Sure, Colorado is most known for its beauty when the Rocky Mountain peaks are snow covered and the towns are alive with visitors from every corner of the world. The fall scenery displayed by Colorado puts up some competition to the winter, however. Check out the top 5 ways to enjoy the fall foliage in Colorado over the next few months from AVA.
1. Estes Park Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway
Colorado’s oldest scenic byway will meet all of your fall scenery expectations. Take in the views of valleys filled with aspen trees as you travel through the Continental Divide and to some of Colorado’s favorite casino-hubs, Black Hawk and Central City. Pull over when you make it to Rocky Mountain National Park. Your legs will enjoy the stretch and you will not be able to peel your eyes away from the beauty of the fall!
2. Georgetown Railroad
The Georgetown Railroad is a great way to take in the beauty of Colorado fall scenery. The trip will take you just over 3 miles, with a total elevation of 640 feet. The railroad trip also features 2 loops and 4 bridges, most notably the Devil’s Gate High Bridge. Take in the fall foliage from one of Colorado’s first tourist attractions. Originally built in 1884, the railroad has seen many updates but still offers the historic feel that came from its beginnings. You will get incredible views of two of Colorado’s mining towns – Georgetown and Silver Plume. Don’t forget your camera!
3. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Take in the beautiful fall scenery from 9,000 feet above the ground! Join us for a hot air balloon ride from the South Park area, just about a half hour south of Breckenridge. Your adventure will start with hot coffee and breakfast at sunrise just before liftoff. After your breakfast you will float up high in the Rocky Mountains and take in the beautiful mountain views. Your trip event comes with a souvenir champagne glass! What better way to take in the stunning fall foliage of Colorado?
4. Hike the Maroon Bells 
Take in the views of Colorado’s most photographed peaks. Situated 10 miles from Aspen, the Maroon Bells create a beautiful scene, with the two snow covered peaks, named Maroon Peak and North Maroon peak, acting as a backdrop to a sparkling lake. The various hiking trails with give you incredible views of the fall scene the Bells display. We recommend the Crater Lake Trail. The area is also a great place for spotting wildlife. Keep an eye open for deer, fox, bighorn sheep, beaver and porcupines.
5. Bike Vail Mountain
Just when you thought Vail couldn’t possibly be any more beautiful, the fall rolls around and blows your mind. Grab your bike and ride the gondola to the top of the mountain. With great trails ranging from beginner to expert, you will never be bored as you zig-zag and weave down the mountain surrounded by the beautiful fall scenery.
If you’re not ready to make the downhill trip on Vail’s mountain, take advantage of its incredible bike path over Vail Pass. You can take a short trip to Copper Mountain, or make a day of it will a bike trip to Frisco or even Breckenridge!
Colorado’s fall foliage is notorious and a welcome addition to the colder temperatures. Grab a jacket and a couple friends and family and take in all that Colorado’s fall season has to offer!
