Fall is the only time of year when Mother Nature changes her features so drastically, and what a sight it is! The entire state of Colorado transforms from emerald green into russet and rustic hues, bringing visitors and locals outside to enjoy the vibrant aspens.
Why do leaves change color in the fall?
Shorter days and lower temperatures lead to these vibrant fall colors due to changes in chlorophyll–the contributor to leaves’ green colors. With less sunlight throughout the day, the chlorophyll reduces and leaves orange and yellow colors. Sugars in the leaves also can cause darker colors.
When will Colorado’s leaves change?
Leaf peepers are in for an exciting fall, with aspens seeming especially healthy this season. SmokyMountains.com creates a map to predict fall colors throughout the state. For the 2024 season, this map suggests that Colorado’s colors will begin the third week in September and remain vibrant through this same week in October. At higher altitudes, peak foliage may be as early as mid-September, with Denver and lower altitudes areas peaking in late September or October. This also varies throughout the state’s mountain ranges, with northern Colorado’s Mosquito and Tenmile Ranges changing first and the southern San Juan’s peaking in October.
Where can I see Colorado’s fall leaves?
No matter where you find yourself in Colorado in September or October this year, there are options to get outside and explore amidst the fall Colors.
Denver
Denver’s leaves will start changing in mid or late September, reaching their peak in mid-October or later. During this time, we recommend visiting one of Denver’s many parks for leaf peeping opportunities. Denver’s City Park is a perfect place to catch the leaves. Denver’s City Park offers views of the mountains and includes two lakes, the Denver Zoo, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, sports fields, running paths, and playgrounds. With so much to do, this park is an ideal place to spend an afternoon or full day basking amidst the leaves.
Denver’s Botanical Gardens also offers another opportunity to experience fall’s leaves in the city. The York Street location hosts over 50 gardens on 24 acres, including native Rocky Mountain plants, tropical gardens, and other international gardens. The gardens also offer events this fall 2024, including the Ghosts in the Gardens and Glow at the Gardens at Denver’s York St. location and a Corn Maze, Hop (beer) Festival, and Pumpkin Festival at the Chatfield Farms location just outside of the city.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is an exciting town located on the Yampa River. Known as Ski Town USA and Bike Town USA, Steamboat is renowned for its outdoor opportunities, yet it also feels like a place one can relax in. In the fall, every trail and road in and out of this town offers astounding mountain backdrops in glowing oranges and bright yellows.
Rabbit Ears Pass is one of the most popular routes between Steamboat and Kremmling, crossing the Continental Divide and providing stunning views the entire way at over 10,000 feet. Its name derives from views of distinctive peaks, with formations resembling rabbit ears. Biking in Steamboat is another fun activity to enjoy the fall colors. Ride downhill at the Steamboat bike park, explore the area’s dirt, gravel, and paved paths, or check out the Steamboat brew trail to 3 different breweries. Once you have had enough of the chilly weather, don’t forget to stop by one of the nearby Strawberry Hot Springs to relax. With pools built directly into the environment, enjoy the steam and as you immerse yourself in nature.
Kremmling
Colorado is known for accessible outdoor activities, and it really does not disappoint, especially during fall. One unique fall activity is a half-day or full-day guided scenic float trip on the Upper Colorado River. Paddle in a raft with your group, your own inflatable kayak, or even a stand up paddle board. This is a fun way to get out on the water and enjoy fall’s colors from an entirely different perspective! With the Colorado River’s vibrant diversity, you may also spot wildlife such as beavers, waterfowl, hawks, and eagles.
Read more about the best October rafting trip in Colorado.
Georgetown and Idaho Springs
In Georgetown, you have the opportunity to view the fall colors from a historical steam train, appreciating Colorado’s scenery and the area’s rich mining history. Step aboard the Georgetown Railroad train in Idaho Springs and into a time machine; the smell of burning coal and fresh mountain air gives you a certain sense of 19th-century nostalgia.
Another unique and exciting way to appreciate the autumn leaves is from the trees on AVA’s Idaho Springs’ Cliffside Zipline or Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata courses! Fly high above Idaho Springs and Chicago Creek or climb into the mountainside, surrounded by the stunning leaves.
Our last pick in this area is the St. Mary’s Glacier. Hike a short 1.6 miles to a beautiful glacier lake, surrounded by fall foliage and greeted by sunning views at the top. For a short hike, this trail offers some of the best views in the area.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is another gem for any outdoor enthusiast looking for an exciting leaf-peeping adventure in fall of 2024. This time of year is perfect for exploring the area by bike, with opportunities for every rider to enjoy the outdoors. The place is home to beautiful rust-colored aspen groves and offers hundreds of miles of biking trails for all skill levels. The Summit County Recreational Path system offers family-friendly biking for miles, with opportunities to ride around the Dillon Reservoir.
If you are looking to catch some technical turf, I would travel the Flume Trail. A trail not for the faint of heart, this single-track has a few challenging bridges and steep cliffs along the way but boasts some humbling views of the Tenmile Range. Be sure to check out our favorite local bike shop, Breckenridge Ski & Sport to pick up your bike rental and get started!
Vail
Vail in the Fall is an unforgettable destination, with the Gondola ride offering astounding views. The ride up is about 15-20 minutes giving you plenty of time to check out the breathtaking foliage and catch your breath! The top then boasts numerous activities, including numerous hiking trails and food with a view. If you are more of an adrenaline seeker, bike on Vail’s trail network, or downhill from Vail Resort’s gondola (through the end of September), or take a jeep tour and explore the fall foliage.
Aspen
Another unforgettable way to experience the Rockies in the fall is a stop at Maroon Bells, just 10 miles from Aspen. These two distinctive peaks are some of the most visited and photographed natural attractions in Colorado and are especially stunning in the Fall. The Bells themselves are made of 2 colossal peaks that rise well above the surrounding wilderness.
The area offers six trailheads, including hikes ranging from easy walks to difficult 14ers. Visitors can additionally explore Maroon Lake, the breathtaking base of the Maroon Bells. Before your trip, be sure to check out reservation and parking information as most locations require a permit.
Now it’s time to start exploring Colorado this fall. Plan your Colorado destination, and book a scenic float trip, zipline, or Via Ferrata adventure to make the most of your fall experience.
Rosa is AVA’s Copywriting Marketing Specialist. When she’s not writing about Colorado’s great outdoors, she’s in them. Her main hobby is trail running, but she can also be found biking, camping, and perfecting s’mores over a fire. She loves Colorado’s mountains, but always looks forward to adventuring in new places. Her next big adventure is Italy’s Dolomites!
