5 Fall Hikes in Colorado

Crystal Mill

While traditionally accessed through Marble, the Crystal Mill, can be accessed from Crested Butte. Follow the South Fork Crystal River to the historic mining town of Crystal.

The iconic Crystal Mill is a popular spot for photography and you’ll also pass the Devil’s Punchbowl along the way. What’s more, from the town of Crested Butte, you can take Gothic Road (Route 135) north. You’ll pass the ski resort and drive over into the Gothic valley, past the charming old mining town of Gothic, Colorado.

Kebler Pass

No fall hiking guide would be complete without a trip to Kebler Pass. It’s home to the largest aspen forest in the state. Travel Crested Butte recommends hiking The 3 Lakes Loop. “It is one of our favorite Kebler trails for leaf peeping.”

It offers great treks through aspen groves with the pinnacle showcasing a wide swath of the entire valley. The loop is perfect for a short hike with lake access.

Kenosha Pass

Located about 65 miles southwest of Denver along US 285, Kenosha Pass is one the best places to view the changing aspens. Starting at 10,000 feet, the initial elevation gain on the trails make for easy to moderately strenuous hikes.

Bring your pup (on a leash) and peep the splendid autumn colors of Colorado.

Maroon Bells

Located just 10 miles west of Aspen or 16 from Snowmass in a glacial valley, the 14,000-foot peaks of Maroon Bells truly epitomize the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Hiking trails provide access to plenty of photo-worthy scenes in the White River National Forest, including wildflower fields and brilliant fall colors on aspen trees.

According to Colorado.com, “Autumn is an especially dreamy time to visit, when the Maroon Bells are cradled by cloud-speckled blue skies and golden-hued aspen groves.”

Flash of Gold

The Flash of Gold trail in Steamboat Springs is an 11.3-mile trail leading from the top of Spring Creek Trail near Dry Lake Campground up Buffalo Pass. In autumn, this aptly named trail provides a stunning hike (or mountain bike ride) through one of the nation’s largest aspen groves.