Most people assume that the Centennial State’s prime seasons are summer and ski season. Ask any local, though, and they’ll tell you it’s worth it to make a trip to Colorado during the fall. Colorado falls are warm enough to continue the outdoor festivities yet just chilly enough to cozy up by the fire. Come in autumn to see for yourself. And while you’re here, check out our favorite ways to pass the time before the snow starts falling. If your itching for those Colorado vacation ideas make sure you take note of every tip!
1. See the aspen trees change color.
While you may think this is an activity for elementary school kids and that you’ve seen plenty of trees lose their leaves in your lifetime, we guarantee you’ve never seen anything like this. Make the trip up to Aspen, CO for this spectacle. If you go during the right weekend, you can see the entire mountainsides transition from green to yellow or yellow to orange as the groves change in unison.
2. Participate in Oktoberfest — Denver style.
We loved the idea of the German beer celebration so much that we brought it to Denver. Every year, we dedicate the last two weekends of September to our beloved craft brews. Traveling with family? Not a problem. Oktoberfest has plenty of family-friendly festivities such as food tasting, live music, contests, and other entertainment.
3. Stop by the Telluride Film Festival.
Every year, film enthusiasts flock to this mountain town to see never before seen films make their debut. Venues don’t release the film names until ticket holders are in their chairs, but the wait is always worth it. In past years, award-winning films such as Slumdog Millionaire, Juno, Brokeback Mountain, and the King’s Speech have chosen to host their premieres at the festival.
4. Take a bike ride along the Cherry Creek Bike Trail.
Surrounded by the falling leaves and crisp mountain air, you’ll soon see why Colorado falls are spectacular in their own right. For a glimpse into the life of a Denverite, head to Aviano Coffee and kick back with a warm macchiato after your ride.
5.Spend a weekend in the Rocky Mountains.
The autumn season in the high country is chilly, but not too chilly to stay the night. Rent a cozy cabin for a weekend. You can snuggle up with a book by the indoor fireplace or stargaze by the outdoor fire pit at night. Canon City is perfect for your trip, you can explore all the offerings they have there. There are always plenty of things to do in Canon City.
6. The Georgetown Loop Railroad
Autumn is one of the best times to take a tour on the Georgetown Loop Railroad. You can sit back, relax, and take in the changing colors on this vintage train ride through the Rockies. During the fall, the train even offers a Fall Colors Hike and Ride where visitors can admire the changing leaves while touring the trails and wagon roads taken by the miners in the 1800s.
7. Homemade in Colorado Expo
Take a tip from the locals, and attend the Handmade in Colorado Expo at Skyline Park. The expo includes live music and a local market with goodies made by local Colorado artisans. Attendance is free! Whether you want to shop around or just enjoy the music and laid back ambiance, it’s the perfect way to kickstart the holiday season.
8. Plan your visit during the Denver Arts Week for a memorable fall trip.
During early November, the local art museums offer free or discounted admission as well as free shuttle buses to cart attendees between venues. Accompanied by live music and other events, there’s no better time to check out the Denver art scene.
During the Autumn season, there’s no shortage of color, culture, or craft brews in the Centennial State. Whether you want to relax and watch the leaves change from the patio of a cozy cabin or pack your trip with art and film festivals, there’s no wrong way to enjoy the fall in Colorado.
