It’s that time of year in the high country, fall is settling in and the Aspen trees are glowing golden. Come explore while they are here!
Colorado fall colors guide: where and when to see the best fall foliage
It one of the most beautiful times to live in Colorado.
Hillsides turn stunning shades of gold, orange and red. And it sometimes seems to happen almost overnight.
Leaves change color each fall when they stop photosynthesis so they can rest for the winter when there isn’t enough sunlight. The green chlorophyll fades, leaving behind the others colors that had been hidden the rest of the year.
Typically, colors peak in the northern mountains between Sept. 15 and Sept. 25. The central mountains peak the last week of the month. For the southern mountains, it’s the first week of October.
One of the best, and most popular ways to see the fall colors is by going on a drive over one of the many scenic byways or mountain passes surrounded by changing leaves.
GUIDE: 9 best drives to see fall colors in Colorado
Each route has many places to pull over and take pictures and to go for a hike or walk for a closer look at the gorgeous scenery.
If you’d rather get an up-close look at the colors the whole way, there are several hikes that take advantage of the season.
GUIDE: 9 hikes where you can see fall colors in Colorado
RELATED: A hike worthy of Colorado’s stunning fall colors: Booth Falls in Vail
Whether you prefer to be on the western slope, in the hustle and bustle of the city, across the eastern plains, or in the foothills, there are dozens of fall festivals to enjoy this one-of-a-kind season in Colorful Colorado.
GUIDE: Love fall? Visit these fun fall festivals across Colorado
