Experience the Breathtaking Allure of Fall in Colorado

Colorado is home to 26 scenic and historic byways including the Trail of the Ancients, near Cortez in the southwest, and the South Platte River Trail in the far northeast. These byways are a terrific way to see the state and provide an opportunity for leaf-peeping along some of the most picturesque roads in Colorado. Find inspiration to embark on a trek from Denver to drive these byways.

Guanella Pass Byway: 1 Hour

Colors of fall near Silver Dale. | Photo: Cassandra Patton, Visit Clear Creek

This byway connects Georgetown along I70 to the tiny town of Grant, Colorado, on Highway 285. The drive soars high, over Guanella Pass to 11,670 feet above sea level, it offers sweeping vistas of Mount Bierstadt, Mount Evans, and alpine tundra. Speckled with bright wildflowers in the summer, in the fall this drive is filled with the wonder of elevated nature. As one descends into either town, the aspen groves grow thick, creating a golden canopy.  

The proximity to Denver makes this a popular destination, so if it’s possible to drive it during the week, do so. Also, if making reservations for lodging in the area, do it soon because most places fill up in the autumn. Want to stay? I recommend the Rose Street B&B in Georgetown. This charming bed and breakfast, in this mining town of 1,200 souls, sits at the start of the Guanella Pass Byway. Today, there are more tourists than miners, but history is still palpable here. Be sure to visit the Hotel de Paris, built in 1875 as a luxurious hotel, it became and has stayed a museum since 1954. 

Coopers on the Creek is a scrumptious dinner option with everything from creative burgers to wild salmon. Or, if you’d prefer pizza and beer, Guanella Pass Brewing Company is a block from the bed and breakfast. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat in a glass or on a plate, Sweet Easy has got you covered. A before and after dinner spot in the heart of Georgetown, the place plays homage to the town’s colorful past in brightly colored murals on the walls. 

Peak to Peak Byway: 2 Hours

Photo: amandatipton.com

An excellent byway to target for a vacation, there are many cute little towns along the route in which to stop for the evening. It connects Black Hawk/Central City to Estes Park. Established in 1918, the Peak to Peak Scenic & Historic Byway is the oldest byway in Colorado. The gambling towns of Central City/Black Hawk are great towns to start driving the byway. Mining communities originally, history lovers won’t want to miss the Gilpin History Museum in Central City. The nearby Central City Opera House, circa 1932, offers special tours that are not to be missed.

When you’re luck runs out in Central City/Black Hawk or you’ve had enough history for one day, hit the colorful byway to Nederland and the Carousel of Happiness. This happy destination really exists and fits right into the town’s quirkiness. Stop in at the Nederland Visitors Center for the lowdown on this unique, artistic community. By the way, there are three breweries in this town of 1,500, so it might be a good place to stay for the night.

Saint Catherine’s Chapel on the Rock. | Photo: Heidi Kerr Schlaefer

The tiny town of Allennspark is next on the route. Famous for Saint Catherine’s Chapel on the Rock, it is worth stopping here to take some photographs. Also, the Old Gallery in Allenspark is chockablock with beautiful art by regionally-based artists who have captured the beauty of Colorado with paintbrushes, cameras, sculpture and so much more. This gallery is a gathering place for many in the area.

End in Estes Park and enjoy some taffy at The Taffy Shop voted “best candy shop in the U.S.” according to USA Today. Walk along the riverwalk, take in views of the famous Stanley Hotel, and take care to avoid the many elk wandering through town in the fall. There are many places to stay in Estes Park. The YMCA of the Rockies offers one-of-a-kind dog-friendly cabins and a fabulous dog park with an excellent view. For lunch or dinner visit, visit Antonio’s New York Pizza for some memorable pie.  

Visit an interactive map of the 26 Colorado byways to plan your next trip.

Cabin Views: Photo courtesy of YMCA of the Rockies