September and October reward you with the year’s best light and color. Here is how to catch it.
What to do in fall
- Chase the aspen colors — peak is mid-September to early October, highest elevations first.
- Hike in cool, stable weather with fewer people on the trails.
- Drive a mountain pass or ride a scenic railroad through the gold.
- Watch for elk — fall is the rut, and wildlife viewing peaks.
Weather and what to know
Days are crisp and clear, nights near or below freezing, and the first mountain snows can arrive by late October. It is a short, popular window for leaf-peeping, so book lodging for late-September weekends ahead. Bring layers for big day-to-night temperature swings. See our road-trip packing list for the drive.
Where to stayFind your Colorado home baseCompare hotels and rentals in every mountain townCheck availability →Colorado in fall FAQ
When is peak fall color in Colorado?
Peak aspen color usually runs from about the third week of September through the first week of October, beginning at the highest elevations and progressing downhill. Exact timing shifts a little each year.
Where are the best fall colors in Colorado?
Classic spots include the aspens around Aspen and the Maroon Bells, Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, the San Juan Skyway, and the passes around Summit County. Many scenic drives put you right in the gold.
Is fall a good time to visit Colorado?
Very. Fall offers stable, comfortable weather, brilliant foliage, thinner crowds, and often better lodging rates than summer, making it a favorite season for many Colorado locals.