Recently we brought you the list of When And Where To Expect Colorado’s Fall Foliage To Peak This Year, which got us thinking: We know when to see the changing leaves, but where do we go to actually see them? We did some digging and discovered that these are the 8 best places to see the changing leaves here in Colorado:
1. Queen Silver Gondola (Aspen)
You have seen the changing colors on Aspen Mountain, but have you ever seen them from high above? Now you can with the Queen Silver Gondola, which glides high above Aspen and over the changing trees. Please note: As of this publication, the Queen Silver Gondola is open every weekend through October 3rd (2021).
2. Maroon Bells (Aspen)
C'mon now: You knew we couldn't have a roundup of the most beautiful fall colors without mentioning the world-famous Maroon Bells! Located down the road from the Queen Silver Gondola, the Maroon Bells are a sight to see year-round but somehow manage to become even more stunning when adorned in gold and yellow.
3. City Park (Denver)
No plans to leave the city anytime soon? No problem, as there are plenty of amazing places to walk around and peep at the changing leaves, including our very own City Park. Seriously though, is this a painting or a real picture?
4. St. Elmo
Located in Chaffee County, St. Elmo is a historic-mining-community-turned-ghost town that is arguably one of the best-preserved in the state. Once home to schools, stores, and dance halls, St. Elmo is now home to historic and well-preserved buildings and homes, all of which are surrounded by the most beautiful fall colors.
5. Pagosa Springs
You could pick literally anywhere in the San Juan Mountains and find a perfect place to see the changing leaves, but we decided to highlight Pagosa, as you can soak in its super-relaxing hot springs while taking in the season. Ahh...
6. Trail Ridge Road (Estes Park)
If you wish to enjoy the fall colors from the comfort of your own car, head north and take a drive along the dramatic Trail Ridge Road. Spanning 48 miles, Trail Ridge is home to not only windy roads but hundreds of thousands of mature trees and lush valleys, making for the perfect weekend drive.
7. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Durango)
Have you ever watched the surrounding landscape zoom by via train? If not, you are truly missing out, especially in the fall, which is best enjoyed from any seat aboard the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad! In addition to its standard rides, the Durango & Silverton also boasts such seasonal rides as Brew Trains, a Ghost Crawl, and Fall Photographer's Special.
8. Flatirons (Boulder)
Last but certainly not least on our list of the best places to see the changing leaves in Colorado is the one and only Flatirons! While the area itself is home to more trees than one can count, it may just be the changing grasslands that re-captures our attention every fall.
Where is your favorite place to enjoy the fall colors? Let us know in the comments! For even more fall-time fun, be sure to check out Don’t Miss The Biggest Fall Festival In Colorado This Year, The Fruita Fall Festival.
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