Nature's Paintbrush: 5 Fabulous Places to View Fall Colors Around Denver

Colorado's scenery is breathtaking any time of the year, but it may be at its most spectacular during fall. Enjoy the season with a color tour at one of these amazing spots near our Springs Denver luxury apartment communities.

1. Cache la Poudre North Park
18.3 miles from Springs at 2534

The Cache la Poudre scenic byway follows the river of the same name, one of less than one percent of national waterways to receive the federal Wild & Scenic Rivers designation. The ruggedness of the canyon is balanced by idyllic pastures and alpine meadows. Keep your eyes open for the bighorn sheep, coyotes, moose and elk that populate the park.

2. Ouzel Falls
Rocky Mountain National Park
46.7 miles from Springs at 2534

The namesake of this trail is a graceful 40-foot cascade over a cliffside in Rocky Mountain National Park. Other sights on the 5.4-mile trail include three more waterfalls along with mountain peaks and alpine meadows. For a more challenging hike, take the seven-mile route to Bluebird Lake. The park is open 24/7 and a day pass is $20.

3. Cherry Creek Trail
46.5 miles from Springs at Sandstone Ranch

Cherry Creek Trail is a 42-mile paved path that was named by USA Today as one of the top five bike trails in the United States. The trail starts in downtown Denver, winding its way through the natural greenbelt running alongside Cherry Creek. After dividing to circle the reservoir at Cherry Creek State Park, the trails once again unite and continue down to Franktown. Bikers also have the option to follow one of several intersecting trails.

4. Golden Gate Canyon State Park
92 Crawford Gulch Rd, Golden
303.582.3707
56.9 miles from Springs at Sandstone Ranch

The highlight of this stunning 12,000-acre park is Panorama Point Scenic Overlook, which provides visitors with a 100-mile view of the Continental Divide. There are more than 35 miles of hiking trails, with 19 miles designated as multiple use for biking and horseback riding. If you want to extend your visit, overnight camping is available as well as cabins, yurts and a guest house for rental. Park hours are 5 a.m. – 10 p.m. and a day pass is $7.

5. Maroon Bells
White River National Forest
806 W Hallam, Aspen
970.925.3445
190 miles from Springs at Sandstone Ranch

The twin mountain peaks and crystal-clear reflecting lake that make up the Maroon Bells form one of the most iconic landscapes in Colorado. One of five state areas designated in the Wilderness Act of 1964, the Maroon Bells are a favorite of photographers throughout the country. There are a number of hiking trails, and the picnic site offers views of stone cliffs and forests. The Welcome Station is open 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. and there is a $10 vehicle entry fee.

Do you have a favorite fall site to add to our list? Tell us in the comments!