Colorado is known the world over for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and great weather. While there are things to love about Colorado in every season, fall in the Centennial State is especially beautiful. Here are the top 10 things to love about Colorado in the fall, whether you’re a native, a recent transplant, or just visiting.
Fall Colors
They don’t call it “Colorful Colorado” for nothing! Fall is when Mother Nature puts on her best show, with golden aspen trees getting the most attention. The Denver metro area boasts plenty of fall colors, but for the most breathtaking views, you’ll want to head to the mountains.
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway from Black Hawk to Estes Park is a particularly gorgeous drive. Hop on this 55-mile stretch of highway anytime between mid-September and early October to soak up truly dazzling sights.
Variable Weather
Mild temperatures, crisp air, and plenty of sunshine are the norm during the Colorado fall. If you’re not quite ready for summer to end, rest assured that 70-degree days often extend well into October. And if you’re eager for chillier weather, you can expect a preview of the months to come with snow as early as Labor Day.
Broncos Football
Are you a Denver Broncos fan? If so, nothing is better than spending football season in Broncos Country! Whether you catch a game at home with your friends, at a local microbrewery, or in person at Empower Field at Mile High, Broncos football is more than just a game—it’s an experience.
Fall Festivals
The seasonal shift from hot summer weather to cool fall temperatures makes this one of the busiest seasons for festivals in Colorado. From beer and wine festivals to apple and pumpkin fairs to wildlife celebrations, you’re sure to find a fall event that suits your tastes!
Early Ski Season
It’s typical for the mountains—and sometimes even the Denver metro area—to experience snowfall in September. Early snow isn’t just a beautiful sight—it also means Colorado’s ski season is usually in full swing by November. With multiple resorts just an hour or two from the Mile High City, it’s easy to spend a weekend on the slopes and return to enjoying crisp-weather bike rides by Monday.
Hiking and Biking
Speaking of bike rides, fall is the perfect season to explore some of the miles of bike trails around Maryland Mountain. You’ll enjoy the crunch of leaves beneath your tires and the crisp air on your face as you ride through parks, nature preserves, and green belts. You can also take to the mountains for a hike or mountain biking excursion. The fall colors all around you only add to the magic.
Colorado Peaches
Many seasonal Farmers Markets open in June, but early fall offers some of the best fruit and vegetable selections, including peaches from Palisade, CO. You’ll want to stock up on these juicy, local fruits during the brief time they’re available. Make peach smoothies, bake peach cobbler, or eat them plain for a little slice of heaven.
Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes
Nothing says “fall” like taking a hayride through a pumpkin patch or sipping on apple cider while navigating a corn maze. You’ll find opportunities like these all over Colorado, whether you prefer to visit a small family farm or attend a large-scale pumpkin festival.
Active Wildlife
Autumn is one of the most active times of year for Colorado wildlife, making it the perfect season to visit the mountains. The annual elk rut (mating season) draws countless visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park, where it’s possible to hear the distinct bugling of male elk. It’s also typical to witness foxes and coyotes running along the road and see evidence of bear activity during the fall in Colorado.
Oktoberfest
Whether you have German heritage or not, fall is the time to enjoy Oktoberfest—Colorado style! Many cities across the state hold their own celebrations on weekends throughout September. They all share a few things in common, namely live music, traditional German food, and, of course, beer. Oktoberfest isn’t unique to Colorado, but Denver’s event is the second largest one in the United States.
Visit Black Hawk, CO This Fall
Fall in Colorado is full of unique activities and events you can’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking for delicious restaurants, upscale hotels, or exciting casinos, you’ll find it all in Black Hawk this fall. The hour-long drive from Denver is the perfect chance to view the fall colors and enjoy the crisp weather. Before heading our way, brush up on these traveler’s tips to ensure a fun and relaxing time. Then, come see for yourself why Black Hawk is one of Colorado’s top destinations!