Colorado offers many beautiful landscapes in every season but arguably none of them take the cake like autumn does. When those deciduous trees start the process of shedding their leaves it first begins with a spectacle of color change that is iconic.
As we gear up for the season, we want you to have this leaf peeping guide with 4 locations in and near the Colorado Springs area so you can fully enjoy the season. We also added some ideas on how to best enjoy each location.
Garden of the Gods:
The Garden of the Gods is magnificent any time of year but there are a few spots in the garden where you can catch a high up view of the surrounding areas which, in turn, is perfect for leaf peeping season.
High Point:
High Point is a popular spot in the Garden that offers unobstructed views of Pikes Peak as well as some stunning rock formations.
Pack a cozy blanket and find a spot on one of the rocks or just sit in your car, put on your favorite Bon Iver song and marvel at the beauty.
647 Ridge Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Mesa Overlook:
Mesa overlook is another popular spot that overlooks more of the Garden. There are unparalleled views of the famous Kissing Camels as well as all of the trees in the surrounding area. You can see for miles.
Grab your camera, because you are going to want to take pictures of this one. We recommend going at sunrise to avoid crowds or sunset to couple the leaf peeping with a colorful Colorado sunset.
3586-3604 Mesa Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Rainbow Gulch Trail:
Although this location requires is a little bit of a drive, but we promise it’s worth it. With Aspen trees lining the trail the whole way to Rampart Reservoir you won’t want to skip this one.
This is a 3.5 mile out-and-back trail with a little under 300ft of gain. You can do the whole trail or just a part of it.
You’ll want to pack a delicious picnic and a cozy blanket. There are plenty of places to pull off trail and have a cozy lunch. Don’t forget to Leave No Trace. What you pack in, be prepared to pack out!
You can find directions and more info here.
North Cheyenne Cañon:
If you are looking to be snug between gorgeous canon walls with towering trees and calming creek, then this is the spot for you. North Cheyenne Cañon offers approximately 56 miles of trails for you to explore with varying difficulty levels.
Bring a baggie or something to collect fallen leaves in so you can press them in a book when you get home. For a super chill fall experience that recharges your soul, we recommend finding a spot by the creek, setting up your hammock, so you can read your favorite book and sip your favorite hot beverage. It doesn’t get much better and more relaxing than that.
There are more spots to hang your hammock on the lower part of the Cañon before you reach the Mt. Cutler trailhead. For hiking trail recommendations, you can view them here.
2120 S Cheyenne Canyon Rd
Mueller State Park:
Another one that we guarantee is worth the drive. With over 5,117 acres to explore a visit to this State Park can easily be an all-day trip. There are rolling hills, views of Pikes Peak, aspen forests and gorgeous rock outcroppings. They have bathrooms and picnic tables throughout the park and a visitor center with excellent views. It does cost to get into the park. For a 1 day pass it’s $10 per vehicle or if you have the Keep Colorado Wild Pass it is included in the $29 annual fee. For more info you can visit their website.
For this one we recommend packing your camera, a picnic, lots of water and binoculars if you have them. Not only is this location excellent for leaf peeping but you can also find some really cool wildlife here.
21045 CO-67, Divide, CO 80814
More information:
Want to know when the best time to do your autumn leaf peeping adventures? Or maybe you want some more ideas on locations? The Visit Colorado Springs website has tons of great information.
As always, please remember to be respectful of our nature spaces and the other people enjoying them. Pack out your trash, take only pictures, plan properly, and have fun. For more info on how you can respect nature check out our blog A Coloradan’s Guide to the Leave No Trace Principles.
Want an awesome Autumn Playlist? Check out this one on Spotify.
Cheers!