Best Fall Foliage Hikes in Colorado

By Dena Davis

Pella Crossing Loop Trail - It is a 1.4 mile loop trail just west of Longmont, near Hygiene, which is usually very quiet. It is known for its peaceful fishing spots and hiking trails with spectacular views of Longs Peak and wetlands surrounded by the Great Plains. Regardless of your skill level or level of activity, this trail offers you options. Dogs are welcome on this trail, but they must be leashed.

When fall colors are at their peak and snow kisses the Twin Peaks, Pella Crossing is the ideal location to view nature's glory. A vast number of birds migrate through the wetland. The wetlands are biologically diverse, both within and outside of the water, because they are surrounded by wildflowers, grasses, and trees.

The Bachelor Loop, north of Creede, starts in the iconic cliffs at the end of Creede's classic western Main St and circles through some amazing mining ruins. A map is available at the Visitors Center/Chamber building, so you can drive through the old town of Bachelor and see the beautiful fall foliage. Aspen trees are also plentiful along the way, and you'll also see a huge meadow with colorful fall foliage.

Cumbres La Manga Pass and the Conejos Canyon, Hwy 17 going into New Mexico (one end of theLos Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway) A road that leads to the mining town of Platoro has amazing views with a lot of aspens. It passes through La Manga Pass and the Conejos Canyon, and it goes into New Mexico on Hwy 17 (one end of the Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway). There are hardly any Colorado hikers on this trail, mainly San Luis Valley hikers.

Opal Lake trail,near Pagosa Springs, Pagosa Springs is about three and a half miles away from Opal Lake, a moderately easy trail that takes about three quarters of an hour to complete. You'll see the mountain face, with mineral deposits that give Opal Lake its milky color, as well as the open meadows. During the autumn, one of the most beautiful places is a wooded hillside with a large aspen grove, which displays the most spectacular fall foliage.

Anderson Trail - There is a nine-mile distance between the trailhead and the Fourmile Trail along the eastern side of Pagosa Peak. The trail crosses a steep portion of the mountain. From above, you will be able to see rock formations and beautiful aspen trees, as well as fall colors. There are hiking and horseback riding areas along the trail, as well as primitive camping spots.