(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — Peak fall color viewing time is coming up this weekend, Saturday, Sept. 27, and Sunday, Sept. 28, and local outdoor expert, “Hiking Bob” Falcone, has provided a list of his favorite locations for enjoying the autumn display.
Hiking Bob said that the trails at the north end of Mueller State Park are at the top of his list, as they have the highest concentration of aspen trees within an hour of Colorado Springs. The Buffalo Rock, Cahill Pond, Moonshine trails, and the southern portion of the Cheesman Ranch trail are all excellent hikes for viewing fall colors. Mueller State Park does require entrance fees or the Keep Colorado Wild Pass, and dogs are not allowed on any trails in the park.
Horsethief Park, off of the Horsethief Falls/Pancake Rocks Trail, is also a favorite of Hiking Bob’s, as it offers a mix of aspens and bushes that turn a variety of colors, and it has the backdrop of Sentinel Peak. For those looking for prime photo options, there is a pond with a grove of aspens behind it about a mile up the trail, and on a calm day, the reflections are lovely. As this is a popular trail, parking is somewhat limited, and going on a weekday will provide a better chance at finding a spot.
Hiking Bob said that the Mount Esther Trail in Crowe Gulch off of the Pikes Peak Highway is often bypassed by people in a hurry to get to the summit, making it a good option for those who don’t want to share the trail with the crowds. The trail passes through a vast meadow with plenty of aspens to see. As a bonus tip, Hiking Bob says it’s a great place to hike in the summer as well, when the wildflowers are in bloom.
Midland Loop at Eleven Mile State Park is known mostly for its fishing and camping opportunities, according to Hiking Bob, but it also has a small trail system that’s very pleasant and an easy hike. A nice grove of aspens offers beautiful autumn views at the north end, as well as huge rock cliffs and Eleven Mile Reservoir. The park requires entry fees or the Keep Colorado Wild Pass, and leashed dogs are allowed, so bring the pup along.
For those who want to view the autumn leaves without committing to a hike, Hiking Bob listed several favorite mountain drives, including Cottonwood Pass, Chalk Creek to St. Elmo, Boreas Pass, and Weston Pass, which doesn’t require Four Wheel Drive, but low-clearance vehicles should avoid. According to Hiking Bob, visitors shouldn’t wait beyond the end of September to catch the peak fall colors for these routes, but Cucharas Pass, which is a little further south, peaks a week or two after, so it’s a good option for the late-comers.
Everyone driving in the mountains to search for beautiful fall panoramas should keep driving safety top of mind. According to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), hundreds of injuries and deaths have been caused by drivers distracted by the beautiful views or speeding down winding mountain roads. CSP gave safety tips to drivers as they travel to view the fall leaves, advising on subjects such as navigating steep turns and blind corners.
Hiking Bob noted that not all of Colorado’s fall colors come from aspen trees, and if you miss the peak aspen season in the high country, you can still catch the oaks, willows, scrub oak, cottonwoods, and other foliage in the lower elevations. In the Colorado Springs area, there are several options for viewing the autumn display, such as Bear Creek Canyon and North Cheyenne Cañon Park.
In terms of safety, Hiking Bob urged people to store food properly if camping, as bears are preparing for hibernation and they are highly food-motivated right now. Hikers should keep dogs on a leash to keep them safe, as moose and elk are in rut and can be dangerous during this season. Moose see dogs as predators and may become very aggressive. Moose encounters have resulted in serious injuries or death for dogs and their owners.
Hikers should also prepare for temperature drops when the sun goes down by having layers readily available in their backpacks or car.
