Looking to plan your fall hiking adventures?
For the best fall hiking near Denver, we recommend heading to higher elevations in mid-to-late September to witness the brilliant aspen trees. As October arrives, you’ll find golden cottonwoods closer to the city.
We’ve compiled a list of our recommended trails and tips to help you make the most of your fall hikes.
Mid-September to early October (aspens)
Just 30 miles west of Denver, this state park is a local favorite for viewing autumn colors.
- Hike: The Raccoon Trail is a 2.5-mile loop through aspen groves that leads to Panorama Point, a scenic overlook with stunning mountain views.
- Directions: HERE
Situated in Indian Hills and Morrison, this park offers a variety of hiking trails with excellent foothills views. The mix of aspens and other foliage provides great fall color.
Best for: Sweeping Front Range vistas and a historic castle ruin.
Directions: HERE
Southwest of Denver, this park offers beautiful fall foliage mixed with rock formations and mountain scenery.
Best for: Diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and a waterfall.
Hike: The Elk Falls trail is a more challenging trek to a stunning waterfall, with plenty of aspens and meadows along the way.
Directions: HERE
Kenosha Pass
Located about 65 miles southwest of Denver off Highway 285,
Kenosha Pass offers one of the most famous and spectacular aspen groves in the state.
Hike: The Colorado Trail at Kenosha Pass is an easy-to-moderate section that immerses you in a vibrant forest.
Best for: Massive, dense stands of golden aspens.
Directions: HERE
Late September and October (mixed colors)
While higher elevations peak in mid-September, lower valleys of RMNP like Moraine Park and Hidden Valley are still prime for viewing golden aspens and willows in late September. October is also peak elk rut season, where you can watch the males bugle in the meadows.
Hikes: Popular fall hikes include the Emerald Lake Trail, Alberta Falls, and Sprague Lake.
Important note: Timed-entry reservations are often required to enter the park and access certain areas. Check the park’s website before you go.
Directions: HERE
Just a short drive from Denver, this park in Idledale features the Bear Creek Trail, which is lined with beautiful golden autumn trees and bushes.
Best for: A moderately easy and scenic creekside walk that is great for all ages.
Directions: HERE
Beyond the famous amphitheater, the park’s trails offer vibrant fall colors against the iconic red rock formations. The mix of scrub oak and other low-elevation foliage provides beautiful warm tones.
Hike: The Trading Post Trail is a 1.7-mile loop with great views of the red rocks and surrounding landscape.
Best for: Unique rock scenery combined with classic autumn colors.
Directions: HERE
Clear Creek Trail (Golden)
This accessible, paved trail runs along Clear Creek in the city of Golden. While not aspens, the trail is lined with colorful cottonwood trees that turn a brilliant gold in October.
Best for: A leisurely stroll or bike ride with late-season fall foliage.
Directions: HERE
Tips for your fall hike
Be flexible: Some high-elevation mountain passes and trails in RMNP may close due to early snow. Have a backup plan in mind.
Go early: Popular trails and viewpoints can get crowded, especially on weekends during peak foliage season. Arrive early for parking and a more serene experience.
Check conditions: The timing of fall colors varies based on elevation and weather. A little advance research on local forums or websites like Colorado Fall Colors will help you pinpoint the peak window.
Bring layers: Mountain weather can be unpredictable in the fall. Dress in layers to stay comfortable as temperatures change throughout the day.