Experiencing Colorado’s Fall Colors
It’s that time of year again – when the leaves of Colorado’s aspen trees peak in beauty as seasons change. The leaves of these trees go through autumn’s transformation in unison as they change from a summery green to a pale gold to a rich deep red. People flock by the thousands to the Colorado high country to see and photograph this annual autumn spectacle. The golden colors only last for a few weeks in September so hit the road to the high country!
Because of its size, the Kebler Pass grove can be seen from almost anywhere around the town of Crested Butte. But locals recommend witnessing its colors from the Dyke Trail – a moderate 14-mile mountain bike loop that winds through the grove high on the pass. You will pass through conifer and aspen forest as well as open areas that give spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Getting there: From Crested Butte, take Kebler Pass Road. (Co Rd 12) seven miles west to a Y-junction with Irwin Lake Road. (Co Rd 826). Park in the trailhead parking lot on the left side of the road and start riding Irwin Lake Road toward the lake. In total, the trip covers nine miles of road and five miles of single-track.
