Destination Colorado: Fall Into Color
Early autumn is an ideal time to drive some of Colorado’ scenic routes to take in colorful views of changing foliage. For iconic journeys along Independence Pass, Trail Ridge Road, and Kebler Pass, pack a picnic, make a playlist, and hit the road to enjoy these classic drives.
Kebler Pass (Crested Butte – Paonia)
Surrounded by the largest aspen grove in North America, Kebler Pass is a stunning drive in the late summer and early fall when the leaves turn gold. There are dispersed camping options along the route between Crested Butte and Paonia, as well as trailheads for hiking and biking. Most of the trek is unpaved, so take your time and enjoy the views.
Fuel up at Paradise Cafe if you’re starting the day in Crested Butte, with Huevos Rancheros, Eggs Paradise or French Toast before you begin the drive. If your morning begins in Paonia, pop into Paonia Breadworks for coffee and a pastry.
Independence Pass (Twin Lakes – Aspen)
With winding switchbacks, steep drop-offs, and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, this gorgeous section of Highway 82 between Twin Lakes and Aspen is not for the faint of heart. A few sections are only one lane, so bring your patience and drive courteously. There’s a trail at the peak of the pass, which is an ideal spot to stretch your legs, walk your dog on-leash, and take photos.
With a flat out-and-back hike around 4.4 miles, the Interlaken Trail which begins near the Twin Lakes dam gives you a glimpse at the abandoned Interlaken Resort on the shores of the lake as well as lovely views of the water and aspens.
Trail Ridge Road (Rocky Mountain National Park)
As the highest continuous paved road in the United States, with almost 50 miles of incredible views between Estes Park and Grand Lake, Trail Ridge Road soars to 12,183 feet of elevation and crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. From this unique vantage point, elk, pika, and marmots are often seen, and views range from forest to lush meadows to tundra above the treeline.
Allow plenty of time to stop and take in the sights, and bring extra layers of clothing as temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees from the entrances of Rocky Mountain National Park to the highest elevation.
Guanella Pass Scenic Byway (Georgetown – Grant)
Cache la Poudre Scenic Byway (Fort Collins – Walden)
Cutting through the canyon along the Cache la Poudre River, this 101-mile route meanders from Fort Collins to Walden. As one of the only waterways in the country with that’s been designated as a Wild and Scenic River, its challenging whitewater is renowned by kayakers and rafters.
Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep in the canyon, and bring your fly rod to cast for rainbow trout as well.
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Estes Park – Black Hawk)
With 55 miles snaking along the Front Range, Colorado’s oldest scenic byway leads the way through golden aspen groves, charming small towns, and adventurous excursions in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Stroll the charming town of Estes Park and enjoy a meal at Park Tavern before exploring the Stanley Hotel which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining. Legend has it that ghosts roam the halls!
San Juan Skyway
Traversing 236 miles through the southwestern Colorado towns of Durango, Telluride, Ouray, and Silverton, this route has been designated a National Forest Scenic Byway and Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway. The Million Dollar Highway is one section between Ouray and Silverton on Route 550, with sharp turns and a climb over 11,000 feet on Red Mountain Pass.
Stop for lunch in Ouray at the Goldbelt Bar & Grill, for fresh salads, pizza, and drinks before exploring the historic town and hiking at the Box Cañon Falls Park.
As you plan a fall roadtrip, make sure to include one of Colorado’s spectacular drives on the itinerary. Whether you are in the mood for high mountain peaks, wildlife, or roadside adventure, there’s something for everyone.
Crested Butte is truly a gem of Colorado and offers both luxury mountain homes and land lots ready to build for your dream home, investment opportunities, or vacation destination. With a background in luxury services, Nikki Pulitzer brings an eye for design to every client experience. Contact Nikki Pulitzer, Crested Butte Realtor, and find your mountain home today.
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