Wondering Where YOU Should See The Colorado Leaves This Year?

One of Colorado's greatest physical features is her aspens. This year promises to be extra spectacular because we have had so much rain. 

​If you pick the perfect time and location you are bound to have a memorable adventure. Here are a few of our favorite picks (click on each link to learn more): 

1. Aspen Adventures: Explore the town of Aspen. Take a family hike along easy trails like Maroon Lake Scenic Trail Independence Pass, and Castle Creek Road.  
2. Rocky Mountain Magic: Visit Rocky Mountain National Park and embark on a scavenger hunt for leaves of different colors. The park's Visitor Centers often have Junior Ranger programs for kids and if you're on the Estes Park side, be sure to check out The Autumn Gold Festival or Elk Fest!
3. Guanella Pass: one of our favorites is Guanella Pass through the historic town of Georgetown. After hiking the pass, why not enjoy a piece of history by taking the scenic Georgetown train loop as you get your fill of beautiful fall colors?
4. Crested Butte's Color Quest: Discover the "Wildflower Capital" with your family, but this time it's all about the leaves. Collect leaves and create leaf art at Kebler Pass - *2023 UPDATE: Kebler Pass is currently open as of July 10, 2023, following repairs from spring runoff damage. Kebler Pass (Gunnison County Road 12) winds through the largest aspen grove in the state making it one of the best scenic drives for fall colors in Colorado.
5. Telluride Treasures: Hop on the gondola in Telluride for a family ride with panoramic leafy views. Or, take a guided 4x4 tour to Tomboy Basin and Imogene Pass. The tour heads into Telluride's high country, where you'll travel above the tree line for spectacular views of the entire valley.
6. San Juan Scenic Excursion: Drive the San Juan Skyway and turn it into a game of "leaf bingo." See who can spot the most colorful leaves along the way.  The San Juan Skyway scenic and historic byway is a 236-mile loop that guarantees you great leaf-peeping scenery during the fall gold rush.
7. Steamboat Springs Surprise: Steamboat Springs offers not only leaves but also hot springs. Take the family to Strawberry Park Hot Springs for a warm and scenic soak.
8. Boulder's Nature Quest: If you're looking for somewhere a little closer to Denver, visit Chautauqua Park in Boulder for a family-friendly leaf scavenger hunt. See who can find leaves of all the colors of the rainbow.

Typically, the best time to go leaf viewing is mid-September to early October. Don't forget to check with local parks and forests or consult online resources to get the latest updates on fall foliage conditions during your visit AND before you go, remember to pack a picnic, hot cocoa, and plenty of snacks to keep everyone energized during your leaf-peeping adventures! 

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by Josalyn Tippets

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