Here are some of the best scenic drives to enjoy Colorado’s beautiful fall colors:
- Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
Less than an hour from Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins, this 55-mile route offers stunning views of the Continental Divide. The byway passes through Highways 7, 72, and 119, with highlights like Rocky Mountain National Park and Golden Gate Canyon State Park along the way. - West Elk Loop
A 205-mile loop that takes you through the White River and Gunnison National Forests, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and more. The route includes a gravel section over Kebler Pass, which closes in winter. - Dallas Divide via Last Dollar Road
This unpaved, 40-mile road stretches from Telluride to Ridgway. The views of Wilson Peak—famous from the Coors label—make it worth the trip. - Castle Creek Road
This 13-mile paved road near Aspen offers beautiful fall foliage and ends in a scenic spot perfect for a picnic. It’s a popular route for cyclists, so drive carefully. - Trail Ridge Road
A “highway to the sky” in Rocky Mountain National Park, this road peaks at 12,183 feet. It’s only open seasonally, so plan ahead. - Bear Lake Road
Also in Rocky Mountain National Park, this 23-mile round-trip drive takes you to a serene lake with a short, scenic hiking trail. Go early to avoid full parking lots. - Guanella Pass
Just an hour from Denver, this 23-mile drive offers breathtaking fall colors and leads to Georgetown. The route is known for tight turns but is manageable for most vehicles. - Mestaa’Ėhehe Pass
For a quick and easy drive, start in Idaho Springs or Evergreen and enjoy the scenic views of Echo Lake and Mount Blue Sky. - Top of the Rockies Byway
This 115-mile drive offers a chance to see wildlife and stunning mountain vistas, with stops at Independence Pass and other photo-worthy spots.
