Let’s dive into the top 14 Colorado destinations that deserve a spot on your fall bucket list.
Table of Contents
14 Best Places to Visit in Colorado This October
1. Denver – Urban Charm Meets Autumn Colors
The capital city is more than just a gateway.
In October, Denver shines with rooftop views of the Rockies, fall-themed festivals, and golden trees along city parks like Washington Park and City Park.
Don’t miss the Denver Botanic Gardens’ Harvest Festival or a night show at Union Station lit up in fall colors.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Oktoberfest in downtown Denver, cider tastings at local breweries.
- Local Lodging: The Crawford Hotel at Union Station or boutique stays in LoDo.
2. Golden Gate Canyon State Park – Golden Aspens Galore
Just 45 minutes from Denver, this park is a leaf-peeper’s paradise.
The Panorama Point Scenic Overlook is the star — you’ll see a sea of golden aspens stretching to the Continental Divide.
Hiking trails like Raccoon Loop give you that perfect fall foliage experience without the crowds.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Stop at Cannonball Creek Brewing or a hearty meal in Golden.
- Local Lodging: Cozy cabins inside the park or inns in nearby Golden.
3. Colorado Springs – Red Rocks Meets Fall Vibes
October is also perfect for driving up Pikes Peak Highway, where you’ll catch both fall foliage and snow-dusted peaks.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Pumpkin spice lattes in Old Colorado City cafés.
- Local Lodging: The Broadmoor resort or rustic mountain lodges nearby.
4. Ouray – Hot Springs + Mountain Colors
Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is unbeatable in October.
The nearby Million Dollar Highway also turns into one of the most scenic fall drives in the country.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Local breweries with fall ales and hearty mountain fare.
- Local Lodging: Box Canyon Lodge or hot springs resorts with mountain views.
5. Crested Butte – The Aspen Capital of Colorado
Crested Butte is legendary for its fall colors.
Roads like Kebler Pass explode with endless aspen tunnels, while the quaint town offers coffee shops, art galleries, and a slower mountain-town pace.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Harvest menus at Elk Avenue restaurants.
- Local Lodging: Quaint B&Bs or ski lodges with autumn deals.
6. Telluride – Gondolas and Golden Peaks
Few places can match the fall magic of Telluride. Take the free gondola ride that links the town to Mountain Village.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Fall-inspired menus in Telluride’s mountain bistros.
- Local Lodging: Historic New Sheridan Hotel or boutique ski lodges.
7. San Juan Skyway – The Ultimate Fall Drive
If road trips are your thing, this 233-mile loop through southwest Colorado is the crown jewel.
Passing through Ouray, Silverton, Durango, and Telluride, the drive winds through high mountain passes, historic mining towns, and endless fall scenery.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Stop in Durango for cider tastings and hearty chili.
- Local Lodging: Historic inns in Silverton or Durango bed-and-breakfasts.
8. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre – Music Under Autumn Skies
A bucket-list spot any time of year, but in October the amphitheatre feels extra special.
The red sandstone formations glow brighter under autumn light, and if you catch a concert, the crisp evening air makes it unforgettable.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Food trucks and local brews during shows.
- Local Lodging: Stay in Morrison or boutique hotels in nearby Denver.
9. Guanella Pass – Close-to-Denver Scenic Escape
Just an hour from Denver, Guanella Pass is one of the easiest ways to soak in the changing leaves.
The drive tops out at 11,669 feet, offering sweeping mountain views.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Warm up with cider in nearby Georgetown.
- Local Lodging: Mountain lodges in Georgetown or rustic cabins.
10. Kenosha Pass – Colorado’s Fall Icon
Ask any Coloradan their favorite fall spot, and Kenosha Pass will come up.
Known for golden aspen meadows stretching for miles, it’s a must for hikers and photographers.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Pumpkin spice coffee in Fairplay or Bailey diners.
- Local Lodging: Cabins and vacation rentals in Fairplay.
11. Great Sand Dunes National Park – Golden Dunes, Snowy Peaks
Where else can you see towering sand dunes framed by snow-capped peaks and fall colors?
October is perfect for visiting since the summer heat is gone, making sandboarding and dune hiking far more enjoyable.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Local green chile dishes in Alamosa.
- Local Lodging: Great Sand Dunes Lodge or campgrounds near the park.
12. Mesa Verde National Park – Culture Meets Autumn Beauty
Step back in time as you explore the cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans, framed by the warm glow of fall colors.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Harvest-themed meals in Cortez restaurants.
- Local Lodging: Far View Lodge inside the park or nearby Cortez hotels.
13. Rocky Mountain National Park – Wildlife + Foliage Magic
October is prime time for the elk rut — you’ll hear bugling echoes across meadows while aspens turn gold along Trail Ridge Road. Don’t miss Bear Lake.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Cozy cafés and breweries in Estes Park.
- Local Lodging: Estes Park lodges or cabins along the river.
14. Kebler Pass – The Grand Finale of Fall Foliage
Home to one of the largest aspen groves in the world, Kebler Pass is fall’s grand finale.
The road is unpaved but easily driveable in most cars.
- Seasonal Food & Drink: Hot cider and fresh pastries in Crested Butte.
- Local Lodging: Rustic mountain lodges and B&Bs in Crested Butte.
Read More: 20 Exciting Things to Do in Colorado in October
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