When do leaves change color in Colorado? This is the biggest burning question on everyone’s minds every fall. Fall in Colorado is spectacular and full of color. I love taking leaf-peeping drives in our great state – but it’s so important to time them just right. If you go a few days too early, you won’t see the peak. If you go a few days too late, well, you might just miss it all. It’s wise to consult a foliage map if you’re planning a mountain drive this fall to try to ensure that you’re right on time. This Colorado Fall Foliage Map 2023 will be a big help to you – but read on, too, as I tell you this year’s predictions for various parts of the state. Happy fall, everyone!
Fall in Colorado is so special! Because so many of the trees in our state are coniferous, the deciduous trees that DO change color really pop!
Temperatures in the mountains get cold quickly, though, so leaves that were green one day may be on the ground already just a few days later. If you want to see the colors, you'll have to time it JUST right.
In the southern Front Range, the Colorado Springs area won't hit its peak foliage period until the end of October. Expect to see it around October 30th.
The highest parts of the state will see peak foliage earlier than the lower areas since it's colder earlier up there. Vail residents can look for peak foliage around October 9th.
Of course, foliage predictions are not an exact science by any means. These predictions could be spot on, or they could be off by a week or two in either direction. It's all guesses, after all, and they're all dependent on the weather.
So, now you know the answer to the question: when do leaves change in Colorado in 2023? Start planning a road trip to check them out this fall – and be sure to bring your camera. Fall is incredible! Get out and enjoy it! And – don’t forget to bring some snacks! Best Road Trip Snacks: 50 On-The-Go Food Ideas
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