I grew up in Ohio, in an area surrounded by an abundance of trees that would transform to amazing shades of green, yellow, and brown. As children, my brothers and I would play in piles of leaves in the backyard and chase them around in the breeze. When playtime was over, Dad handed over the rake and garbage bags for us to help clean up yet another season.
Five years ago we moved to Denver and had just a couple transplanted trees in our yard (including an Aspen:). I wasn’t sure what surprise our new landscape would have in store for us come Fall until we started hearing from folks that they were ”going to take a drive to view the Aspens.” Do what? Why not! So we did our research and drove out to Echo Lake along Hwy 103 through a beautiful sea of golden hues! I had found my backyard! Each Fall since we have tried to find an afternoon to venture out and enjoy what Colorado has to offer, and to get those perfect family shots for the Holiday card!
The opportunity to see changing Aspens is brief, from mid-September to mid-October and usually only last a week or two in some areas. Aspens at higher elevations change sooner than those closer to the Front Range. So be sure to check current Aspen conditions before venturing out!
Where to Go
Where to Go
- Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, (mid-September to early October). This pass is accessible from Georgetown and extends through the Pike and Arapahoe National Forests while climbing to over 11,000 feet.
- Georgetown Loop Railroad, (late-September to early October). While in Georgetown to take Guanella Pass, take a ride on the rail to see the golden beauty surrounding the towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume.
- Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, (mid-September to early October). Extending from Black Hawk to Estes Park.
- Co. Hwy 103 from Evergreen to Echo Lake, (mid-September to mid-October). Perfect for an afternoon drive when you're short on time.
- Golden Gate Canyon State Park, (most of October). Only 20 miles west of Denver, this area is dotted with many Aspen groves and offers a fantastic panoramic of the Rockies.
Weekend Trips
Make a weekend out of it and enjoy a festival, too!
- Trail Ridge Road (mid-September to early October) and Elk Fest (Oct. 4th and 5th), Estes Park. As the highest paved road in North America, this is the top pick by many as it weaves through Rocky Mountain National Park from Estes Park to Grand Lake. Elk Fest includes Elk bugling, education, entertainment, and more.
- Maroon Bells (weekends only through mid-October) and Aspen Film Fest (Sept. 26th to Oct. 1st), Aspen. The most photographed peaks in North America and accessible by shuttle only. The 35th Annual film fest will feature a diverse selection of films.
