Top 9+ drives where you can see fall colors in Colorado
One of the best ways to enjoy autumn in Colorado is to take a drive through the mountains.
Fall foliage is forecast to emerge earlier this year in Colorado's high country, appearing ahead of the typical mid-to-late September peak, due to ongoing drought conditions affecting the region.
According to the 9NEWS Weather Impact Team, peak of Colorado fall colors may occur a week to 10 days earlier than usual, with potentially less vibrant colors this year.
Whether you're making a day trip from the Front Range or planning a road trip through the state, here are some drives that will allow you to learn once again why Colorado is truly the best place to be in the fall.
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is less than an hour from Denver, Boulder and Fort Collins.
The well-known 55-mile-long route showcases views of the Continental Divide that can't be matched. The byway is made up of Highways 7 (in the north), 72, and 119 (in the south). On the way, check out Rocky Mountain National Park, Golden Gate Canyon State Park and much more.
West Elk Loop
The route gives access to the White River and Gunnison National Forest, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Curecanti National Recreational Area, and Crawford and Paonia State Parks.
Dallas Divide via Last Dollar Road
If you find yourself in the southwest portion of the state, this unpaved route spanning from Telluride to Ridgway is not to be missed. Last Dollar Road is about five hours driving from Denver and you can begin your journey (the road is about 40 miles) at either end of the road.
Castle Creek Road
This is a 13-mile paved road in Aspen and Ashcroft, a little less than three hours west of Denver. It dead ends, but people who have made the drive encourage you to pack a lunch and have a picnic at the end.
Heads up: This is a popular road for bikers to see the sights as well, so drive carefully.
Trail Ridge Road
This is Rocky Mountain National Park's "heavily traveled highway to the sky." A two-hour drive from Denver, Trail Ridge Road crests at 12,183 feet.
Heads up: This road does close during the winter, so get your leaf-peeping in early. Be sure to check here before making the drive, as the NPS says the status of Trail Ridge Road can change quickly and at any time. Also check with Rocky Mountain National Park, which requires reservations to enter at certain times.
Bear Lake Road
Also nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park, this road leads you to a hidden lake that features a short trail that loops around it. The 23-mile round trip is open year-round. Be on the lookout for foraging elk and other wildlife.
Heads up: People say to go early before the parking lot fills up. And check with Rocky Mountain National Park, which requires reservations to enter at certain times.
Guanella Pass
Just an hour from Denver, this trek will take you to Georgetown, a town known as the "Silver Queen of the Rockies." The 23-mile route is one of the most popular places to view fall leaves.
Heads up: People who have traveled here before say there are some tight turns and horseshoe curves, but all cars should be able to negotiate the road.
Mestaa’Ėhehe Pass
Short on time? This scenic drive is for you. Beginning in either Idaho Springs or Evergreen (which both have quaint downtown areas), you'll see Echo Lake and pass Mount Blue Sky.
Top of the Rockies byway
The 115-mile Top of the Rockies scenic byway is filled with wildlife you may have never seen before. You'll be surrounded on all sides by 14ers.
It takes approximately three hours to drive, although you may allow more time for stops and photo opportunities. The byway includes Independence Pass, a seasonal road typically open from Memorial Day to Nov. 1.
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