24 Sep Best Fall Color Hikes in Colorado
Looking for opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the crisp fall weather? Our state is beautiful all year round, but the colors of nature are especially gorgeous during this season. Whether you’d like to stay close to home in Broomfield or you’re ready for a road trip, the hiking routes we share here are sure to offer spectacular views.
Fern Lake Trail
If you’d like to take a road trip to northern Colorado, stop by Fern Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or you’re simply looking for a short trip, this trail has options for you. During the fall, the lower trail is bursting with golden leaves that overlook the river. A spot known as “the pool” is just 1.7 miles along the way and serves as a great stopping point for those needing a quick hike. If you’re feeling ambitious, continue climbing along the trail until you reach the cliffs that overlook Odessa Lake.
Black Bear and Horseshoe Loop
Need to stay close to Broomfield? Black Bear and Horseshoe Loop is located near Denver in Golden Gate State Park. The trails here are secluded and generally sparsely populated, making this location the perfect destination for those seeking solitude. As you make your way through the dense foliage of Black Bear Loop, you’ll get an up-close-and-personal view of the colorful leaves along the way. The trail culminates with an open meadow and a historic homestead site.
Royal Arch Trail
Royal Arch Trail in Boulder’s Chautauqua Park is an excellent option for exploring during the early morning hours. This popular trail is typically crowded during the weekends, and for good reason. Although it’s a short hike of 3.5 miles, its high elevation makes views of the Flatirons incredible. On this hike, you’ll meander through a grassy field until you find your way into the wooded area that takes you past rock formations and a flagstone staircase.
I-70 Corridor
If you’d like to take your bicycle or horse on the trails, consider making the 1.5-hour trip to Winter Park to experience the trails along the I-70 corridor. Even if you’re hiking on foot, these trails are worth the drive. You’ll begin on Arapahoe Trailhead near Vasquez Road and make your way through the vivid golden and red foliage to the Vasquez Peak Wilderness boundary.
The trails mentioned here are just a small sample of what our state has to offer. We’re home to an abundance of excellent hiking destinations, so there’s no shortage of exploring to be had this fall. Whether you plan to stay close to home or take a day trip, you’ll need a convenient resting or meeting place. The Turnpike Shops at ARISTA are located in the heart of Broomfield, making our development the ideal location for fueling up with a cup of coffee or a little shopping. Ready to plan your visit? Contact us today to learn more.