderness Area’s Three Island Lake Trail, winding through coniferous forests and high meadows through glacial lakes and vistas.
- West Elk Loop – this byway touches three national forests, and the drive crosses diverse landscapes of meadows, rivers, canyons, and enormous aspen stands lit up in gold and orange. The 205-mile road circles the West Elk Mountains through Paonia, Gunnison, Crested Butte, and Carbondale. You won’t want to miss a photo opp at McClure pass with views on either side of the mountain corridor. If you have the chance, stop off at the intersection of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park with Morrow Point, Blue Mesa, and Crystal Lakes for an unbeatable spot for picnicking and sightseeing.
This list just barely scratches the surface of Mother Nature’s fall beauty in Colorado! No matter where you decide to go, be sure you are safe as you head out on your adventure. Let Addison Auto get your car fall-drive ready, and be sure to send us any photos you capture along the way.
