Colorado’s villages are getting a golden makeover as aspen trees start their September transformation. Strolling through the streets, you’ll notice leaves shimmering in shades of yellow and gold.
It’s the kind of scene that makes you want to pause, snap photos, and just soak it all in. Fall is quietly taking over, and the aspen trees are leading the celebration.
1. Telluride
Nestled in a box canyon with dramatic mountain backdrops, Telluride’s aspen groves create a photographer’s paradise. The free gondola ride offers aerial views of the golden hillsides without requiring a hike.
Colorado’s former mining town transforms into a golden wonderland when aspens change. The surrounding San Juan Mountains provide endless opportunities for scenic drives and backcountry adventures.
2. Crested Butte
Known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado in summer, Crested Butte becomes a golden paradise by September. Kebler Pass near town boasts one of the largest aspen groves in North America, connected by a single root system.
The contrast between white trunks and golden leaves creates a magical forest experience in this Colorado gem. Early mornings offer the best light for photographs when sunshine filters through the leaves.
3. Aspen
A town literally named after these magnificent trees couldn’t disappoint during fall. Maroon Bells, just outside Aspen, offers the state’s most photographed scene when golden aspens frame the twin peaks and reflect in Maroon Lake.
Colorado’s premier mountain resort becomes surprisingly affordable between summer and winter seasons. Independence Pass provides a scenic drive through tunnels of gold as you approach from the east.
4. Steamboat Springs
Buffalo Pass offers some of northern Colorado’s most accessible aspen viewing. Unlike other mountain towns, Steamboat’s unique geography creates a longer color season, often starting earlier in September.
The famous champagne powder ski town transforms completely before winter arrives. Hiking trails like Spring Creek provide intimate forest bathing experiences among the golden aspens with fewer crowds than southern Colorado spots.
5. Ouray
Often called the Switzerland of America, Ouray’s dramatic setting becomes even more spectacular when aspens turn gold. The Million Dollar Highway connecting Ouray to Silverton offers heart-stopping views of golden mountainsides against red rock formations.
Colorado’s famous hot springs provide a unique way to enjoy fall colors—soaking while surrounded by golden hillsides. The amphitheater hike above town rewards with panoramic views of the entire golden valley.
6. Breckenridge
Boreas Pass Road becomes a golden tunnel in September as aspen trees create a canopy over this historic railroad grade. The combination of Breckenridge’s colorful Victorian buildings against golden hillsides creates postcard-perfect town views.
Colorado’s popular ski destination offers gondola rides that showcase the fall colors without any hiking required. French Gulch’s mining ruins provide unique photo opportunities with historical structures framed by golden aspens.
7. Vail
The back bowls that skiers love in winter transform into golden bowls of aspen in fall. Booth Falls Trail offers an accessible hike through aspen groves with the reward of a waterfall framed by golden leaves.
Colorado’s famous European-style village provides a charming base for fall exploration. The Gore Range creates a jagged backdrop to the golden hillsides, especially beautiful when early snow dusts the highest peaks above the colorful trees.
8. Durango
The historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers perhaps the most unique way to view Colorado’s fall colors. Passengers enjoy golden aspen vistas from vintage train cars as they chug through otherwise inaccessible canyons.
Mesa Verde Country west of town provides a different perspective with golden aspens contrasting against ancient cliff dwellings. Colorado’s southwestern corner experiences colors slightly later, often peaking at the end of September.