Colorado expecting earlier, brilliant fall colors

As summer’s warmth gives way to the crispness of fall, Colorado prepares for one of its most breathtaking natural displays: the changing of the leaves. If you’re planning to witness this spectacular transformation, it’s time to start thinking about where and when to go. This year, the fall colors are expected to arrive a bit earlier than last year, so get ready now for your perfect autumn RV trip.

Why early?

This year’s summer has been warmer and drier than usual, echoing conditions from 2020, when fall colors made an early appearance across Colorado. Drier conditions tend to cause trees to lose their leaves earlier, so you might want to pencil in your leaf-peeping plans sooner rather than later.

The Pinpoint Weather team from KDVR-TV in Denver released their first fall colors forecast for 2024 this week. It looks like mid- to late-September will be prime time in many areas of the state.

When and where to see the best fall colors

Here’s a breakdown of the best times and places to see the vibrant fall foliage across Colorado:

Sept. 15-29: Rocky Mountain National Park, Steamboat Springs, and Flat Tops

• Rocky Mountain National Park. Plan to visit when the aspen groves turn golden and contrast beautifully against the surrounding evergreen forests.
• Steamboat Springs. Known for its outdoor activities, this area offers a fantastic blend of colors with the changing aspens and the surrounding landscapes.
• Flat Tops. A less-crowded option, the Flat Tops boast expansive views and vivid fall colors, ideal for those looking for a quieter experience.

Sept. 22 – Oct. 5: Vail, Summit County, Aspen, Gunnison, and Grand Mesa

• Vail and Summit County. These iconic mountain destinations are renowned for their aspen groves that seem to stretch endlessly along the mountain slopes.
• Aspen. True to its name, Aspen is perhaps one of the most famous places to view the changing leaves. The Maroon Bells, in particular, offer some of the most photographed fall scenes in the country.
• Gunnison. For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, Gunnison’s wide-open spaces and vibrant colors are sure to impress.
• Grand Mesa. The largest flat-top mountain in the world, Grand Mesa offers a unique perspective on fall foliage with its mix of aspen, oak, and evergreen trees.

Sept. 30 – Oct. 18: San Juan Mountains and Sangre de Cristo Mountains

• San Juan Mountains. Known for their dramatic peaks and deep valleys, the San Juans offer some of the most stunning fall scenery in the state. The Million Dollar Highway, in particular, is a must-drive for any fall foliage enthusiast. (Just remember that bridge work may compromise traffic flow.)
• Sangre de Cristo Mountains. With a name that translates to “Blood of Christ,” these mountains live up to their dramatic name with striking fall colors that paint the landscape in vibrant hues.

October: Denver metro area

• Denver metro area. As the season progresses, the colors make their way down to the Denver metro area. Local parks and surrounding foothills offer accessible and beautiful fall experiences for those who can’t venture into the mountains.

Tips for leaf peeping in Colorado

Fall in Colorado is a beautiful season. With the leaves potentially changing earlier this year, now’s the time to plan your RV trip. Whether you’re driving through the mountains, hiking through aspen groves, or just enjoying a stroll through a local park, Colorado’s fall colors are a sight you won’t want to miss.

Check out this interactive map for more information about peak leaf-peeping opportunities in Colorado.

More on Colorado travel:

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• Colorado hiking in your plans? Stay safe with this free app
• Beware of the Wolf: Surviving Colorado’s intense Wolf Creek Pass
• Discover Colorado’s UFO hotspot
• Rambler Ranch: A shrine to old cars, Americana in rural Colorado

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