We just got back from Colorado, and I have to say, I’m having a hard time coming back to real life. If you’re considering Colorado travel, early fall may be one of the best times to go.
There’s something about the mountains this time of year that gets you. The mornings are crisp, the skies seem impossibly blue, and the whole landscape begins to take on those beautiful golden hues. Our trip to The Broadmoor and Breckenridge gave us a little taste of all of it—and I came home already thinking about when we could go back.
Here are my three top reasons to travel to Colorado in early fall.
1. The Changing Aspen Trees Are Spectacular
This is reason enough to go.
Watching the aspen trees turn from green to brilliant shades of gold is one of those experiences that pictures simply don’t do justice. Against the deep green evergreens and rugged mountain peaks, the color is incredible.
Even driving through the mountains becomes an experience. You round a corner and suddenly find yourself surrounded by golden trees, with another breathtaking view waiting around the bend. We kept stopping to take pictures, even though we knew our phones could never quite capture what it felt like to actually be there.
2. The Weather Is Made for a Mountain Getaway
Early fall gave us exactly the kind of weather I love. Mornings were cool enough for a sweater, afternoons were sunny and comfortable, and evenings had just enough chill to make you want to cozy up.
It was perfect for getting outside, wandering around Breckenridge, taking scenic drives and simply enjoying the mountains without the heat of summer or the cold of winter.
3. You Get the Best of Colorado—With Time to Slow Down
One of my favorite things about our trip was the change of pace. In Breckenridge, we wandered through town, browsed the shops and restaurants, and simply took our time. There was nowhere we needed to rush off to, and that slower rhythm made it easy to enjoy the moment. Our hike to Mohawk Lake was our absolute favorite activity.
Then we experienced The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, which brought a completely different kind of Colorado getaway. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and incredible hospitality, it was the kind of place where the little luxurious touches make you exhale the minute you arrive. And there was plenty to explore beyond the resort, too. We rode the Cog Railway up to Pikes Peak, took in the dramatic scenery at Garden of the Gods, and visited the stunning Seven Falls. We even enjoyed a memorable meal at Restaurant 1858, tucked right alongside the falls.
That combination of mountain adventure and a little indulgence was the perfect balance. We could spend the day exploring some of Colorado’s most beautiful sights and then come back to The Broadmoor to slow down, relax, and enjoy being somewhere truly special.
Maybe that’s what I loved most about Colorado in early fall. It gives you a reason to slow down. To take the scenic route, linger over a meal and look up from your phone long enough to really take in the view.
So if a fall getaway is calling your name, put Colorado on the list. Go for the golden aspens, stay for the mountain air, and come home feeling like you actually got away.
Here’s to more empty nester travel!
Colorado Fall Travel
