Colorado Mountain Towns To Visit In Fall
Fall is right around the corner and I don’t know about you, but I’m stoked. In Denver it’s still summer but a quick trip to the mountains this weekend let me know that the end of our 90+ days are coming to an end.
Follow that up with the leaf-peeping forecasts coming out and PSL’s making their way back to Instagram. There really is nothing quite like seeing the seasons change in Colorado. The trees are painted all sorts of colors, the air is crisp, you can wear a sweater without overheating, and generally the vibe is spectacular. We are fortunate to have fall extend out thanks to the diverse elevations.
These are some of the best Colorado mountain towns to visit in the fall (in no particular order)
The best time to visit these towns revolves around when the color is at its peak. There are many forecasts out there for when peak season will be but I find that Seth’s Weather Report is pretty accurate for all things Colorado weather.
Forecast and image by Seth Linden
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is a bustling town in northern Colorado. Based on the leaf report above, the peak will be in mid-to-late September.
Steamboat can be very touristy but that doesn’t mean you should pass on this Colorado mountain town. There is something for everyone- the shopper, the foodie, the hiker, the camper, the backpacker, the mountain biker, and the spa enthusiast. Check out all the town has to offer at the chamber of commerce website here.
Red Feather Lakes
For the person looking for a mountain oasis, Red Feather Lakes is a Colorado mountain town to visit this fall. The area is focused on outdoor activities and is more rustic than the tourist towns on this list. Come prepared to lose cellphone signal and really enjoy what Colorado has to offer.
Based on the leaf report above, the peak will be in mid-to-late September.
Breckenridge
Another bustling town, Breckenridge is always a vibrant place to visit. If you’re coming to this Colorado mountain town be sure to come ready for adventure. Some of the best hikes in the state are around here as are some of the best scenic drives. Here you will find everything your outdoor heart can ever want with the comforts of a fully-stocked town (hello Thai food at camp).
Based on the leaf report above, the peak will be late September to early October.
Grand Lake
Located on the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park this town is a lot different than its eastern counterpart, Estes Park. Grand Lake is smaller with a smaller crowd than Estes but with similar amenities. You can grab a delicious pizza and take it with you for a picnic in Rocky Mountain National Park (you will need a reservation) or take it to some of the overlooks that showcase the town’s namesake.
Based on the leaf report above, the peak will be in mid-to-late September.
Buena Vista and Salida
These are two different towns but they are quite close to each other.
Buena Vista is the spot to go for a more laid-back feel with plenty of delicious food and some unique experiences. You won’t want to miss Cottonwood Hot Springs, especially as the temperatures drop.
Salida is the place you want to go for a small-town feel with some of the best food in Colorado. The Arkansas river runs through the town and provides a great place to have a picnic, watch some fishermen, and some late-season rafters.
For the adventurous out there, this area has amazing hiking trails and camping. If you’re feeling like backpacking, catch the Colorado Trail, the Collegiate Loop, or the Buffalo Peak Wilderness. Try your luck fishing at Cottonwood Lake (Buena Vista) or at the Arkansas River (Salida).
Based on the leaf report above, the peak will be late September to early October.
Nederland
Affectionately known as “Ned” this quirky town is more for the outdoors person. There’s hunting, hiking until your feet fall off, camping, and beer (there are a handful of breweries in this town of 1,400. This town is an easy day trip from Denver and Boulder if you want to visit a Colorado mountain town but don’t want to go far from the city.
Based on the leaf report above, the peak will be in mid-to-late September.
Montrose
Montrose is a town that isn’t focused on tourists. It’s a great home base for all sorts of activities and day trips to more posh areas like Ouray and Telluride. Here you can find museums, botanical gardens, and great breweries like the Horsefly brewery.
Based on the prediction above, the leaf peak should be in late September to mid-October.
Durango
Located in southwestern Colorado, Durango might catch you off guard as a Colorado mountain town to visit in the fall. It has close proximity to the San Juan mountains (this range is breathtaking). This town is great for western enthusiasts and outdoors people. You can catch a scenic train ride to Silverton, check out the railroad museum, stroll historic downtown, and hike until you can’t hike any longer. For backpackers, Durango is the southern terminus of the Colorado Trail and has plenty to offer those who want to spend time in the backcountry.
Based on the leaf forecast above, check out this town in late September to mid-October.
Crested Butte
This is easily one of the most beautiful Colorado mountain towns to visit in the fall and really any time of the year. Kebler Pass is an iconic scenic drive to take during the peak of fall colors and is one to not miss (a maintained dirt road). As a popular ski town, Crested Butte also has luxury amenities that you won’t find in a town like Red Feather or Nederland.
Based on the leaf report above, the peak will be late September to early October.
Estes Park
Located at the eastern entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes is always busy. If you don’t like tourists and traffic, pick a different town. While it is crowded the actual town is quite pretty. It has all visitors in mind. There’s everything from shopping, to fine dining, to hiking, camping, and fishing. Come prepared to spend a little extra money in this town since most things are a bit more expensive due to the crowds that come through. You’ll also likely get the pleasure of seeing elk wandering around as fall is the mating season. It’s a fun sight to see them in the town park.
Based on the leaf report above, the peak will be in mid-to-late September.
