See Fall Colors in Rocky Mountain National Park

This post is about seeing fall colors in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The Rocky Mountains are a wonderful place to be during the fall season. There is nothing short of spectacular views here during the fall foliage season; autumn is a great time to see the aspen leaves color change along with cooler temperatures and timid weather conditions. In this post I will highlight which fall months are the perfect time to visit along with my favorite fall hikes and scenic drives.

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Table of Contents

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Best Time to Visit RMNP for Fall Colors

The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park for fall colors is mid September to Early October. Fall foliage is usually at its peak during this time. While its hard to predict exactly when the leaves will change, doing research ahead of time can help you choose the best time to visit the park. Fall in RMNP consists of blue skies, crisp air and generally dry weather. Trail Ridge Road typically closes around mid-October.

Know Before You Go

- Timed Entry Reservations are required. To enter the park you must have a timed entry permit during peak visiting season. A timed entry pass guarantees entry to the park at the time you select. The Rocky Mountain National Park offers two different permits: Timed Entry and Timed Entry Plus. Timed entry is access to everywhere in the park except Bear Lake Road, running from May 24 to October 14, 9am to 2pm. Timed Entry Plus is entry to the entire park including Bear Lake Road, running from May 24 to October 20, 5am to 6pm. For more information and to book your permit, check out this link here.
- Be Weather Aware. Weather can change rapidly in Rocky Mountain National Park due to its high elevation changes. Visiting any time besides summer means snow and ice and snowstorm possibilities. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, dress appropriately, and bring adequate supplies if you’re hiking backcountry.
- Watch for Wildlife. Elk mating season starts in September and can continue through October. This means you’ll have a high chance on seeing Elk when in the park! There’s tons of other animals who are at home in the park like bighorn sheep, coyotes, mountain lions, and birds as well as endangered species like the Canada Lynx, Greenback Cutthroat Trout, North American Wolverine, and the Mexican Spotted Owl. There are also bears in the park so be sure to stay bear aware! Consider bringing bear spray with you and know how to use it in case of an encounter.

Where to Stay Near RMNP

Check out this post to decide on which town near RMNP is best for you!

Luxury Option

The Landing at Estes Park – Riverside Retreat

The Landing is a fantastic option for those looking for a more luxurious experience when visiting the park. They have rooms with panoramic views, fireplaces, saunas, balconies, patios, free wifi, and a rustic cabin aesthetic. It is also in a great location right outside of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Click here to book.

Standard Option

Hotel Estes

Hotel Estes is a great option for those looking for a nice place to sleep at an affordable price without sacrificing amenities. There is free breakfast here along with a pool, spa tub, free wifi, comfortable beds, and pet friendly options. It is also in a great location close to the park and downtown Estes Park.

Click here to book.

Scenic Drives for Fall Foliage in the Rockies

Bear Lake Road

The Bear Lake Road corridor is one of the most visited areas in Rocky Mountain National Park. It is a 23 mile road trip route with a paved road that climbs 8,200 feet above sea level. Along this scenic road you will find access to hikes Bear Lake, Alberta Falls and Wild Basin. Several gorgeous golden aspen trees litter the side of the road making for a true sight to see!

Trail Ridge Road

Trail Ridge Road is one of the most beautiful scenic roads in the United States and absolutely a must see if you’re visiting RMNP. Unfortunately the road frequently closes due to inclement weather and is impassable from mid-October to May. Nicknamed “The Highway to the Sky,” this is a perfect route for leaf-peeping and a unique experience all around. The scenic drive is 48 miles long connecting Estes Park to Grand Lake. Take at least a half day to explore this fun drive.

Old Fall River Road

Old Fall River Road is a one way dirt path that begins near the entrance to RMNP and ends at the Alpine Visitor Center and Trail Ridge Road. This is the perfect warm up to Trail Ridge! The speed limit is a slow and steady 15 mph so sit back, relax and spend your time gazing at the beautifully colored leaves and mountain views.

Best Hikes for Fall Colors in RMNP

Alberta Falls

Distance: 0.6 mile

Elevation Gain: 210 ft

Type of Trail: Out & Back via the Glacier Gorge Trailhead

Alberta Falls is a popular hike in the park but for a good reason. You will experience gorgeous Aspen groves, a 30 ft waterfall, mountain views, and bubbling Glacier Creek. The trail begins at Glacier Gorge Trailhead which is south of Bear Lake. If desired, you can continue on this trail to the Loch Lake, which is detailed below.

The Loch

Distance: 3.1 miles one-way
Elevation Gain: 999 ft
Type of Trail: Out & Back via the Glacier Gorge Trailhead

The Loch is one of three lakes that make up the scenic Loch Vale. This is one of the best hikes to take for ultimate autumn vibes. The hike is moderate with almost 1,000 feet in elevation gain and several switchbacks. The lake is absolutely stunning to see in the fall glittered by gold aspens and surrounded by the peaks and glaciers of the Continental Divide. This subalpine lake is 10,000 feet above sea level with views of Sharktooth Mountain, Thatchtop Mountain, and Taylor Peak.

Bear Lake

Distance: 0.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 20 ft
Type of Trail: loop trail around Bear Lake, benches located along the way

Bear Lake is one of the most popular parts of the park. Due to its easy and short yet beautifully scenic hike, it is usually quite the popular spot. Keep in mind, like stated earlier in this post, you need a Timed Entry Plus ticket to enter anywhere along Bear Lake Road. Expect granite mountaintop views and colorful aspens surrounding the lake and even mirroring their reflection, if you’re lucky.

Twin Sisters

Distance: 7.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,338 ft
Type of Trail: Out and Back, Strenuous

This hike may be a difficult one but it certainly is rewarding. The trail is forested and rocky, with multiple switchbacks. The last push to the top of the mountain consists of a rock scramble, but its worth it for the incredible panoramic views of Mount Meeker, Longs Peak, Estes Cone, and the Continental Divide. Since this is a summit hike, be sure to take your time to let your body adapt to the altitude to prevent sickness.

Deer Mountain

Distance: 3 miles one-way
Elevation Gain: 1,083 feet
Type of Trail: Out & Back

Deer Mountain reaches a summit of 10,013 feet above sea level surrounded by ponderosa pines and views of Longs Peak, Moraine Park, Upper Beavers Meadows, and Estes Park. This is a great option if you want to climb a summit with a little shorter of a hike. The beginning of this trail starts through open meadows with glittering with yellow and orange aspens. As you continue on, watch out for wildlife, and give yourself a pep talk as the elevation increases. The view at the summit is worth the hike! Be wary of sudden developing storms as Deer Mountain is the most lightning-struck mountain in the park.

Conclusion

As you can see there are tons of options to see gorgeous bright yellow and golden aspens during this time of year in Rocky Mountain National Park in Northern Colorado. Visit alpine lakes, see alpine tundra, views of the continental divide, thick aspen forest, the best spots for fall foliage and more in this incredible national park.

See Fall Colors in Rocky Mountain National Park

Some links on this page may be affiliate links.

Best Time to Visit RMNP for Fall Colors

Know Before You Go