It’s almost my favorite time of year in Colorado! I go crazy for the golden Aspens in our mountains and try to fit in as many hikes as I can to wander through the colors. Since Approachable Outdoors is barely a year a old, some of these hikes were ones I did in the spring or summer and took note of the Apsens to come back in September. Fall colors in Colorado peak (on average) in the last few weeks of September, but check out the KDVR Fall Color Guide to help you plan the best timing!
Have a fall color hike I need to check out this year? Let me know!
5.2 Miles / 994 ft. Elevation Gain
Conifer, CO
Approachable
I love that this hike has you walking through Aspens to start, then at the peak you have incredible views where you see the deep greens from the pines & then the golden Aspens peak through!
6.8 Miles / 1,200 ft. Elevation Gain
Conifer, Colorado
Not-So-Approachable
Head anywhere in Staunton State Park for some of the most incredible views and a few fields of Aspens along the way! Mason Creek trail is a favorite, but definitely a bit steep at times. If you want a real challenge, make your way over to Elk Falls!
4.0 Miles / 1,082 ft. Elevation Gain
Conifer
Approachable
Only 45 minutes from Denver, Conifer is one of my favorite spots for fall colors. Eagle’s View Trail is one that’s a little less busy, has beautiful colorado and a gorgeous view at the top too!
4.8 Miles / 596 ft. Elevation Gain
Frisco, Colorado
Approachable
Frisco is the place to be for fall colors! This hike is beautiful with plenty of Aspens and a lake at the end. Then grab a drink on a rooftop downtown and take in all the beautiful colors of fall.
2.6 Miles / 574 ft. Elevation Gain
Frisco
Approachable
One of my favorite trails overlooking Lake Dillon! I hiked this during peak wildflower season, but took note of all the Aspens to come back and hike in the fall.
3.4 Miles 754 ft. Elevation Gain
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Approachable
There’s not much I love more than a trail completely lined with Aspens! Golden Gate Canyon State Park is perfect for fall hikes and Raccoon Trail offers plenty of color and views.
3.4 Miles / 990 ft. Elevation Gain
Estes Park, CO
Approachable
Gem Lake is one of my all-time favorites in one of my favorite towns! The views themself are incredible year-round, but the amount of Aspens makes this hike perfect for September! If you want to stay a few days, check out my recomendations for a weekend in Estes Park.
2. Meadow Creek to Lily Pad Lake
3.4 Miles / 770 ft Elevation Gain
Frisco, Colorado
Approachable
Frisco is one of my favorite spots for fall colors in general! I missed the fall colors when I hiked Meadow Creek last fall but made a note to come back and wander through the golden Aspens when they’re at their peak this time around.
6.0 Miles / 730 ft. Elevation Gain
Vail, CO
Approachable
I hiked Upper Piney just after the colors peaked last year so I can’t wait to go back and see the colors in their full glory! Aspens line the trail for most of the way and it’s absolutely stunning. It makes the 40 minute drive on the dirt road totally worth it.
The Black Hills of South Dakota are only a 5 hour drive from Denver and I was blown away at the beauty up there. Plenty of incredible hikes, lots of fall colors – perfect for a quick weekend getaway with the family!
