By Carin Smit, Owner
When it comes to soaking in Colorado’s famous fall colors, nothing beats traveling in a van. For vanlifers and road trip lovers, leaf-peeping season is more than just scenic - it’s an invitation to explore the Rockies in peak golden glow. Whether you’re heading out for the weekend or chasing color for weeks, this guide highlights some of the best leaf-peeping drives and hikes in Colorado!
Top Leaf-Peeping Van Drives and Hikes in Colorado
1. Kebler Pass (Crested Butte Area)
Drive: One of the world’s largest aspen groves. This scenic dirt road (County Road 12) is jaw-dropping.
Hike: Three Lakes Trail (3.4-mile loop) at Lost Lake. It’s family-friendly, with lakes and stunning aspen views.
Best time: Late September to early October
2. Maroon Bells (Aspen)
Drive/Access: Shuttle-only zone (reservation required) from Aspen Highlands. Worth it for the classic view of the Bells reflecting in Maroon Lake.
Hike: Crater Lake Trail (3.6 miles round trip) meanders through glowing aspen groves.
Best time: Late September
3. San Juan Skyway / Million Dollar Highway
Route: Ouray → Silverton → Durango
Drive: This alpine loop is pure magic, with fiery aspens and towering peaks.
Hike: Bear Creek Trail in Telluride (5 miles round trip) starts from downtown and leads through golden forests to a waterfall.
Best time: Late September
4. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
Route: Estes Park → Nederland → Black Hawk
Drive: Easy access from Denver or Boulder. Winding roads and wide aspen groves with epic mountain backdrops.
Hike: Golden Gate Canyon State Park’s Raccoon Loop (~3 miles) offers sweeping views and bright foliage.
Best time: Mid to late September
5. Guanella Pass (Georgetown - Grant)
Drive: A paved road with striking views and dense aspen stands.
Hike: Start of Abyss Lake Trail. Even the first 2–3 miles are packed with color.
Best time: Mid to late September
6. Kenosha Pass
Location: Off Hwy 285 near South Park
Drive: Incredibly popular for its classic “aspen tunnels.”
Hike: Stretches of the Colorado Trail wind through vibrant groves. You can go short or long depending on your mood.
Best time: Mid to late September
Why Explore Colorado Fall Colors in a Vansmith Van?
Vans offer the flexibility, comfort, and mobility to chase the fall color change across elevations and regions. With features like modular sleeping setups, solar power, and space for all your gear, these vans are ideal for weekend warriors and full-time adventurers alike.
The Vansmith, based in Boulder, Colorado, specializes in crafting premium vans that are ready for fall road trips and beyond. We know Colorado—because we live and breathe it. From biking the Peak to Peak to hiking Telluride’s backcountry, our team designs vans for real outdoor life.
We’ve helped hundreds of vanlifers hit the road in vans designed for adventure. Whether you’re chasing fall colors, skiing powder lines, or heading out for a summer climb, our vans are built to roam further.
Check out our in-stock vans or reach out to talk to our team: www.thevansmith.com
Tips for Fall Vanlife Adventures in Colorado
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Reserve Ahead: Some areas (like Maroon Bells) require reservations.
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Check Elevation: Colors peak earlier at higher altitudes.
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Pack Layers: Mornings can be freezing, even when days are sunny.
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Use Apps: Try Gaia GPS or AllTrails for offline trail maps.
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Stay Flexible: Road conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
Let the aspens guide you.
