Plan Early to See the Autumn Leaves Changing Color

Seeing the leaves change for fall before they descend to the ground is one of the highlights each year for any outdoor enthusiast. However, it can be a little tricky trying to figure out where and when you should go to see this beautiful sight. So let’s talk about it! I’ll help you find some of the best spots in Colorado you should check out this fall and some dates you should block off to get the best possible experience.

When Should You Plan Your Trip?

Leaves in Colorado usually start changing between mid-September to mid-October, and once they start changing they start falling off the trees fairly quickly. This means the window to experience this amazing sight is fairly small. It’s hard to predict when exactly the leaves will change because it’s a little different each year based on temperature and some other factors. However, according to farmersalmanac.com, the best time to make plans to view the changing leaves this year is October 5th-14th for Colorado. Just a reminder, this is just a prediction so take this with a grain of salt and pay attention to local news channels and websites to get some other predictions as mid-September gets closer.

Where Should You Go?

Now let’s figure out where the best places in Colorado are to get a picture-perfect view of the warm-colored leaves. There are dozens of places to go in Colorado to get a great experience, but here are a few of my favorites.

Aspen, Colorado

Yupp! The name speaks for itself. Aspen, Colorado is filled with majestic aspen trees that just look absolutely magnificent when the leaves turn a golden color. Just outside of Aspen is Maroon Bells. You will want to bring your camera to this location! Maroon Bells has a reflective lake with plenty of aspen trees around. A perfect combination if you ask me! There are multiple hiking trails and a campsite. Be sure to research Maroon Bells to make a plan that best suits you.

Three Island Lake Trail

This is a hike located near Clark, Colorado! Get ready for a spectacular hike with some fantastic scenery! This out and back hike featuring a lake is absolutely stunning with the leaves changing all around. There are plenty of places along the trail to just sit and take in all the views. Being a moderate hike at a total of 6.3 miles, this trail is definitely worth your time.

Trail Ridge Road

Want to see the trees while staying in your car? Consider the Trail Ridge Road. This highway covers 48 miles between Estes Park and Grand Lake. This road offers you breathtaking scenery at high elevations all from the comfort of your car. You cover a lot of ground, all the while taking in some views of some gorgeous trees mid-color change. This relaxing drive is perfect to see the changing Fall leaves with little effort!

Conclusion

There are plenty of places to see the fall leaves in Colorado, but the most important thing is that you just go somewhere! It’s an experience everyone needs to experience once (and as many times as possible). Whether you decide to just view, hike, or drive to see the Fall colors, you definitely will not be disappointed. Just be sure to check wherever you plan to go to make sure they are open and if they have any restrictions.

Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience. 

If you're interested in reserving an Outdoor AdVANtures Campervan for your tour to see the autumn leaves changing, please be sure to check availability and make your reservations early. https://www.outdooradvantures.com/reservations