Top Scenic Drives in Colorado for Fall Foliage
Drive along these scenic routes in Colorado for beautiful color-changing leaves
Top Scenic Drives in Colorado for Fall Foliage
Colorado is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and there's no better time to experience its beauty than during the fall. As the leaves change color, the state transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a prime destination for scenic drives. Here are some of the top routes to explore Colorado’s fall foliage.
1. Trail Ridge Road
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park
Source Credit: Grand Country
Why It’s Special: Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States, offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The route reaches elevations over 12,000 feet, providing expansive vistas of the changing aspen groves and alpine tundra.
Highlights:
- Rainbow Curve Overlook: Offers panoramic views of the valley below.
- Alpine Visitor Center: A great spot to learn about the park and enjoy the scenery.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October.
2. San Juan Skyway
Location: Southwestern Colorado
Source Credit: Escape
Why It’s Special: This 236-mile loop takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Colorado. The San Juan Skyway traverses historic mining towns, majestic mountains, and the famous Million Dollar Highway.
Highlights:
- Ouray: Known as the "Switzerland of America," with its stunning mountain scenery.
- Telluride: A charming town surrounded by golden aspen groves.
Best Time to Visit: Mid to late October.
3. Guanella Pass Scenic Byway
Location: Georgetown to Grant, CO
Source Credit: TripSavvy
Why It’s Special: Guanella Pass Scenic Byway offers a relatively short but incredibly scenic drive. The road winds through lush forests, alpine meadows, and past crystal-clear streams.
Highlights:
- Mount Bierstadt: A popular 14er that offers hiking opportunities along the route.
- Clear Lake: A serene spot perfect for a picnic amidst the fall colors.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October.
4. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
Location: Estes Park to Central City, CO
Source Credit: Rocky Mountains Resort
Why It’s Special: As Colorado’s oldest scenic byway, the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway provides stunning views of the Continental Divide and passes through historic towns and lush forests.
Highlights:
- Golden Gate Canyon State Park: Offers a plethora of hiking trails with vibrant fall colors.
- Nederland: A quirky town with unique shops and dining options.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October.
5. Independence Pass
Location: Twin Lakes to Aspen, CO
Source Credit: U.S. News Travel
Why It’s Special: Independence Pass, part of Highway 82, is one of the highest paved passes in North America. The road offers dramatic views and winds through groves of aspen trees, which turn a brilliant gold in the fall.
Highlights:
- Twin Lakes: Beautiful lakes surrounded by fall foliage.
- Independence Ghost Town: A historic mining town with scenic ruins.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October.
6. Kebler Pass
Location: Crested Butte to Paonia, CO
Source Credit: Uncover Colorado
Why It’s Special: Kebler Pass is famous for its large aspen groves, some of the largest in North America. This unpaved road offers a true escape into nature with incredible fall colors.
Highlights:
- Kebler Pass Aspen Grove: A must-see for its sheer size and vibrant colors.
- Lost Lake: A serene spot for a hike and picnic.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October.
7. Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway
Location: Leadville to Aspen, CO
Source Credit: Uncover Colorado
Why It’s Special: This byway takes you over several high mountain passes, offering spectacular views of the Rockies and numerous opportunities to see wildlife and fall foliage.
Highlights:
- Leadville: The highest incorporated city in North America with rich mining history.
- Twin Lakes: Stunning alpine lakes with great hiking trails.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October.
Tips for Enjoying the Scenic Drives
Source Credit: Madison Kuhn
- Check Road Conditions: Some roads may close early due to snow, so always check conditions before you go.
- Start Early: To avoid the crowds and have the best lighting for photos, start your drive early in the morning.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and layers of clothing as temperatures can vary.
- Respect Nature: Stay on designated paths and take all trash with you to help preserve these beautiful areas.
Conclusion
Colorado’s scenic drives offer an unparalleled opportunity to witness the stunning transformation of fall foliage. Whether you're winding through high mountain passes or exploring lush valleys, these routes provide breathtaking views and memorable experiences. Pack your camera, plan your route, and embark on a fall adventure through the vibrant landscapes of Colorado. For more Colorado travel guides and information, check out this page!
