Ask any Colorado local their favorite season and most will say fall. September and October bring perfect weather - warm days in the 60s and 70s, cool nights, stable conditions, and fewer crowds than summer. The state puts on its most spectacular display as millions of aspen trees turn brilliant gold.
Fall colors typically peak mid-September to early October, starting at higher elevations and working down. Entire mountainsides glow gold against blue skies. Scenic drives like Kebler Pass, Independence Pass, and the Dallas Divide become bucket-list destinations. Photographers book hotels a year in advance.
It's also elk rut season. In Estes Park and throughout the mountains, bull elk bugle their haunting calls, competing for mates in dramatic displays of antlers and attitude. Wildlife watching reaches its peak as animals prepare for winter.