Colorado fall colors could arrive early in 2026: Here's when to go
Colorado's fall colors could arrive earlier than usual this year.
If you take the same leaf-peeping trip every September, consider moving it up about a week in 2026.
A hot, dry year has left many aspens stressed, which can cause leaves to change color earlier. More than three-quarters of Colorado is currently experiencing severe, exceptional, or worse conditions.
When to see Colorado fall colors
These are viewing windows, not exact peak dates. The best color will generally come closer to the middle or end of each range.
Sept. 10-22: Steamboat Springs, Cameron Pass and Rabbit Ears Pass
Sept. 13-24: Rocky Mountain National Park, Peak to Peak Highway and mountains west of Boulder and Denver
Sept. 16-28: Aspen, Vail, Summit County and the central mountains
Sept. 18-29: Gunnison, Crested Butte, Telluride and Ouray
Sept. 23-Oct. 3: Pikes Peak, mountains west of Colorado Springs and the southern Front Range
Sept. 29-Oct. 8: Durango, Pagosa Springs and the southern San Juans.
Elevation matters
Colorado's fall colors do not change all at once. They move downhill.
Aspens around 10,000 feet and higher usually turn first. Mountain towns and scenic drives around 8,000 to 9,500 feet follow, while lower valleys generally hold onto green leaves longer.
That can actually help if you miss peak color.
If the top of a mountain pass is already past peak, head lower. If the valley is still green, head higher.
If you've taken some great photos of fall foliage, we'd love to see them! Share them by using the QR code above.
