Best Things to Do During Fall in Colorado

Fall in Colorado means you start to pull out your sweatshirts and pack up your shorts. Finding things to do during the fall is really not hard in Colorado. Actually, Autumn in Colorado is a magical time: the air is crisp, the sun is less intense, and the glow from the changing leaves warms the landscape. With fewer crowds and off-season deals to take advantage of; it's a great time to experience all of what Colorado has to offer.

#1 Take a Scenic Drive

Witnessing Colorado's changing aspen leaves in the high country is a great way to spend a day or two. You can pack up the car (don't forget the dog!) and take a drive over and around the continental divide or get off the beaten path, leave the driving to the pros, and go on a leaf-peeping jeep tour. The leaves up high will start to turn before the lower elevations, so be sure to check the fall foliage prediction map for your favorite leaf-peeping area. You can also head out towards Rocky Mountain Nation park and take a driving tour of the Peak-to-Peak Byway.

#2 Fall in Colorado - Scenic Train Ride

Scenic Train rides are a perfect way to see the leaves turning by letting someone else take care of the driving! The Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad runs special trains in the fall. Take in the sweeping views of the Arkansa River Valley on themed rides, including The Halloween Express and Oktoberfest on the Leadville Railroad! Get your reservation soon because these trips do book up! Or, if you're heading to the the south-west corner of Colorado, be sure to book a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Guage Railroad.

#3 High-altitude Hike or Bike Ride

Pack your layers and head to the high country for some great experiences on the high-alpine trails. Monarch Crest, Kenosha Pass or Searle Pass are great this time of year and the views cannot be beaten. The temperature swings are greater in the fall, you might ascend with a beanie on your head, and descend in shorts and a t-shirt, so pack for all seasons. Be sure to watch the weather for the occasional afternoon storms.

#4 Oktoberfest - Fall in Colorado

Break out the lederhosen and steins and attend one of the many Oktoberfest Celebrations throughout the state.

#5 Visit a pumpkin patch & Fall Festival

The shift in seasons brings autumn traditions across the state. Pack up the kiddos and visit these pumpkin patches, corn mazes and cheerful tasty festivals for a wicked good time.

#6 Hot Springs

Hot Springs are great in every season, but there's something about the cooling air that makes us to want to dive in during the fall in Colorado. Book a soak in one of our recommended hot springs, explore our hot springs guide, or get off the beaten path and seek out the "secret" hike-to hot springs.

#7 Romantic weekend getaway

Grab your favorite person and head to the mountains for one of these cozy romantic getaways. With kids going back to school, the high tourist season in Colorado winds down. Deals on lodging can be expected across the board. Now's the time to stay at that boutique small-town inn or bed & breakfast.

#8 Find Deals on just about everything

Fall in Colorado is the best off-season going. Merchants are gearing up for winter and would rather sell their stuff than have to store it. Campgrounds empty out as well. So, you can take your pick at your favorite campsite. Hunting season is underway but most of these people are deep in the woods. Bring your orange outerwear along (hat, coat) or check the hunting seasons so to be properly dressed for hiking. You can count on all other types of lodging to be discounted too. 'Tiss the season to shop for deals, stay for less, and enjoy the spectacular fall colors.