A Breathtaking One-Week Fall Getaway: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Colorado

Travel
Written By Shanta Singh

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As the crisp autumn breeze sweeps through the Rocky Mountains, Colorado transforms into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, making it the perfect destination for a one-week fall getaway. My husband and I embarked on a week-long escapade to Colorado, with Denver as our starting point. The city's crisp autumn air and lively atmosphere instantly captivated us, setting the tone for an unforgettable adventure. As the leaves painted the landscapes with vibrant hues, we couldn’t wait for the adventures that awaited us.

This guide will help you make the most of your seven days in Colorado, ensuring you experience the magic of fall foliage, outdoor adventures, and local delights.

Here are some quick tips for planning your fall foliage trip to Colorado:

  • The best time to have a colorful escape in Colorado is usually from late September to early October.

  • The aspens in Rocky Mountain National Park are some of the most spectacular in the state.

  • Other popular places to see fall foliage in Colorado include Vail, Breckenridge, and Crested Butte.

  • Dress in layers, as the weather can change very quickly in the mountains.

  • Bring a camera to capture all the gorgeous fall colors - (All of the photos on this post belong to me, and may not be used without credit)

  • I strongly recommend considering car rental during your time in Colorado. While public transportation is an option, it can consume additional time and potentially cost more compared to renting a car. Given that this itinerary spans various locations (many of which are over an hour's drive apart), having a car will significantly enhance your convenience and overall experience.

Day 1: Explore Denver - Red Rock Amphitheatre, Union Station, Art Museum, Zoo, Confluence Park

Start your day in Denver, the capital of Colorado. Visit the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Zoo, or the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. In the evening, take a walk through Confluence park, visit Union Station and enjoy a delicious meal at one of Denver's many restaurants and grab some Ice cream at Little Mans Ice cream.

Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park

Spend the day really exploring Rocky Mountain National Park. Stop at the Alpine Visitor Center for some great views. Go for a hike to Bear Lake, or take a drive on Trail Ridge Road. Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved road in the entire US. In the afternoon, visit Estes Park, a charming town located at the entrance to the park. Don’t forget to grab lunch or dinner! Some restaurants in town I recommend are: Nepal’s Cafe, Penelope’s Old Time Burgers and Casa Grande Mexican.

View from Alpine Visitor Center

Day 3: Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Canyon Railway and Hanging Lake Trail

Drive to Glenwood Springs, a town known for its hot springs. Go for a swim in the world-famous Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, or take a ride on the Glenwood Canyon Railway. In the afternoon, hike to Hanging Lake Trail, a moderate 4-mile round trip hike that leads to a stunning emerald green lake. This hike was the most unique and beautiful one I’ve seen and up to now it’s been my absolute favorite hike I’ve ever done!

Day 4: Independence Pass and Aspen

Spend the day exploring Aspen, a charming town, known for its opulent winter ski resorts, transforms into a picturesque wonderland as the leaves turn to brilliant shades of gold and amber. The iconic golden aspen groves create a breathtaking contrast against the backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Go for a hike in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, or take a gorgeous scenic drive on Independence Pass - Highway 82. (roads are a bit scary here but worth it!) In the evening, enjoy lunch or dinner at one of Aspen's many restaurants. I recommend Element 47 at The Little Nell Hotel where we had a delicious lunch.

Day 5: Pikes Peak Summit

Go to Colorado Springs and check out Pikes Peak. Pikes Peak stands as the tallest peak in the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in North America. You can ride a special train up the mountain to see amazing views or drive. We chose to drive and it was the most coolest, scariest, and windiest drive! (we had to stop once due to fear of heights because it was extremely windy) We kept going. It was so worth it for the most spectacular views and a lifetime experience. When we got to the summit, I truly felt like I was on top of the world. Tip: Do not leave without these incredible old-fashioned donuts made 14000 feet high!

Day 6: Manitou Cliff Dwellings and Garden of the Gods

Drive to Manitou Springs. Visit the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, which is a prehistoric Native American settlement. In the afternoon, drive to Garden of the Gods. Walk amidst these natural wonders which make you feel like you’re stepping into a painting of reds, oranges, and yellows. Whether you're exploring the trails, capturing photos of the iconic rocks against the fall foliage, or simply soaking in the serene beauty, Garden of the Gods in the fall is a truly magical experience. My husband and I enjoyed being here so much that we went climbing off path and found the best view. (pictured below)

Day 7: Explore Boulder, Dushanbe Tea House, Flagstaff Mountain, Pearl Street

Spend the day exploring Boulder. Flagstaff Mountain offers breathtaking views from Sunrise Amphitheater. The Dushanbe Tea House enchants with its intricate design, transporting you to distant lands while you enjoy a cup of tea. And then there's Pearl Street, a bustling hub of eclectic shops, street performances, and local cuisine that captures Boulder's vibrant spirit. We also visited Boulder Valley Ranch which is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquility of pristine landscapes along with sweeping meadows, meandering trails, and breathtaking Rocky Mountain views.

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Shanta Singh https://www.loveshanta.com
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