Colorado Fall Bucket List: 15 Epic Things to Do During Fall Colors

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Planning a trip to Colorado during fall colors? There's so much more to do than drive around looking at aspens, although I could honestly spend all day doing exactly that!

From scenic train rides and mountain gondolas to ghost towns, apple cider slushies, and some of Colorado's most iconic photography spots, these are 15 of my favorite fall experiences across the state.

I've lived in Colorado for more than a decade and spend two to three weeks every fall chasing and photographing peak colors. I'm sharing all of my favorite things, including costs, reservations, timing, and tips to help you plan your own Colorado fall bucket list.

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Colorado Fall Colors Guide

Free Colorado Fall Bucket List Printable

I've put together a free Colorado Fall Bucket List printable featuring some of my favorite places and experiences across the state. Download it, save it to your phone, or print it out to check off your adventures as you explore Colorado's fall colors!

#1 Visit the Maroon Bells

Is a Colorado fall bucket list even complete without Maroon Bells? I've photographed the Bells more times than I can count, and somehow I still end up back there every fall.

One thing people don't always realize is that the aspens beneath the Bells don't all change color at the same time. The higher groves typically turn first, so even during peak fall colors, you'll see a mix of yellow and green. I actually prefer visiting a little early rather than too late, when the upper aspens may have already lost their leaves.

And the best part? You don't need to hike to see the famous view. Maroon Lake is just a short walk from the parking area or shuttle drop-off.

Parking and Shuttle Reservations

Plan ahead if you're visiting during peak fall colors! Parking reservations can sell out within days of being released, typically around mid-June.

• Drive yourself: Limited parking reservations are available for entry before 8 AM or after 5 PM during the main shuttle season. This is your best option for sunrise or sunset.
• Take the shuttle: Shuttles depart from Aspen Highlands and take approximately 15 minutes to reach Maroon Lake. This is the easiest daytime option, although parking at Aspen Highlands costs extra.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September through early October. I generally aim for September 22–30, but peak varies every year.
• Cost (2026): Private vehicle access was $10, plus a $2.40 reservation fee. An America the Beautiful Pass covered the entrance fee, but not the reservation fee. Shuttle tickets were $16 per adult and $10 per child ages 12 and younger.
• Location: Approximately 10 miles southwest of Aspen.
• Time needed: Allow 1–2 hours at Maroon Lake, plus transportation time.
• Reservations: Required during the main visitor season. Book early for peak fall dates.
• Where to book: Official Maroon Bells Parking & Shuttle Reservations.

Planning for fall 2027? Check out my Maroon Bells 2027 Fees & Reservations Guide for proposed changes to entrance fees, parking, and reservations.

If you're visiting with a camera, my Maroon Bells Fall Photography Guide covers photo locations, peak timing, and what I've learned about the best times to photograph the Bells.

#2 Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad

If you've never ridden the Georgetown Loop Railroad during peak fall colors, add it to your list! Located about 45 minutes west of Denver, this historic railroad travels between Georgetown and Silver Plume, crossing the famous Devil's Gate High Bridge with incredible views of the surrounding aspens.

It's also one of the easiest fall activities to add to your itinerary if you're visiting the Denver area.

Where to Sit on the Georgetown Loop Railroad

My biggest tip? Sit on the RIGHT side of the train heading toward Silver Plume Depot. That's the right side when you're facing the front of the train. These recommendations are specifically for departures from Devil's Gate Depot in Georgetown.

Want that classic photo of the train curving across Devil's Gate High Bridge? You can get it in either direction! Sit on the RIGHT side heading toward Silver Plume or the LEFT side returning to Georgetown.

One thing worth knowing is that the locomotive switches ends for the return trip. The back of the train becomes the front, and sitting near the engine can get pretty loud. I actually switch ends of the train on the return trip to avoid sitting right next to the loud horn/whistle. Keep this in mind if you have children.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September through early October.
• Cost (2026): We paid $39.22 per adult and $32.86 for our 5-year-old daughter, approximately $112 total. Prices vary by ticket class, excursion, and date.
• Ride duration: Approximately 75 minutes.
• Location: Devil's Gate Depot in Georgetown, approximately 45 minutes west of Denver.
• Reservations: Highly recommended during peak fall colors, especially on weekends. Popular departures can sell out.
• Arrival: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to pick up tickets and board.
• Where to book: Georgetown Loop Railroad Official Website.

#3 Ride the FREE Telluride Gondola

If there's ONE thing you do while visiting Telluride during fall colors, make it riding the gondola! It's completely FREE, and the views looking down into Telluride's box canyon surrounded by golden aspens are some of my favorites in Colorado.

I've ridden this gondola more times than I can count, and I still never get tired of it. It's one of my favorite activities to recommend to families because kids love it, it's free, and it's even a great option on rainy days.

My biggest tip? Ride the gondola in BOTH directions! The views are completely different, but my favorite is heading down toward Telluride from San Sophia Station. That initial departure overlooking the box canyon is unreal!

I also love riding from Mountain Village toward Market Plaza Station during golden hour. You get some of the best views of Wilson Peak, with the aspens glowing in the backlight.

Where to Park for the Telluride Gondola

You can park for FREE at either end of the gondola! My two recommendations are:

• Mountain Village: Park at the Mountain Village Gondola Parking Garage, located at 433 Mountain Village Boulevard. Daytime parking is free during summer and fall, and you can board the gondola at Market Plaza Station.
• Telluride: Park at the Carhenge Parking Lot, located at 700 W. Pacific Avenue. Daytime parking is free, and it's about a 10-minute walk to the gondola. I actually love this walk along the San Miguel River during fall colors!

Keep in mind that free parking is for daytime visits, not overnight parking.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically early October, although peak varies each year.
• Cost: Completely FREE!
• Ride duration: Approximately 12–13 minutes one way between Telluride and Mountain Village. Allow at least 30–45 minutes for a round trip, longer if you stop at San Sophia or start at Market Plaza Station.
• Operating hours: Generally 6:30 AM to midnight during the operating season.
• Seasonal dates: The 2026 season runs through October 25. The 2027 summer/fall season is scheduled for May 20 through October 24.
• Reservations: None required. Just show up and hop on!
• Dogs: Allowed in designated pet-friendly cabins.
• Where to board: Telluride Station at the end of Oak Street, Mountain Village Station, or Market Plaza Station near the free parking garage.
• Official information: Telluride Gondola Operating Hours & Information.

The gondola typically operates through late October before closing for seasonal maintenance, so it's usually running throughout peak fall colors.

#4 Drive Kebler Pass

If there's one scenic drive that belongs on every Colorado fall bucket list, it's Kebler Pass! Located just outside Crested Butte, Kebler Pass is home to Colorado's largest aspen grove and one of the largest in the world. During peak fall colors, entire mountainsides turn gold, making it one of my favorite scenic drives in Colorado.

What makes Kebler Pass so incredible is the sheer number of aspens. There are stretches where you're driving through what feels like an endless tunnel of golden trees, including some of the largest aspens I've seen in Colorado.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September through early October.
• Cost: FREE!
• Drive duration: Approximately 1–1.5 hours without extended stops.
• Road conditions: Mostly graded gravel. Generally suitable for passenger vehicles in dry conditions, but check road conditions before traveling.
• Location: Connects Crested Butte with Highway 133 near Paonia Reservoir.
• Reservations: None required.

#5 Ride the Leadville Railroad

The Leadville Railroad is one of my favorite ways to experience Colorado's fall colors without having to drive anywhere! Departing from historic Leadville, the train winds through the mountains with incredible views of golden aspens, surrounding peaks, and the Arkansas River Valley.

Unlike the Georgetown Loop Railroad, this is a longer ride, lasting approximately 2.5 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos along the way.

Where to Sit on the Leadville Railroad

My biggest tip? Sit on the LEFT side of the train when facing the front. This side overlooks the valley and offers the best views for photography, while the right side primarily faces the hillside. You can get up and walk around during the ride, though, so it's not a huge deal if you end up on the right.

I also recommend heading toward the last two train cars when boarding. These are the two closest to the depot.

• Last car: Completely open-air, making it great for unobstructed views and photography.
• Second-to-last car: My personal favorite when it's sunny or hot. You still have open windows for photography, but there's a roof overhead to keep you out of the direct sun.

The train follows an out-and-back route, and I usually stay in the same seat for both directions rather than switching sides.

General coach seating is first come, first served, so arrive at least 30 minutes early if you want your pick of seats. People start lining up for the last car, so you'll want to be among the first to board.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically mid to late September. I generally aim for September 15–30, although peak varies each year.
• Cost (2026): $60 per adult and $40 per child ages 4–12 for coach seating. Lounge car tickets were $90. We paid approximately $170 for the three of us, including taxes.
• Ride duration: Approximately 2.5 hours, although special excursions may run longer.
• Reservations: Highly recommended during peak fall colors, especially on weekends. Popular departures can sell out.
• Where to book: Leadville Railroad Official Website.

The Leadville Railroad also has a fall foliage tracker to help you plan your ride around the changing colors.

Is the Leadville Railroad Worth It With Young Kids?

One thing to consider if you're bringing little kids is the length of the ride. At 2.5 hours, the Leadville Railroad can feel pretty long for younger children. My daughter was completely over it halfway through when she was 4, and even at 5, she was ready to be done by the time we started heading back.

If you're traveling with kids 6 or younger, I'd personally recommend the Georgetown Loop Railroad instead. At approximately 75 minutes compared to Leadville's 2.5 hours, it's much more manageable for little ones. Both are beautiful during fall colors, but Georgetown would be my pick for younger kids.

#6 Drive the Million Dollar Highway

If you're visiting the San Juan Mountains during fall colors, the Million Dollar Highway is an absolute MUST. This stretch of Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton is, in my opinion, the prettiest drive in all of Colorado. It's one I do every single fall!

My favorite stretch is between Ouray and the summit of Red Mountain Pass, especially around Ironton, where you can explore an old mining ghost town surrounded by golden aspens.

One thing to know before driving is that parts of the highway have steep drop-offs without guardrails, and early-season snow is possible at higher elevations. Take your time, use designated pullouts for photos, and never stop in the roadway.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September through very early October, with higher elevations often changing first. Looking back at my photos over the years, September 26 through October 2 has consistently been a good window, although peak varies annually.
• Cost: FREE!
• Drive duration: Approximately 45 minutes between Ouray and Silverton without stops, but allow 2–3 hours if you're stopping for photos.
• Road conditions: Fully paved, but narrow and winding in sections, with steep drop-offs and limited guardrails.
• Location: Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton.
• Reservations: None required.

For more places to stop and photograph fall colors along this route, check out my San Juan Mountains Fall Colors Guide.

#7 Explore Ashcroft Ghost Town

About 11 miles outside Aspen, Ashcroft Ghost Town is a former silver mining town dating back to the 1880s, with several original wooden buildings still standing. During fall, the surrounding aspens turn gold, making the historic cabins with the mountains behind them some pretty incredible photography spots.

It's also one of the easiest ghost towns to visit in Colorado. No 4WD, rough mountain passes, or hiking required! Just follow Castle Creek Road from Aspen, which is paved all the way to the townsite.

You can wander through the old townsite, peek inside some of the preserved buildings, and learn about life during Colorado's mining boom.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September. In my experience, Ashcroft often peaks a little earlier than Maroon Bells, although timing varies each year.
• Cost (2026): $5 per adult. Children 18 and under are free. Admission is collected through an honor-system payment box.
• Time needed: Approximately 30–60 minutes.
• Location: Castle Creek Road, about 11 miles south of Aspen. Approximately 30 minutes from Aspen or 45 minutes from Snowmass.
• Road conditions: Paved and accessible to regular passenger vehicles.
• Dogs: NOT allowed, including leashed dogs.
• Reservations: None required.
• Official information: Aspen Historical Society: Ashcroft Ghost Town.

Make a Stop at Pine Creek Cookhouse

Want to make a day of it? Pine Creek Cookhouse is just beyond Ashcroft Ghost Town and is a great place to grab lunch with mountain views.

It's typically open through the first few days of October, so you can often visit during peak fall colors. Reservations are recommended, and I'd check their seasonal closing date before planning your trip.

Official website: Pine Creek Cookhouse.

#8 Get an Apple Cider Slushie in Cedaredge

Forget pumpkin spice. One of my favorite fall treats in Western Colorado is an apple cider slushie from Red Mountain Ranches in Cedaredge!

This family-owned orchard and fruit market sits right along Highway 65 at the base of Grand Mesa. Their apple cider slushies are made with cider pressed from their own locally grown apples, and they're absolutely worth stopping for if you're driving the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway during fall colors.

They also sell fresh apples, seasonal produce, jams, and other goodies, making it a fun little stop on a fall road trip.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time to visit: September through October, during apple harvest and Grand Mesa's fall color season.
• Cost: Varies depending on what you purchase.
• Time needed: Approximately 15–30 minutes.
• Location: Red Mountain Ranches, 19458 Highway 65, Cedaredge, CO.
• Hours: Typically open in the afternoons, around 1–5 PM, with occasional closures. Check before visiting.
• Reservations: None required.
• Official website: Red Mountain Ranches.

Visiting During Cedaredge Applefest?

If you're visiting the first weekend of October, Cedaredge also hosts its annual Applefest, celebrating the local apple harvest with vendors, food, live music, and more.

It's a fun addition to a fall colors trip through Grand Mesa, especially if you're already planning to drive the scenic byway.

#9 Ride the Silver Queen Gondola in Aspen

If you're spending time in Aspen during fall colors, the Silver Queen Gondola is a great way to see the mountains without having to hike to the top. The gondola departs right from downtown Aspen and takes about 15 minutes to reach the summit of Aspen Mountain at 11,212 feet.

One important thing to know is that the gondola only operates on weekends during the fall season, typically Friday through Sunday. If you're planning a fall colors trip to Aspen, make sure you check the operating dates before adding this to your itinerary.

And there's actually quite a bit to do once you're up there! You can grab lunch or a mimosa at the Sundeck, sit outside and enjoy the mountain views, or explore several hiking trails that start right near the gondola.

What to Do at the Top of Aspen Mountain

If you're just there for the views, you don't have to hike at all. But if you want to stretch your legs, there are several options:

• Nature Trail: Approximately 1 mile round trip with minimal elevation gain. A great option if you're visiting with kids or just want a short walk.
• Richmond Ridge: A longer option with mountain views and relatively gentle terrain. The full route is approximately 2.2 miles one way, so you can always turn around earlier.
• East Rim/Cherry Trail Loop: Approximately 1.9 miles round trip, with more varied terrain and views.

Personally, I'd make time to grab a mimosa at the Sundeck and enjoy the views from the patio before heading back down. Just keep in mind that the summit is above the main aspen groves, so much of the fall color you'll see is below you rather than directly around the restaurant.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September through early October.
• Cost (2026): $40 per adult (13+), $30 for children ages 7–12, and FREE for children 6 and under.
• Ride duration: Approximately 15 minutes each way.
• Time needed: Allow 1–2 hours for the gondola and summit, longer if you plan to hike or have lunch.
• Location: Silver Queen Gondola Plaza in downtown Aspen.
• Operating hours (2026): 10 AM–4 PM, with the last ride down at 4:30 PM.
• Fall operating dates (2026): Friday through Sunday only in September, plus October 2–4. The season ended October 4.
• Dogs: Allowed in designated pet-friendly gondola cabins.
• Reservations: Sightseeing tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office.
• Official information: Aspen Mountain Summer Gondola Hours & Activities.

#10 Photograph the Famous Cabin at Molas Pass

If you've spent any time looking at photos of Colorado in the fall, you've probably seen this little wooden cabin surrounded by golden aspens with the San Juan Mountains in the background. It's one of the most recognizable fall photography spots in Southwest Colorado, and it's even prettier in person!

The cabin is located just south of Molas Pass along Highway 550, between Silverton and Durango. Despite how remote it looks in photos, you don't need to hike miles into the mountains to photograph it. The classic view is accessible with just a short walk from near the highway.

I've photographed this cabin more times than I can count, and one thing I've learned is that timing makes a HUGE difference. The aspens surrounding the cabin don't always peak at the same time as other areas of the San Juans. Just because Silverton or Red Mountain Pass looks good doesn't mean this spot will be at peak, too.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September through early October, depending on conditions.
• Cost: FREE!
• Time needed: Approximately 30 minutes, but allow longer if you're waiting for the right light.
• Location: Just south of Molas Pass along Highway 550, between Silverton and Durango.
• Access: Short walk from a nearby parking area. No long hike required.
• Reservations: None required.
• Photography tips and exact location: My Complete Molas Pass Cabin Photography Guide.

#11 Drive Independence Pass

Independence Pass is one of my favorite ways to get between Twin Lakes and Aspen during fall colors. Highway 82 crosses the Continental Divide at 12,095 feet, with beautiful aspen groves along the way, narrow sections of road, and some pretty significant drop-offs.

I usually make a full day of it by starting in Leadville for the railroad, then heading to Twin Lakes and driving Independence Pass into Aspen on my way back to the Western Slope. It's one of my favorite ways to combine several fall activities without having to backtrack.

One thing worth knowing is that the summit is well above treeline, so you won't find any aspens up there! The best fall colors are at lower elevations on both sides of the pass, so don't just drive straight to the summit and call it a day.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September, depending on elevation and weather.
• Cost: FREE!
• Drive duration: Approximately 1–1.5 hours between Aspen and Twin Lakes, or 2–3 hours with photo stops.
• Location: Highway 82 between Aspen and Twin Lakes.
• Road conditions: Fully paved, but narrow in places, with sharp curves, steep drop-offs, and sections where only one vehicle can pass at a time.
• Vehicle restrictions: Vehicles and vehicle-trailer combinations 35 feet or longer are prohibited.
• Seasonal access: Typically open from late May through late October or early November, depending on snowfall.
• Reservations: None required.
• Road status: Check COtrip before driving.

Love a good scenic drive? Independence Pass is just one of many incredible routes to explore during fall colors. I've rounded up more of my favorites in my Best Scenic Drives for Fall Colors in Colorado, including routes throughout the San Juans, Central Mountains, and Front Range.

#12 Explore Ironton Ghost Town

Just south of Ouray along Highway 550, Ironton Ghost Town is a former mining town from the late 1800s, with several historic buildings still standing among the aspens. It's located in Ironton Park, one of my favorite places along the Million Dollar Highway for fall colors.

The buildings are spread throughout the old townsite, so it's worth getting out and exploring rather than just photographing the first one you see. You'll find historic cabins, mining-era structures, and plenty of golden aspens.

Keep your eyes open for moose, too! They're frequently spotted around Ironton Park, especially in wooded and willow-covered areas. Give them plenty of space, particularly during the fall rut or if you encounter a cow with calves. Never get between a mother moose and her babies.

I typically stop here while photographing fall colors around Red Mountain Pass. It's an easy addition to a drive between Ouray and Silverton, and you don't need a 4WD vehicle or a long hike to explore the townsite.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September through early October. In my experience, the last week of September is often especially good around Ironton.
• Cost: FREE!
• Time needed: Approximately 60 minutes, depending on how much you want to explore and photograph.
• Location: Ironton Park along Highway 550, approximately 9 miles south of Ouray.
• Access: Short walks from parking areas along the highway. Some paths are uneven or muddy.
• Dogs: Keep dogs leashed and away from unstable structures and old mining hazards. I've seen plenty of old, rusty nails scattered around, too.
• Reservations: None required.

Planning more stops in the area? Check out my San Juan Mountains Fall Colors Guide for more places to explore around Ouray, Silverton, and Telluride.

#13 Visit Crystal Mill Near Marble

Crystal Mill is easily one of the most photographed places in Colorado during fall colors, and for good reason. The historic wooden powerhouse sits on a rocky ledge above the Crystal River, surrounded by golden aspens and a beautiful waterfall. It's one of those classic Colorado photographs that just about every landscape photographer wants in their portfolio.

Getting there is the biggest challenge. From Marble, it's roughly five miles of rocky, narrow 4WD terrain. This is NOT a road I'd recommend driving unless you're an experienced off-road driver with a capable, high-clearance 4WD vehicle. If you're not comfortable with that kind of driving, consider booking a guided Jeep tour or hiking instead.

You can also hike to Crystal Mill from the Crested Butte side via Schofield Pass and Devil's Punchbowl, which I've done myself. We parked near Schofield Park and hiked approximately seven miles round trip, with most of the elevation gain on the return.

Do NOT attempt to drive through Devil's Punchbowl unless you're a highly experienced off-road driver with an appropriate vehicle. This is an extremely narrow, exposed section of road with a history of fatal accidents. Personally, I'd recommend hiking this section rather than driving it.

Photography Tips for Crystal Mill

One thing photographers should know is that Crystal Mill is actually pretty difficult to photograph in good light. Maybe it's a me problem, but this is one of the locations I always struggle with.

The sun rises behind and off to the side of the mill, and by the time sunlight reaches the aspens, it can be surprisingly harsh. Even during golden hour, the direct light can make the yellow leaves look somewhat muted in photos.

It's still an incredible place to photograph, but don't expect perfect lighting just because you arrive at sunrise. It's actually pretty dark that early, so bring a tripod!

Please respect the private property surrounding Crystal Mill. You can photograph it from the public road, but you cannot access the river below. The nearby town of Crystal is also home to residents, so enjoy the historic buildings from the road and don't wander onto private property.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time for fall colors: Typically late September through early October, depending on conditions.
• Cost: FREE to view and photograph from the public road. Guided Jeep tours cost extra.
• Time needed: Allow approximately 3–4 hours round trip from Marble by vehicle, longer if hiking or stopping frequently.
• Location: Approximately 5 miles outside Marble, Colorado, along Crystal City Road.
• Road conditions: Rough, narrow, rocky 4WD road requiring high clearance and experienced off-road driving. Not suitable for standard passenger vehicles.
• Alternative access: Guided Jeep tours, hiking, or mountain biking. From the Crested Butte side, the hike via Schofield Pass and Devil's Punchbowl is approximately 7 miles round trip from the Schofield Park Parking area.
• Photography access: View and photograph from the public road. Do not descend to the river or enter private property without explicit permission.
• Reservations: None required to visit independently. Book guided tours in advance.
• Road information: Marble Tourism Association.

#14 Get a Haute Chocolate at The Remedy in Vail

Okay, this one is definitely a splurge, but it's SO worth it for the experience!

The Remedy, located inside the Four Seasons Resort in Vail, serves its famous Haute Chocolate, which is essentially an over-the-top hot chocolate that's more of a dessert than a drink. At $30 in 2026, it's certainly not your average cup of hot chocolate, but it's a fun treat during a fall trip to Vail.

When we visited, I specifically wanted to sit outside by one of the fire pits, so we arrived right when The Remedy opened at 11 AM. I'm SO glad we did because we snagged a table directly in front of the fire before it got busy. There are only a handful of fire pit tables, so I wouldn't count on getting one during a busy afternoon.

And you don't have to be staying at the Four Seasons to visit! Let's be honest, that's not in my tax bracket, but I can afford to splurge on a Haute Chocolate once in a while.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time to visit: Late September through early October if you're combining it with Vail's fall colors.
• Cost (2026): $30 for the Haute Chocolate, before tax and tip.
• Time needed: Approximately 45–60 minutes.
• Location: The Remedy at Four Seasons Resort Vail, 1 Vail Road, Vail.
• Hours: Opens daily at 11 AM. Check current hours before visiting.
• My tip: Arrive right when they open if you're hoping to get an outdoor fire pit table.
• Reservations: Contact the restaurant for current reservations and seating arrangements. Outdoor fire pit seating may be limited.
• Official website: The Remedy at Four Seasons Vail.

#15 Have a Rooftop Drink at the Last Dollar Saloon in Telluride

One of my favorite places to grab a drink in Telluride is the rooftop at the Last Dollar Saloon, also known as The Buck. The views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains are incredible, especially when the entire box canyon is covered in golden aspens.

My go-to order is the Spicy Prickly Pear Margarita (pictured above), and I highly recommend it if you like a little heat in your margaritas!

My biggest tip? Go early! They open at 3 PM, and I try to get there shortly after opening to snag a rooftop table before it gets crowded. Seating is first come, first served, and the rooftop isn't particularly large.

Sunset is even more beautiful, but expect it to be much busier on weekends. If having a rooftop table is important to you, I'd prioritize arriving early over trying to time your visit perfectly for sunset.

Plan Your Visit

• Best time to visit: Typically early October, when Telluride's fall colors peak.
• Cost: Drinks are individually priced. The Spicy Prickly Pear Margarita was listed at $16 on the 2026 menu.
• Time needed: Approximately 45–90 minutes.
• Location: 100 E. Colorado Avenue, downtown Telluride.
• Hours: Daily, 3 PM–1 AM. Check current hours before visiting.
• Seating: First come, first served. Check with staff downstairs about rooftop availability.
• Age restrictions: 21+ ONLY. No children are permitted, even when accompanied by adults.
• Dogs: Not allowed.
• Reservations: No individual rooftop table reservations.
• Official website: Last Dollar Saloon.

FAQs About Colorado Fall Bucket List Activities

When is the best time to visit Colorado for fall colors?

Generally, mid-September through early October is the best window for fall colors in Colorado, but peak timing varies significantly by elevation, region, and weather. Higher elevations usually change first, while lower elevations tend to peak later.

For a more detailed breakdown, check out my When to See Fall Colors in Colorado guide.

What are the best free things to do in Colorado during fall?

Some of my favorite FREE fall activities include riding the Telluride Gondola, driving Kebler Pass or the Million Dollar Highway, exploring Ironton Ghost Town, and photographing the famous cabin near Molas Pass.

Many of Colorado's best fall experiences don't require expensive tours or reservations!

Do you need reservations for Colorado fall activities?

It depends on the experience. Popular attractions like Maroon Bells require advance reservations during the main visitor season, while scenic train rides often sell out during peak fall weekends.

Most scenic drives, ghost towns, and the Telluride Gondola don't require reservations. Just remember that some mountain attractions, including Aspen's Silver Queen Gondola, have limited fall operating schedules.

What are the best things to do in Colorado in the fall besides hiking?

You don't have to hike to experience Colorado's fall colors! Some of my favorite activities include riding the Georgetown Loop or Leadville Railroad, taking the free Telluride Gondola, exploring historic ghost towns, and riding the Silver Queen Gondola in Aspen. You can also visit local orchards, enjoy seasonal treats, and explore Colorado's mountain towns without ever setting foot on a hiking trail.

Plan Your Colorado Fall Bucket List

You could spend weeks exploring Colorado during fall colors and still not see everything! These are 15 of my favorite experiences, but there are plenty more scenic drives, mountain towns, and photography spots worth adding to your itinerary.

If you're planning a fall trip, head over to my Colorado Fall Colors page, where I've organized all my resources for peak timing, scenic drives, photography locations, and trip planning. You can also grab my FREE Colorado Fall Bucket List Printable to check off your adventures along the way!