Colorado is renowned for its vibrant fall colors, which typically peak in late September and early October. The state's diverse landscape, featuring mountains, forests, and valleys, creates a picturesque backdrop for a scenic drive to witness the changing foliage. With over 24 million acres of public land, Colorado offers numerous routes for a memorable fall colors road trip. In this article, we will explore some of the most scenic drive routes in Colorado, highlighting the best times to visit, notable stops, and tips for making the most of your trip.
Scenic Drive Routes in Colorado
Colorado has an abundance of scenic drive routes, each offering a unique perspective on the state’s fall colors. Some of the most popular routes include:
1. Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile stretch of US-550 that runs from Silverton to Ouray. This route is considered one of the most scenic drives in the country, with steep cliffs, alpine lakes, and abundant aspen groves. The highway typically reaches its peak color in late September, with the aspens turning a vibrant gold. Be sure to stop at the Idarado Mine and take in the views of the surrounding mountains.
2. Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road is a 48-mile stretch of US-34 that runs through Rocky Mountain National Park. This route takes you through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the state, with abundant quaking aspens and Colorado blue spruce trees. The road typically reaches its peak color in early October, with the aspens turning a brilliant yellow. Be sure to stop at the Alpine Visitor Center and take a short hike to the nearby Tundra Communities Trail.
3. San Juan Skyway
The San Juan Skyway is a 236-mile loop that runs through the San Juan Mountains. This route takes you through some of the most historic mining towns in the state, including Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride. The skyway typically reaches its peak color in late September, with the aspens turning a vibrant gold. Be sure to stop at the Mancos State Park and take in the views of the surrounding mountains.
| Scenic Drive Route | Distance | Peak Color Time |
|---|---|---|
| Million Dollar Highway | 25 miles | Late September |
| Trail Ridge Road | 48 miles | Early October |
| San Juan Skyway | 236 miles | Late September |
Notable Stops and Attractions
In addition to the scenic drive routes, there are numerous notable stops and attractions throughout the state that are worth visiting. Some of the top recommendations include:
1. Maroon Lake
Maroon Lake is a picturesque lake located near Aspen, surrounded by quaking aspens and Colorado blue spruce trees. The lake is a popular spot for photography, with the surrounding mountains and foliage creating a stunning backdrop.
2. Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is a free public park located in Colorado Springs, featuring unique red rock formations and abundant piñon pine and juniper trees. The park is a great spot for hiking and photography, with the surrounding mountains and foliage creating a stunning backdrop.
3. Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a 415-square-mile park located in northern Colorado, featuring abundant quaking aspens and Colorado blue spruce trees. The park is a great spot for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, with the surrounding mountains and foliage creating a stunning backdrop.
- Maroon Lake: A picturesque lake located near Aspen, surrounded by quaking aspens and Colorado blue spruce trees.
- Garden of the Gods: A free public park located in Colorado Springs, featuring unique red rock formations and abundant piñon pine and juniper trees.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: A 415-square-mile park located in northern Colorado, featuring abundant quaking aspens and Colorado blue spruce trees.
What is the best time to visit Colorado for fall colors?
+The best time to visit Colorado for fall colors is typically from late September to early October, when the aspens are at their peak color. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the specific location and weather conditions.
What are some of the best scenic drive routes in Colorado for fall colors?
+Some of the best scenic drive routes in Colorado for fall colors include the Million Dollar Highway, Trail Ridge Road, and the San Juan Skyway. These routes take you through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the state, with abundant quaking aspens and Colorado blue spruce trees.
What are some notable stops and attractions in Colorado for fall colors?
+Some notable stops and attractions in Colorado for fall colors include Maroon Lake, Garden of the Gods, and Rocky Mountain National Park. These locations offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and foliage, and are great spots for photography, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
