3 Picturesque Ways to Enjoy Fall in Colorado

I love fall, and it’s not just because Colorado turns lovely shades of red and gold. I enjoy the snap in the air, the sound of crispy leaves under foot, and football. 

Here are a few ways to make the most of one of Colorado’s most glorious seasons. 

Grand Lake, Colorado [Photo by Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer]

It never occurred to me until a few years ago that viewing autumn colors from a boat is a wonderful option in states like Colorado. There are a few places where fall really shines from the bow of a boat.

The Town of Grand Lake can be busy in the summer, but the pace slows in the fall, making it an ideal time to visit. As Colorado’s largest and deepest lake, Grand Lake is a playground for everyone who loves water sports and fishing.

Visitors can rent a pontoon boat from Headwaters Marina or take one of their lake tours. A tour allows you to sit back and relax while some else does the captaining. 

Another large lake that offers stunning autumn views is Lake Dillon. Boats can be rented at the Frisco Marina or Dillon Marina, and tours are offered, as well. Imagine a Sunset Sailing Tour complete with postcard-perfect fall views—you can do that on Lake Dillon.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado [Photo courtesy SBRC]

As the weather cools, hiking one of Colorado’s trails becomes even more desirable, especially if you’re bringing along Fido. Steamboat Springs has more than 80 trails to choose from, and there’s everything from easy-breezy hikes you can do with the family to hardcore outings with a heavy-laden backpack.

Steamboat Springs has a website dedicated to making your next hike in Routt County one to remember. The site includes an interactive trail map, family hiking guide and locals’ favorite hiking trails. It’s time to get out on the trail this year and take in the view.

Breckenridge, Colorado [Photo courtesy Breckenridge]

You don’t have to be a crazed downhill fanatic to take a spin in one of Colorado’s mountain towns. In fact, one of my most memorable bike outings was in Breckenridge, Colorado. We did a fat bike tour with Ridden that involved biking between breweries and distilleries. This is a super-fun way to see the town year-round. This guided tour also includes tidbits about the history of the region. No pads are required.

Breckenridge is spectacular in autumn and also offers an array of fall festivals such as their famous Oktoberfest, the Breck Film Fest, the Breckenridge Wine Classic and the Craft Spirits Festival.