Just because many of the aspens have peaked doesn't mean there aren't still an abundance of rich autumn colors out there to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Here are 10 (mountain) country roads near Denver that flaunt fall foliage like you wouldn't believe and are simply perfect for a refreshing sunrise drive or a relaxing sunset cruise.
1. Peak to Peak Scenic and Historic Byway
Established in 1918, Peak to Peak Highway is Colorado's oldest scenic byway and affords views of the Continental Divide and fall colors that are unmatched. Peak to Peak Highway runs from Estes Park to just south of Black Hawk and travels through the Rocky Mountain National Park, Golden Gate Canyon, the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, and the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area.
(Pictured: Grays and Torreys from the intersection of Golden Gate Canyon Road and Peak to Peak Highway, just north of Black Hawk and Central City.)
2. Golden Gate Canyon
Golden Gate Canyon Road (Highway 46) is an excellent spot for viewing fall brilliancy like you've never seen! Be sure to explore the area and take additional routes, such as Crawford Gulch Road and Mountain Base Road into Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
3. Gap Road
Gap Road joins Peak to Peak Highway with Coal Creek Canyon Road (Highway 72) and boasts some of the most awe-inspiring autumn views imaginable. The route travels through Golden Gate Canyon State Park, with one of the highlights being Panorama Point, a prime spot to watch the sun drop below the horizon on the Continental Divide.
4. Rollins Pass
Off Peak-toPeak at Rollinsville is yet another fantastic little detour, Tolland Road, which leads to the East Portal and Moffat Tunnel with the additional option of taking Rollins Pass Road further into the wilds.
5. Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road winds through the strikingly unique Rocky Mountain National Park and is the highest continuous paved road in North America. From Estes Park on the east side to Grand Lake on the west, you'll see Colorado's fall foliage, mountain peaks, and wildlife from vantage points that are truly unforgettable.
6. Bear Lake Road
The high aspen groves that line the road to Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park also make a lovely additional to your leisurely leaf-peeping route and a great spot for a picnic.
7. Kenosha Pass
Kenosha Pass off Highway 285 between Grant and Jefferson is a must-peruse pass perched at 10,000 feet, which also offers miles and miles of hiking trails.
8. Guanella Pass
The incomparable Guanella Pass can be accessed from I-70 or US-285 and most definitely boasts some of the most brilliant autumn amazingness the state has to offer. There are also an abundance of pristine hiking trails off this pass, so be sure to don your boots.
9. Boreas Pass
The annual autumn pilgrimage to Boreas Pass between Como and Breckenridge is one of the most stunning drives you will ever do and one that gets me flat out giddy.
10. Independence Pass
Independence Pass may be a bit of a haul from Denver, but the variety of vibrant fall colors you'll encounter make it well worth the effort. Hop on the pass just south of Leadville near Twin Lakes and wind your way to an elevation of 12,095 feet on the Continental Divide, where you can get out and explore on foot on a network of trails. From there you can continue on to Aspen or make your way back to Denver, perhaps through Minturn and Copper.
Now, how about 10 Waterfront Spots Around Denver that are just lovely for a crisp fall day?
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