Colorado leaf-peeping guide for fall
From the high-valley slopes of Steamboat Springs and the alpine groves of Breckenridge and Vail to the vibrant foothills of Englewood, Colorado’s changing leaves set the tone for a truly memorable fall getaway.
By Paul Oswell | August 13, 2026
Come autumn, the aspen groves across Colorado start their spectacular transformation in late September, bathing the state in golden hues. The fall foliage is the perfect backdrop for romantic getaways or family adventures, with hiking trails for all abilities, breathtaking scenic drives, and fall festivals you’ll remember long after winter has passed. Here are some of the best spots for catching the Centennial State's colors change.
Steamboat Springs
As summer fades, Steamboat Springs offers an evocative escape, known for its therapeutic waters and stunning landscape. The slopes fill out with golden aspens, with Buffalo Pass being one of the best spots in the state to see their peak color. Follow the winding dirt road to reveal sweeping views of the valley, ending with a picnic at Summit Lake. Homewood Suites by Hilton Steamboat Springs is an ideal base nestled in the Rocky Mountains, putting you within reach of Steamboat Lake State Park and the iconic Rabbit Ears Pass. Bike along the nearby Yampa River Core Trail, where cottonwoods add their own amber shades to the mix. Fuel up with free hot breakfast before your hike, then unwind after at the indoor pool. If you need an even more intense soak, the Old Town Hot Springs are hard to beat.
Vail
Vail's dramatic topography makes for the most photogenic fall scenery in Colorado, with stunning aspen groves that weave their way down the mountainsides. Make lasting vacation memories by taking the gondola up Vail Mountain for a bird's-eye valley view, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hike the Booth Falls Trail, with its hidden waterfall and views of the Gore Range. Families might prefer the paved Gore Creek Path for an easy, scenic stroll with mountain views. Highline Vail – a DoubleTree by Hilton, is just a quick hop from the quaint Vail Village, which looks the part in fall with its cobblestone streets and alpine ambiance. After exploring Shrine Pass Road or Piney River Ranch, the hotel welcomes you back with its heated outdoor pool, cozy restaurant, and spacious loft-style suites with fireplaces.
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Breckenridge
A backdrop of 13,000-foot (4,000-meter) peaks and a high alpine setting mean that the aspen trees around Breckenridge turn early in the season, and with spectacular results. The area is home to the Boreas Pass Road, a former railroad route and one of the most memorable drives in the state for romantic views of the mountainside groves. Staying at Hotel Alpenrock Breckenridge, Curio Collection by Hilton, puts you right in downtown Breckenridge. On Main Street, you’ll find quaint spots for coffee and hot cider for post-hike refreshments. Highlights nearby include the short Sapphire Point Overlook Trail and the longer Spruce Creek for a trek past waterfalls and lakes framed in beautiful fall colors.
Planning tip: Check the calendar for fall events like Breckenridge Oktoberfest and the Craft Spirits Festival.
Englewood
For a front-row seat to the dramatic Rocky Mountains, Englewood serves as an attractive, low-key basecamp just outside of Denver. In the gentle foothills, the South Platte River Trail winds past yellow and bronze cottonwoods, so it’s perfect for easy walks or bike rides. The fall colors also frame the 18-hole championship golf course at The Inverness Denver, a Hilton Golf & Spa Resort, the distant uplands setting the scene for every shot. From here, it’s an easy drive out to Clear Creek Canyon Park and the intense vibrancy of its higher-elevation aspen groves. If you prefer to stay close, Denver offers plenty of farmers’ markets, craft breweries, and local restaurants leaning into seasonal menus. The resort also features its own dining options including a brewery and coffee bar, plus a full-service spa for post-leaf-peeping relaxation.
Paul Oswell
Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guidebooks/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California, and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.
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