An insider’s guide on where to find the best views of Colorado’s fall colors
Fall is just around the corner, and that means one of our favorite activities of the year is coming too: Leaf peeping! The leaf peeping in Colorado is some of the best in the world, and Aspen and Snowmass are two of the premier areas to see the fall colors in all their glory. But where exactly should you go for maximum foliage? Here’s our curated list of the best leaf peeping spots in Aspen Snowmass:
- Maroon Bells/Maroon Lake: Already one of the most iconic locations in Colorado, this beautiful area becomes even more stunning in the fall. With the glow from the aspen trees’ bold golden hues against the dramatic backdrop of the Maroon Bells, and the reflection of it all across Maroon Lake, you get a scene that truly feels like it’s straight from a dream – and one you simply can’t find anywhere else in the world!
- Aspen and Snowmass Mountains: You don’t have to wait for the snow to fly to enjoy these epic resort mountains – they’re also some of the best places to see Colorado’s fall foliage. Whether you choose to hike up one of the many trail options or ride the gondola up, you’ll be treated to breathtaking, expansive views of yellow, orange and red at each respective resort.
- Ashcroft: The ghost town of Ashcroft may be long abandoned, but it remains one of the most gorgeous places you’ll ever see, and the fall months are when it really shines. This area is prime for leaf peeping, with massive aspen groves stretched across the foreground of the Elk Mountain range, under wide open sky. Want to make a day of it? Check out Pine Creek Cookhouse for a lunch you won’t soon forget, in the most spectacular setting you can imagine.
- Government and Tom Blake Trails: Want to scope out the leaves from your bike or hiking route?! Then the Government and Tom Blake trails in Snowmass Village should be at the top of your list! These trails take you right into the heart of the aspen groves so you can get up close and personal with the fall colors, and get an amazing workout to boot. You’ll feel just like you’re following the infamous yellow brick road! You can learn more about potential trail routes here.
- Rim Trail: Also at the center of Snowmass – and accessible right from your door at Woodrun V! – is the renowned Snowmass Rim Trail, which takes hikers, runners and bikers high above Snowmass Village for sweeping panoramic views that are well-earned. Another amazing option for those who like to enjoy the fall colors on-the-go, this trail not only traverses right through aspen groves showing off their golden glow, but also overlooks surrounding hills ablaze with the reds and oranges of Scrub Oak. You’ll get all the colors, and all the incredible sensations of fall!
- Independence Pass: Prefer to take in your scenery from the road? With a drive over Independence Pass just east of Aspen, you can experience some of the best leaf peeping imaginable, without ever having to step foot out of your car. This scenic road trip will feel like it’s right out of the movies – in high definition, of course!
So, what are you waiting for…? Fall leaf peeping in the Roaring Fork Valley is just too good to miss, and it only comes around for a few weeks each year – so don’t miss out! Check out our available fall vacation rentals in Snowmass now, and start planning your trip to experience the fall foliage in Aspen Snowmass!
