Where to See Fall Colors in Colorado This Week (Before They’re Gone!)

Photo captured by a Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides Trip Leader in Golden Gate Canyon State Park.

Peak color waits for no one—but fall’s grand finale is still out there if you know where to look. While high-elevation aspens have already shed their gold, lower valleys, river corridors, and foothill trails are still putting on a quiet encore of yellows, ambers, and rust-red cottonwoods.

If you missed peak season, don’t worry: there’s still time to catch Colorado’s final glow before winter takes the stage.

🌾 Best Late-Season Spots for Fall Color

1. Boulder Canyon & Walker Ranch: Just west of town, cottonwoods and willows along Boulder Creek are still golden. The Walker Ranch loop offers a scenic mix of pine forest, open meadows, and creekside groves—perfect for a crisp morning hike or afternoon mountain bike ride.

2. St. Vrain Canyon & Button Rock Preserve: Between Lyons and Estes Park, this stretch holds late-season warmth. The riparian corridors are still rich with color, and the light bouncing off the canyon walls makes for spectacular late-day photos.

Image taken in Nederland, CO.

3. Nederland to Rollinsville: At 8,000 feet, this stretch holds on to its autumn hues longer than the high country. Try the West Magnolia trails for a quiet forest walk or a mellow mountain bike ride framed by lingering gold.

4. South Platte River Corridor: Head south toward Deckers or Waterton Canyon for a totally different palette—burnt orange scrub oak and the last flickers of yellow cottonwoods along the river. Cooler mornings make it a prime time for fly fishing, too.

5. Golden Gate Canyon State Park: Just 45 minutes from Denver, this park’s lower elevations still shimmer with color. Trails like Raccoon Loop or Blue Grouse are excellent for quick escapes before the first snow dusts the ridges.

🧭 Trip Tips

• Go early or go late. Morning and evening light bring out the richest tones and quietest trails.

• Check the wind forecast. A gusty day can strip trees fast—so seize those calm mornings.

• Dress for change. With frost in the mornings and 60s by afternoon, layers are your best friend.

• Bring a thermos. Hot cocoa or coffee turns a leaf-chasing drive into an autumn ritual.

🚙 Don’t Go It Alone

Our guided scenic hikes, biking tours, and custom day trips make it easy to experience fall’s final act without the stress of planning or navigating. Whether you’re chasing color with your camera or simply soaking in the crisp air, we’ll take you to where autumn still lingers.

👉 Book your fall adventure before the season ends.