Best Fall Hiking in Colorado
Fall in Colorado is a magical time, with the vibrant hues of autumn transforming the landscape into a breathtaking spectacle. If you’re looking for the best fall hiking trails in Colorado, you’re in the right place.
Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most stunning trails that showcase the state’s fall colors at their finest.
Remember, fall is a busy season, so plan your trips on weekdays and early mornings to avoid crowds, and always practice Trail Etiquette and Leave No Trace principles.
When to Go
Fall colors in Colorado typically peak in the last few weeks of September and linger into early October, especially in the southern regions.
Difficulty Levels
- Beginner Friendly
- Approachable
- Not-So-Approachable
- Difficult
Top Fall Hiking Trails in Colorado
1. Rainbow Lake, Miner’s Creek
Distance: 4.8 Miles Elevation Gain: 596 ft. Location: Frisco, Colorado Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
Frisco is renowned for its fall colors, and the Rainbow Lake trail is a gem. Enjoy a beautiful hike through Aspens, culminating at a serene lake. Afterward, relax with a drink on a rooftop downtown to soak in the fall scenery.
Travel Time from Denver: 1 hour and 15 minutes
2. Maroon Bells & Crater Lake Trail
Distance: 3.5 Miles Elevation Gain: 688 ft. Location: Aspen, Colorado Difficulty: Approachable & Mostly Dog Friendly
Aspen’s Maroon Bells are iconic for fall colors. Secure a shuttle spot to experience the stunning views of Crater Lake and the surrounding Aspen groves.
Travel Time from Denver: 3 hours
3. Browns Creek Waterfall Trail
Distance: 6.2 Miles Elevation Gain: 941 ft. Location: Buena Vista, CO Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
This trail near Buena Vista offers a mix of steep and level terrain, leading to a beautiful waterfall. Enjoy golden Aspens contrasting with green pines and epic mountain backdrops.
Travel Time from Denver: 4 hours
4. Colorado Trail at Kenosha Pass
Distance: 8 Miles Elevation Gain: 300 ft. Location: Jefferson, CO Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
Kenosha Pass is one of the most popular spots for fall colors. This trail is great for beginners, allowing you to turn around when you’ve had enough.
Travel Time from Denver: 1 hour & 15 minutes
5. Abyss Trail
Distance: 11.7 Miles Elevation Gain: 2,404 ft. Location: Grant, CO Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
Don’t be deterred by the mileage; the incredible views start around 2.5 miles in. The trail is not too steep but offers stunning fall colors.
Travel Time from Denver: 1 hour & 15 minutes
6. Berry Picker Trail
Distance: 3.3 Miles Elevation Gain: 2,224 ft. Location: Vail, CO Difficulty: Not-So-Approachable & Dog Friendly
This steep and challenging trail winds through Aspen trees up a ski hill. The views are worth the effort, and you can take the gondola down for free.
Travel Time from Denver: 1 hour & 30 minutes
7. Legault Mountain
Distance: 5.2 Miles Elevation Gain: 994 ft. Location: Conifer, CO Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
Starting with a walk through Aspens, this trail offers incredible views at the peak, where golden Aspens contrast with deep green pines.
Travel Time from Denver: 40 minutes
8. Mason Creek Trail
Distance: 6.8 Miles Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft. Location: Conifer, Colorado Difficulty: Not-So-Approachable & Dog Friendly
Staunton State Park offers incredible views and fields of Aspens. Mason Creek Trail is steep at times but offers beautiful fall scenery.
Travel Time from Denver: 45 minutes
9. Eagle’s View Trail
Distance: 4.0 Miles Elevation Gain: 1,082 ft. Location: Conifer Difficulty: Approachable
A quick drive from Denver, this trail offers beautiful fall colors and a gorgeous view at the top.
Travel Time from Denver: 45 minutes
10. Acorn Creek Trail
Distance: 4.7 Miles Elevation Gain: 1,000 ft. Location: Silverthorne Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
Known for its epic wildflowers in the summer, Acorn Creek is equally stunning in the fall with its challenging but doable terrain.
Travel Time from Denver: 1 hour & 30 minutes
11. Tenderfoot Trail
Distance: 2.6 Miles Elevation Gain: 574 ft. Location: Frisco Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
Overlooking Lake Dillon, this trail offers golden Aspens with a lake backdrop, making it a must-see in the fall.
Travel Time from Denver: 1 hour & 15 minutes
12. Raccoon Trail
Distance: 3.4 Miles Elevation Gain: 754 ft. Location: Golden Gate Canyon State Park Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
This trail is lined with Aspens, offering plenty of color and views. Note that cell service is limited in the park.
Travel Time from Denver: 1 hour
13. Gem Lake Trail
Distance: 3.4 Miles Elevation Gain: 990 ft. Location: Estes Park, CO Difficulty: Approachable & No Dogs Allowed
Gem Lake offers incredible year-round views, but the Aspens make it perfect for September. Consider spending a weekend in Estes Park to fully enjoy the fall colors.
Travel Time from Denver: 1 hour and 30 minutes
14. Meadow Creek to Lily Pad Lake
Distance: 3.4 Miles Elevation Gain: 770 ft. Location: Frisco, Colorado Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
Frisco is a hotspot for fall colors, and this trail offers a wander through golden Aspens. Plan a weekend in Frisco in late September to fully experience the fall beauty.
Travel Time from Denver: 1 hour and 15 minutes
15. Upper Piney River Trail
Distance: 6.0 Miles Elevation Gain: 730 ft. Location: Vail, CO Difficulty: Approachable & Dog Friendly
Aspens line this trail for most of the way, making it absolutely stunning. The 40-minute drive on a dirt road is worth it for the fall colors.
Travel Time from Denver: 2 hours & 30 minutes
Bonus: Fall Colors Road Trip to Black Hills, South Dakota!
For a quick weekend getaway, consider the Black Hills of South Dakota, just a 5-hour drive from Denver. The area offers plenty of incredible hikes and lots of fall colors.
These trails offer some of the best fall hiking experiences in Colorado. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail for everyone to enjoy the stunning autumn colors.
Happy hiking!
