For even more scenic drives, check out our 26 scenic and historic byways, including our EV-friendly routes.
1. Trail Ridge Road
The highest continuous paved road in North America winds through Rocky Mountain National Park from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west. With more than 8 miles above 11,000 feet and a maximum elevation of 12,183 feet, Trail Ridge Road is an amazing vantage point for leaf peepers and is a favored spot for photographers. It's also electric-vehicle ready, so charge up and get ready to roll. The Rocky Mountain Conservancy offers guided hikes and tours and volunteer opportunities in the park.
2. Photographer’s Favorite: Kebler Pass
Gunnison is home to Kebler Pass, which boasts one of the largest aspen groves in North America and is a favorite snap spot for renowned photographer John Fielder. Ohio Creek Road is a great starting point, as it passes some unique natural landscapes, including a series of ranch buildings marking the abandoned site of Castleton and the spires of “The Castles” — remnants of volcanic ash and mud that erupted from the West Elk Volcano some 30 million years ago. Note: The pass is unpaved and closed in winter.
3. The San Juan Skyway
San Juan Skyway, a breathtaking 236-mile loop through the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado, offers visitors an amazing array of fall colors and includes a 70-mile stretch known simply as the Million Dollar Highway. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers rides that coincide with optimal fall foliage. Another unique way to experience Colorado’s fall colors is with Soaring® Tree Top Adventures, home to 27 zip lines that pass by brilliant aspens.
4. Maroon Bells
The iconic Maroon Bells, two towering 14,000-foot mountains nestled in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, are the most photographed peaks in North America. Located in the 2.3-million-acre White River National Forest, the Maroon Bells tower over numerous hiking trails that offer unbeatable views of golden aspen trees. Note that reservations are recommended to see this site. Learn more about Maroon Bells reservations
5. Western Slope Colors
Colorado’s Western Slope is home to the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain, and Colorado wine country. In addition to the reds, whites and rosés made in Grand Junction and Palisade, fall brings with it glorious colors. Powderhorn Mountain Resort's vibrant scrub oaks contrast with golden shimmering aspens along Grand Mesa scenic and historic byway, which is one of the state's electric-vehicle-friendly byways.