Colorado in the Fall

Colorado in the fall is spectacular, as Aspen leaves change from green to shimmering gold. Crisp air, blue skies, and fiery foliage set the stage for an unforgettable autumn. From alpine hikes to harvest festivals, make the most out of the Centennial State with these tips. The gorgeous fall colors and comfortable weather beckon visitors from across the globe. Plan your autumn escape and discover why Coloradans eagerly await this beloved time of year.

Getting There

Colorado is easily accessible via train, plane, or automobile. Denver International Airport (DIA) is located in Denver and is a hub for other mountain cities across the state. Passenger rail services and highways offer scenic ground transportation. Whichever route you take, the journey is sure to get you in the mood for fall.

Hike Colorado’s Famous Peaks

Lace up your boots and breathe in that refreshing mountain air on a hike up one of Colorado’s many fourteeners. Quandary Peak near Breckenridge offers a challenging trail lined with glowing aspens. For something more leisurely, hike the 1.4-mile trail around Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park and take in those brilliant golden trees mirrored on the serene water.

Pick  Apples and Pumpkins

Nothing says fall like apples and pumpkins, so visit a local farm or orchard and pick your own. With the fruits of your labor, craft the ultimate crusty apple pie from scratch or carve silly faces onto pumpkins for Halloween decorations. Many farms also host corn mazes and hay rides for old-fashioned family fun.

Colorado in the Fall Harvest Festival

Colorado communities host harvest festivals galore, from food and music to arts and crafts. One of the state’s largest is the town of Berthoud’s annual Octoberfest, which is three days with a parade, 5K run, chili cook-off, tractor pull, and more. Or visit the quaint Western town of Cedaredge for their AppleFest, complete with an old-fashioned cider press and apple pie bake-off. Check out the state’s pumpkin patch festivals.

Photograph Fall Landscapes

Grab your camera and capture stunning photographs of fall scenery across Colorado. Majesty and splendor abound, from the golden meadows of Rocky Mountain National Park to the vineyards of Palisade bursting with autumn hues. For professional tips, take a fall color photography workshop.

Colorado in the Fall, Immerse Yourself in Aspen

Here’s one last way to celebrate the start of fall foliage season. Join the crowds lining the streets of Aspen and cheer on the city’s namesake quaking aspens as they change from green to gold in the annual Aspen Leaf Report. Predict when the colors will peak, and you may win up to $1,000 in the Aspen Chamber Resort Association’s contest. It’s free to enter and gives leaf-peeping bragging rights all season long.

Colorado in the Fall Your Last Chance

As Coloradans will tell you, fall is the most stunning time to experience their state’s natural beauty. So, get out there and make the most of it by taking in those vibrant autumn colors while hiking, picking, or sightseeing across this mountain paradise. When winter arrives, you’ll be dreaming of fall in Colorado again.

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