Top Spots For Fall Colors Near Denver
Mike Bywater took this photo at Twin Lakes in September 2015 (credit: Mike Bywater)Fall is a beautiful season in Colorado. As the temperatures drop, the mountains burst into gold. You'll find stunning drives around the state but you don't always have to head to high country to find magnificent fall colors. Here are some great Colorado spots and even a Denver neighborhood to enjoy the changing seasons.
(303) 275-5610
www.fs.usda.gov
Just as the summer busy season is starting to die down, Kenosha Pass comes alive with a bounty of beautiful colors. When fall kicks into high gear, the high country is a sight like no other. Even the drive down US 285 is jaw dropping. If you'd like to take a closer look, though, Kenosha Pass provides scenery for hikers, bikers and campers alike.
701 S Franklin St.
Denver, CO 80209
www.denvergov.org
Just because you're in search of some fall colors doesn't mean you necessarily want to spend the whole day wandering around staring at trees. For the high energy crowd, there's Denver's Washington Park, a tree-lined oasis in the middle of Denver. In addition to being packed with beautiful trees, the park hosts volleyball courts, several barbecues, flower gardens and beautiful art installations. Best of all, Wash Park is spread across 165 sprawling acres, so it never feels overcrowded, even during the busiest times.
1000 Englewood Parkway, Suite 230
Englewood, CO 80110
(303) 806-0444
www.moaonline.org
Looking to mix in a little culture while you observe the splendor of nature? Englewood's Museum of Outdoor Art is constantly updated with some of the most gorgeous and daring outdoor art in the world. The sprawling outdoor space is tucked into the area surrounding Englewood's courthouse, but don't let the straight-laced setting fool you. There are plenty of trees to observe the changing colors, and you might accidentally learn a little something to boot. The venue is free to the public, so there's no reason not to swing through Englewood's hidden museum.
Related: Top Public Art In Denver
806 W. Hallam St
Aspen, CO 81611
(970) 925-3445
www.aspenchamber.org
In a region known for its unmatchable beauty, Maroon Bells, located about 10 miles outside Aspen, stands out from the crowd. As summer melts into fall and the leaves begin to change color, Maroon Bells is a simply stunning testament to the majesty of nature. Free public shuttles are available throughout the summer, and in early October — just about the time the leaves are at their most vibrant — travelers are invited to drive through the sprawling scenic monument. If you're in the mood for a bit of a hike to see the area's best fall colors, Maroon Bells can't be beat.
Colfax to 52nd, Colorado to Quebec
Denver, CO 80206
www.denvergov.org
One of Denver's oldest neighborhoods, the tree-lined streets of Park Hill on the east side of the city offer more than just the gold of changing aspen. You'll find plenty of aspen in the yards but also trees that will bring the oranges and purples of other states right to Denver. Take an afternoon to enjoy the walk along 23rd Avenue and check out the neighborhood treasures tucked away at Dexter and Krameria Streets.
