12 Best Fall Activities in Colorado

The arrival of fall in Colorado brings with it a symphony of warm hues, crisp air, and the promise of enchanting experiences that beg to be captured through the lens. For the adventurous and creative souls who thrive on content creation, travel, and photography, Colorado's autumn offers a plethora of activities that fuse the beauty of the season with opportunities to tell captivating visual stories.

1. Leaf Peeping: A Kaleidoscope of Colorful Delights

Fall Leaf Peeping in Colorado, Best Places to See Fall Foliage

Colorado's fall foliage is a masterpiece of nature, transforming the landscape into a kaleidoscope of colors. Grab your camera and head to iconic spots like Maroon Bells, Guanella Pass, or Kenosha Pass, where aspen trees paint the mountainsides in vibrant shades of gold and orange. Hike or drive through scenic routes, capturing the interplay of light and leaves as you document the transformation of summer into fall.

Here are some of the best places for leaf peeping in Colorado:

Trail Ridge Road
Kebler Pass
San Juan Skyway
Maroon Bells
Buffalo Pass
Telluride
Breckenridge
Aspen

For those wanting to stay in the city, Denver’s leaves start to change around October-Mid November.

2. Pumpkin Picking and Apple Orchards: Crafting Autumn Memories

Pumpkin Picking and Apple Orchards in Colorado, Best Farms for Fall Activities

Embrace the charm of fall by visiting local pumpkin patches and apple orchards. Many farms also transition into “spooky” season for some haunted fun.

Here are some of the best Pumpkin Patches and Apple Orchards in Colorado:

3. Hot Air Balloon Rides: Soaring Above Autumn Splendor

Experiences fall from a unique vantage point with a hot air balloon ride. Floating above the landscape as the sun rises, you'll witness the changing colors from a perspective that's both breathtaking and surreal. Witness the beauty of the earth below as it transforms into a canvas of warm tones. The contrast between the vibrant leaves and the expansive views is nothing short of magical.

Here are some Hot Air Balloon companies in Colorado:

4. Corn Mazes and Haunted Houses: Captivating Autumn Adventures

Corn Mazes and Haunted Houses in Colorado, Fall Activities for Thrill-Seekers

For those seeking a mix of adventure and spookiness, Colorado's corn mazes and haunted houses offer a captivating blend of experiences. Capture the excitement on your friends' faces as you navigate intricate mazes or the eerie atmosphere of haunted attractions. These activities provide an opportunity to create dynamic content that captures both the fun and the thrill of fall.

Here are some of the best Corn Mazes and Haunted Houses in Colorado:

5. Alpine Hiking and Backpacking: Immersing in Fall's Tranquility

Alpine Hiking and Backpacking in Colorado, Fall Wilderness Adventures

Falling into the alpine regions of Colorado is a serene experience that's perfect for capturing the beauty of solitude. Plan a hiking or backpacking adventure through trails like the Rocky Mountain National Park or the San Juan Mountains. As you navigate through forests of golden aspens and towering evergreens, document the serenity of the landscape and the transformative power of the season.

Here are some of the best Alpine Hikes for fall:

Upper Piney River Trail
Meadow Creek Trail to Lily Pad Lake
Gem Lake Trail
Raccoon Trail
Tenderfoot Trail

6. Harvest Festivals: Celebrating the Season's Bounty

Fall Harvest Festivals in Colorado, Best Events for Celebrating Autumn

Colorado's fall harvest festivals are a treasure trove of cultural experiences and visual delights. Capture the energy of the events as you photograph lively farmers' markets, folk performances, and vibrant decorations. Whether you're exploring the Telluride Film Festival or the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival, these celebrations offer a diverse range of content creation opportunities.

7. Scenic Train Rides: Chasing Fall's Colors on Rails

Scenic Train Rides in Colorado, Fall Foliage Views from Trains

Embark on a scenic train ride that traverses Colorado's autumn landscapes. Capture the nostalgic charm of vintage trains like the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or the Georgetown Loop Railroad. The rhythmic motion of the train and the ever-changing scenery offer a unique opportunity to capture the beauty of fall from a moving perspective.

8. Mountain Biking: Thrilling Through Fall's Beauty

Mountain Biking in Colorado, Fall Adventures on Two Wheels

For adventurous souls, fall is the perfect time to hit the trails on a mountain bike. The crisp air, the crunch of fallen leaves under your wheels, and the colorful surroundings create an exhilarating experience that's worth capturing. Trails like the Colorado Trail or the Monarch Crest Trail provide both adrenaline and stunning visuals as you capture the essence of fall while in motion.

9. Great American Beer Festival: Sipping Autumn's Brews

The Great American Beer Festival in Denver is a convergence of hops, flavors, and camaraderie that marks a memorable fall experience. Capture the spirit of this festival as you document the myriad of craft brews, passionate brewers, and lively atmosphere. The interplay of colors in the beer, the joy on attendees' faces, and the energy of the event all come together to create a visual narrative that reflects the vibrancy of fall's festivities. This festival typically happens in September and tickets sell out fast.

10. Visit Estes Park: Autumn's Retreat in the Mountains

Estes Park, nestled against the backdrop of Rocky Mountain National Park, offers a serene escape that encapsulates the magic of fall. Whether you're exploring the historic streets or photographing the elk that roam freely, every moment in Estes Park is a canvas for capturing the serenity and beauty of autumn in the mountains.

11. Visit the Stanley Hotel: Fall's Eerie Charm

The historic Stanley Hotel in Estes Park offers an opportunity to capture the allure of fall with a touch of intrigue. Explore the iconic hotel and its surroundings, documenting the historic architecture, the stunning views, and the unique ambiance that evokes both beauty and mystery. Stephen King based his famous novel The Shining on his own spooky experience here. Take a historic daytime tour of the estate, or an evening ghost tour, if you dare.

12. Oktoberfest Celebrations: Capturing German-inspired Festivities

Oktoberfest celebrations in Colorado provide a unique blend of tradition, culture, and fall festivities. From Denver's Oktoberfest to celebrations in Boulder County and beyond, capture the lively scenes of beer gardens, oompah bands, and traditional Bavarian attire. The fusion of vibrant colors, joyful dances, and the heartwarming camaraderie of these events offers ample opportunities for captivating photography. This is a fun activity in Colorado that you can do between September and October.

In conclusion, Colorado's fall activities in town offer a rich tapestry of experiences for creative travelers eager to capture the magic of the season. From leaf peeping to yoga retreats, every activity provides a canvas for crafting captivating content that resonates with the beauty of autumn. As you embark on your fall adventures, let your lens tell the story of the changing seasons and the vibrant energy that infuses the landscapes of Colorado, open your creativity, and discover new things to create and do in the morning, afternoon, and night, in this state.