Colorado’s 2025 Fall Color Guide: A Local’s Take on When to See the Peak
One of the best things about living in Colorado is watching the leaves turn each fall. As someone who has called Boulder home for decades, I can tell you there’s nothing quite like our golden aspens lighting up the mountains. Every year, people ask: When is the best time to see the colors? Thanks to the latest forecast, we now have a pretty good idea for 2025.
Meteorologists say that this year the leaves will change 5–10 days earlier than normal. That’s because of cooler nights and some drought stress. In simple terms: the colors will show up sooner, so don’t wait too long to plan your drives and hikes.
What the Dates Mean
The forecast map breaks Colorado into regions, each with an estimated peak window. Here’s what that means in everyday language:
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Sept 12 – Sept 24 (light yellow): Northern mountain towns like Steamboat and Meeker will see colors first.
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Sept 15 – Sept 25 (yellow): Areas around Fort Collins, Boulder, and Denver should hit their peak mid-to-late September.
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Sept 18 – Sept 28 (orange): Central mountain towns like Aspen, Frisco, and Eagle will be glowing gold during this time.
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Sept 20 – Sept 30 (red-orange): Salida, Colorado Springs, and nearby areas will follow right after.
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Sept 25 – Oct 3 (brown): Southern valleys, including Trinidad and Alamosa, should hit peak color late September into early October.
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Oct 1 – Oct 9 (dark red): The San Juans in the southwest, including Telluride and Durango, will be some of the last — but often the most stunning — to peak.
My Favorite Local Spots
Here in Boulder, one of the easiest ways to enjoy the colors is a quick drive up Flagstaff Mountain or a stroll through Chautauqua Park. If you’re willing to go a little farther, the Peak to Peak Highway is a classic fall drive that never disappoints.
In the mountains, Aspen lives up to its name, but I also recommend lesser-known gems like Nederland and Niwot for quieter views that are just as beautiful. The best part? These are all close to communities where I help clients find homes — so you can pair leaf-peeping with exploring new neighborhoods.
Why It Matters
Colorado’s fall colors aren’t just about scenery. They’re about lifestyle. Living here means being able to step outside and experience one of nature’s best shows right in your backyard. It’s part of what makes Boulder and surrounding areas such a desirable place to live — a mix of natural beauty, community spirit, and year-round activities.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to catch the colors this year, remember: they’re arriving earlier than usual. Mark your calendar for mid-to-late September, especially if you’re in Boulder or heading into the central mountains. And if you’re considering a move here, fall is the perfect time to explore neighborhoods — you’ll see the community at its most vibrant.
Ready to experience Boulder living surrounded by nature’s beauty? Let’s connect and find your perfect home while the leaves are at their peak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the leaves changing earlier this year?
A: Cooler nights and drought stress are causing trees to change color about 5–10 days earlier than usual.
Q: When is the best time to see peak colors in Boulder?
A: Boulder and nearby areas like Denver and Fort Collins should see peak color between Sept 15 – Sept 25, 2025.
Q: Where are the best places near Boulder to see fall colors?
A: Flagstaff Mountain, Chautauqua Park, and the Peak to Peak Highway are all local favorites.
Q: Do all areas of Colorado peak at the same time?
A: No. Northern mountain towns peak first in mid-September, while southern areas like Durango and Telluride peak in early October.
Q: Why do people love leaf-peeping in Colorado?
A: The aspen groves turn entire hillsides golden, creating one of the most scenic fall landscapes in the country.
Sources
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CBS Colorado – Fall Color Forecast Guide 2025 (Meteorologist Joe Ruch)
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Colorado Tourism Office – https://www.colorado.com
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National Weather Service Climate Data – https://www.weather.gov
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