Best Places to See the Leaves Change Around Fort Collins- Paul’s Top Five

Since I was born and bred in Pennsylvania, I never thought I would find a place that has such splendor when the leaves on the trees change colors in the fall. The first time I saw the stark contrast of the yellow aspens against the dark coniferous background of spruces and pines, I realized that autumn can be beautiful in different ways. While the deciduous forests of the Northeastern United States blaze in a multitude of colors, the consistency of color with the change of the aspens is offset by the landscapes around and mountain peaks above. This time of year is perfect for taking a drive for taking a drive’s sake, escaping to a lower priced off season weekend getaway, or just heading to a mountain restaurant and enjoying the beautiful changing of the seasons in Colorado. So, without further ado, in no special order, here are the best places to see the leaves change around Fort Collins, my top five.

Rocky Mountain National Park

There is no season that isn’t spectacular in Rocky Mountain National Park. Summer’s serene meadows, winter’s frosty peaks, and spring’s rebirth all captivate, but it is the yellow aspens below the crags that stretch toward the heavens that really make for stunning views and photography. We’re talking Xmas card quality photos here. Trail Ridge Road is the best access to the park from the Larimer County side and it stays open until the snow starts to fall, usually in late October. Check Rocky Mountain National Park’s website for closure details.

Lake Agnes Trail from around Cameron Pass

This option for one of the best places to see the leaves change around Fort Collins is not only spectacular, but also is one of the shortest, most picturesque hikes in this area. The drive up Poudre Canyon could have you stopping quite a few times on the way up at places like Profile Rock and Sleeping Elephant. Winding up the Canyon at this time of year will make any fisherperson wish they had their tackle. Just over Cameron Pass you’ll find the turn off to Lake Agnes Trailhead. It’s a rough road, but once you reach Lake Agnes Cabin you’ll understand why the area’s original inhabitants considered the area to be magical. Nokhu Crags are some of the most impressive peaks within an hour’s drive of the front range, and the journey up the canyon, up the trail, and at Lake Agnes will afford many great views of the aspens as they change colors. This hike is steep, but short. It is less than a mile, so if you want to see some great fall colors, an incredible alpine lake and be near the top of the summit of some amazing mountains without hours and hours of hiking, this is the trek for you.

Red Feather Lakes

You could combine activities like fishing and hiking with this journey in search of the best places to see the leaves change around Fort Collins, or you could just drive up and enjoy the scenery. There are two different ways to go from the northern Front Range, each special in their own way. If you take 287 north past Ted’s Place, you’ll get a feel for the open rolling foothills that bleed into Wyoming, and then move gradually into the beauty of the trees. If you head up 14 from Ted’s Place, the drive takes you along the wild and scenic Cache la Poudre River. Both ways are winners.

Estes Park via Lyons

This jaunt around the Northern Colorado foothills is definitely one of the best places to see the leaves change around Fort Collins, and to enjoy some of the quaint towns that dot the landscape along the start of the Rocky Mountains. 287 south takes you to Longmont, and the scenery along the way is very nice. Head west into Lyons and stop at Oskar Blues if you like good beer, or one of their many restaurants for something to eat. Or just respite in Meadow Park and remind yourself to buy tickets for Rockygrass, one of the best bluegrass festivals in America held in Lyons every summer. From there, take 66/36 west all the way to Estes. It’s a short jump, and affords an incredible view all the way and on the descent into Estes Park. Schedule your arrival in Estes for around sunset and traffic jams may ensue because of the majestic herds of elk that could be walking through the downtown area. From there, the drive down Thompson Canyon will also offer incredible leaf peeping.

Pingree Park

Just over 30 miles up Poudre Canyon lies Pingree Park. When you see the big metal bridge on the south side of the highway, cross it! This is an 'off the beaten path' trek, as the road through Pingree is not paved, and washboarded in many places. However, that rough road cuts down on the amount of leaf peepers you'll run across, so if you are looking for feelings of solitude and serenity, this is your spot. All along the way you'll find dirt roads that lead to who knows where, so if you decide to take one, keep in mind that if you experience vehicular difficulties, you might be walking out.