Mohamed Bughrara
Upset with the Denver Broncos’s early struggles? Take some time off by hiking in colorful Colorado, especially during the autumn months, famous for its spectacular fall foliage. The vibrant autumn colors of Colorado’s aspens are spectacular. If you’re looking for the renowned yellow, orange, and red leaves, there are countless fall hikes to choose from, but this list contains the top five hikes in Colorado.
Mt. Bierstadt
The trip up Guanella Pass to Mt. Bierstadt is spectacular, and the walk up Colorado’s “easiest” fourteener is a wonderful way to admire the aspens. Start at the Guanella Pass Trailhead for this 7-mile round-trip hike. If you don’t feel like cresting, simply continue on the path until you reach the point where you want to turn around. The views and colors will remain enjoyable.
Staunton State Park
Staunton State Park, Colorado’s newest state park, has this trail. Locate the park at 12102 South Elk Creek Road, Pine, CO 80470, and prepare to enjoy the fall foliage. It’s a 10.8-mile round-trip hike through changing aspens: yellow, orange, and potentially even red if you go at the right time. Furthermore, the proximity to Denver is ideal for anyone who lives in the city.
Kebler Pass
To be clear, Kebler Pass isn’t a trail, but the fall foliage makes it worthwhile to mention. After driving along the road, consider hiking Elk Creek/Gunsight Pass. For hiking, take Kebler Pass Road west for 4.6 miles and park near the ravine. Take the trail off to the right, hiking along the left side of the stream. Return via the same route once you’ve reached the top of Gunsight Pass. It’s a challenging 4-5 mile hike, but the colors make it worthwhile.
Lizard Head Trail
Lizard Head Trail is one of Telluride’s most popular trails, and the scenery only gets better as autumn approaches. There are several trip options available, including a 7.6-mile round trip journey to Black Face Peak. It’s a difficult hike, so be prepared to put in some effort! It is encouraged to take frequent photo breaks.
Three Island Lake Trail
Three Island Lake Trail, another Steamboat area favorite, is an excellent fall hiking trip. If you time it right, you’ll be hiking through a dense aspen forest that should be bursting with color. The 7-mile journey is classified as moderately difficult. The trail is easily accessible from Steamboat Springs, and the trailhead can be found by entering the following GPS coordinates into Google Maps: 40.76389, -106.70833.
