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Writer's pictureJay H

The Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Fall Colors in Colorado

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, Colorado prepares to unveil its stunning autumn display. With early sightings of golden leaves already popping up in the high country, it's time to start planning your fall adventures.


fall-colors-avon-colorado
Avon Colorado, Jeeves Drones

The higher you go, the quicker the season seems to pass. Trees at elevated altitudes undergo rapid changes, with their brilliant colors fading faster than those at lower elevations. In general, trees at elevations above 8,500 feet begin their transformation around mid-September. Meanwhile, trees at lower elevations delay their show until early October, with the colors typically lasting until early November.


If you're planning a leaf-peeping trip, timing is everything. Here’s a breakdown of when and where to catch the best fall colors across Colorado:


  1. High Mountain Regions (Summit County, Aspen, Vail, Rocky Mountain National Park): The vibrant hues in these high-altitude areas usually peak from late September to early October. The higher elevations are the first to undergo this transformation.

  2. Foothills (Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs): In the foothills and lower elevations, the peak of fall colors typically occurs in early to mid-October. These areas offer a slightly longer window to catch the fall foliage at its finest.

  3. Western Slope (Grand Junction, Montrose): Over on the western side of Colorado, the peak fall colors generally appear from mid to late September, creating a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor adventure.

  4. Southern Colorado (Durango, Telluride): The southern part of the state showcases its peak fall colors from late September through early October. This region often provides some of the most dramatic and long-lasting displays.


tennis court fall colorado in the mountains
Avon Colorado, Jeeves Drones

With such a short window to experience Colorado's breathtaking fall foliage, it's essential to plan your trip carefully. Whether you're hiking through the high country or exploring the vibrant foothills, the state's autumn landscapes are sure to leave you in awe.


Best Times of Day to Photograph Fall Colors in Colorado


For photographers, the magic of fall foliage is best captured during the golden hours—the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. These times of day offer soft, warm light that enhances the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves. Midday light can be harsh and may wash out the colors, so it’s best to plan your shoot early in the morning or later in the evening for the most stunning results.


Book Your Fall Photoshoot with Jeeves Drones


With such a short window to experience Colorado's breathtaking fall foliage, it's essential to plan your trip carefully. Whether you're hiking through the high country or exploring the vibrant foothills, the state's autumn landscapes are sure to leave you in awe.


Capture the beauty of the season from a unique perspective by booking a fall photography session with Jeeves Drones. Visit our website or call us at 303-351-1861 to schedule your session today. Don't miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to create unforgettable memories!


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