When you think about Colorado, you’re likely picturing snow. After all, visitors come from around the world to hit the slopes here each winter. But if you’re not searching for a winter wonderland, there are plenty of other fun things to do in the area all year long! Visiting Crested Butte in the fall will offer all kinds of entertainment, regardless of your interests or who you’re bringing with you.
If you happen to be looking at our Crested Butte rentals for the fall, you won’t want to miss the chance to go leaf peeping. But what is leaf peeping in the first place? Essentially, it’s the act of visiting an area to admire the fall foliage as the temperatures drop and the breathtaking colors of the leaves reach their peak. Colorado is an especially beautiful place to go leaf peeping, especially if the previous summer has been relatively mild.
Here’s your complete guide to leaf peeping in Crested Butte this fall!
Come at the Right Time
The Crested Butte fall colors have to be seen to be believed. Many areas around the United States have spectacular colors as the temperatures start to drop, but this is especially true in Colorado. You’ll see beautiful colors throughout the season, but for the most impressive views, try to visit between mid-September and mid-October. The actual peak of the colors will vary from year to year.
The colors of the leaves change according to the weather so that some years will be better than others, or the peak of the colors may shift a bit. For instance, if there has been a drought in the summertime, it’s likely that the colors won’t be quite as vibrant (but still worth the trip, for sure). An ideal leaf peeping season comes after a summer with decent rainfall and relatively cool temperatures, allowing the aspens to thrive and bring out their distinctive gold colors in the fall.
When you come to see the gorgeous Crested Butte fall colors, there are a few things to bring with you. Get comfortable walking shoes and a reusable water bottle so you can stay on the trail for as long as possible. Insect repellent and sunscreen will also come in handy. Finally, don’t forget your camera to capture all the majesty around you!
Find the Perfect Hike
Hiking in Crested Butte is a popular pastime all year long, but when you go hiking during leaf peeping season, you’ll be up close and personal with some of the state’s most beautiful nature. Here are some of the best hikes in Crested Butte for the ultimate leaf peeping experience!
Beaver Ponds
If you’re looking for an easy hike that family members of all ages can enjoy, you can head to Beaver Ponds via the Ohio Pass. This hike is considered easy and is just 1.1 miles roundtrip, meaning most groups can accomplish the hike in an hour or less. Although the hike is short, it’s incredibly rewarding, thanks to the one-of-a-kind views of the aspen forest. As you make your way to the trailhead, you’ll drive along the Ohio Pass; be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the castle rock formations in the distance!
Tony’s Trail
For a slightly longer but still easy hike, head to Tony’s Trail to Upper Upper Viewpoint. The entrance to this hike is near town, so you can easily get there from any of our Crested Butte vacation rentals. As you experience the hike, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the mountains while you’re entrenched in the forest. The entire trip runs 2.8 miles roundtrip and should take about an hour and a half to complete.
Snodgrass Mountain
Hiking on Snodgrass Mountain is considered easy to moderate, so most groups should have no trouble with this trek. Set aside at least two hours to enjoy this 2-4-mile hike. Luckily, it’s an out-and-back trip, so there’s no need to summit. Head in 1-2 miles to experience the most beautiful views, then turn around and head back out. Just be sure to avoid the closed portion of the trail.
Plan Your Visit
Contact Crested Butte Property Management today to book your next trip to Colorado for leaf peeping season!
3 Lakes Loop
If you head to Kebler Pass, you can experience the picturesque 3 Lakes Loop. You’ll get to be in the midst of the state’s biggest aspen forest! When you get to the pinnacle of the trail, stop and admire the view since you’ll get to see the entire valley. You’ll enjoy a 2.8-mile hike that should take about an hour and a half. Plus, you’ll get access to the lake! This trip could easily take a whole day if you wanted to stop along the way, take a dip in the lake, or enjoy a picnic lunch on the trail.
The Woods Walk
Another hike that’s 2.8 miles and an hour and a half in length is the Woods Walk. This hike is incredibly close to town, so it should be easy to get to no matter which of our Crested Butte luxury vacation homes you’re staying in. You’ll take the trail through the valley toward Paradise Divide, rewarding you with a breathtaking view of Mt. Crested Butte. This option is ideal if you want to do an early morning hike before the rest of the day’s activities begin.
Deer Creek Trail
So far, the hikes we’ve discussed have been easy. But if you’re more experienced and want a bit of a challenge, check out Deer Creek Trail in the Gothic Valley. This moderate hike is a 6.9-mile journey out and back, so you should set aside at least three and a half hours to tackle the whole thing. You’ll experience panoramic mountain views and all kinds of aspen groves along the way. You can get views of the Crested Butte Mountain Resort and Gothic Mountain at several points along the trail.
Crested Butte Lodging
Crested Butte, Colorado, is one of the state’s most popular tourist destinations in the fall, and it’s no question why. But before you can come and experience leaf peeping season for yourself, you’ll need a place to call home while you’re in town. Crested Butte Property Management is proud to offer a huge catalog of rentals to choose from, guaranteeing that you can find the right rental for your group.
Whether you’re traveling with your partner or are bringing the whole family, our rentals catalog is sure to have something for you. Each of our rentals is uniquely designed, but they all have some amenities in common, including high-speed WiFi, spacious living and dining rooms, fully stocked kitchens, and more. In some rentals, you even get stunning views of the mountains right outside your window!
Each rental also comes with the dedicated service of our team. We’re happy to answer any questions you might have about your property or the best things to do and see in town. We will do all the heavy lifting while you enjoy a relaxing and fulfilling getaway.
