Breathtaking Fall Foliage Drives for Your Next adVANture in Colorado
Here are the top 10 fall foliage drives in Colorado. As someone who's explored every nook and cranny of this beautiful state in my trusty Mystery Machine 3000 van, I can tell you that autumn here is nothing short of magical. So, grab your pumpkin spice latte, fire up one of our converted Promastesrs, and let's hit the road!
1. Trail Ridge Road: A High-Altitude Color Explosion
First up is the iconic Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. This baby is the highest continuous paved road in North America, and let me tell you, the views are out of this world! Pro tip: This route is always sunny, so if you're in La Vida Luna, you're in for plenty of power up sunny time with her solar powered roof panels!
2. Kebler Pass: A Photographer's Dream
Next, we're heading to Gunnison for Kebler Pass. This spot boasts one of North America's largest aspen groves. I've spent countless hours here with my camera, trying to capture that perfect golden hour shot. Just remember, it's unpaved, so take it slow and enjoy the Colorado #vanlife ride!
Bonus Camping Spot: Big B's Delicious Orchards
Wanna get fruity? I've got a special treat for you! If you're looking for a unique camping experience during your fall foliage tour, let me introduce you to one of my favorite hidden gems: Big B's Delicious Orchards in Hotchkiss, Colorado.
Big B's isn't just an orchard - it's a slice of #vanlife heaven. Here's why I love it:
Affordable Camping: For just $25 a night, you can park your Van da Lady camper in their orchard. Trust me, waking up surrounded by apple trees in full fall color is magical!
Fresh Produce: Stock up on organic apples, peaches, and pears right from the source. Nothing beats cooking up a farm-fresh meal in your van's kitchenette.
Hard Cider Tasting: Big B's is famous for their hard cider. After a day of leaf-peeping, unwind with a flight of their seasonal ciders. My favorite? The Maple Dry Aged in the Bourbon Barrels, very tasty!
Live Music: On weekends, they often have live music. Imagine sipping cider, listening to tunes, and watching the sunset paint the orchard in golden hues.
U-Pick Fun: Depending on when you visit, you might catch the tail end of their u-pick season. There's something special about picking your own apples to snack on during your road trip.
Proximity to Great Drives: Big B's is perfectly positioned for exploring some amazing fall color routes. The West Elk Loop Scenic Byway is nearby and offers stunning views of the changing aspens.
To get there, just set your GPS to 39618 Highway 133, Hotchkiss, CO 81419. It's about a 5-hour drive from our Denver basecamp, but trust me, it's worth every mile.
Pro tip: Big B's can get busy during peak apple season, so I recommend calling ahead to reserve your spot, especially on weekends.
3. The San Juan Skyway: 236 Miles of Pure Bliss
The San Juan Skyway is a van lifer's paradise. This 236-mile loop through southwest Colorado will have you gasping at every turn. If you want to give your van a break, hop on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a different perspective. Don't forget the Pagosa Springs Hot Springs, because that place is really magical.
4. Maroon Bells: The Poster Child of Colorado Autumn
No fall foliage list is complete without the Maroon Bells. These twin peaks are the most photographed in North America for a reason. Just remember to make a reservation – trust me, it's worth the extra planning!
5. Western Slope: Where Wine Meets Wilderness
The Western Slope is where I go when I want to combine leaf-peeping with a little vino. The Grand Mesa scenic byway is perfect for our Happy Glamper van, with its stunning views and so many awesome places to stop and explore. One of my favorite wineries down that way is the
6. Buffalo Pass: Steamboat's Hidden Gem
Just west of Steamboat Springs, Buffalo Pass is a dirt road that'll make you feel like you're driving through a river of gold. The aspens here are incredible, and the Three Island Lake Trail is a must-hike if you're up for it.
7. La Veta Pass: Southern Colorado's Color Explosion
La Veta Pass in southern Colorado is one of my favorite drives. The mix of golden aspens and dark pines against the backdrop of the Spanish Peaks is simply breathtaking.
8. Telluride Free Gondola: Aerial Autumn Views
For a unique perspective, park your van and hop on the Telluride Free Gondola. The aerial views of the fall colors are unbeatable. And if you're feeling adventurous, the Jud Wiebe Trail is right in town.
9. Dallas Divide: A Photographer's Paradise
The drive over Dallas Divide on Colorado Hwy. 62 is one of my absolute favorites. The view of Mount Sneffels surrounded by fall colors is the stuff of postcards. Don't forget to continue on to Lizard Head Pass for a view of the mountain that inspired the Coors logo!
10. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: Front Range Fabulous
Last but not least, the Peak to Peak scenic byway. This is Colorado's oldest scenic byway, and it's a perfect day trip from our basecamp in Denver. The Continental Divide views are spectacular, especially when draped in autumn hues.
There you have it, folks! Ten incredible fall drives to experience in your Van da Lady rental. Remember, our vans come equipped with everything you need for the perfect autumn road trip, including cozy blankets for those chilly mountain evenings.
Ready to embark on your own fall foliage adventure? Book one of our vans today and don't forget to share your colorful pics with us using #vandaladyadVANture.
and a few more fallorado Colorado #vanlife adventure goodies...
two National Parks worth visiting in the fall
Mesa Verde National Park: Ancient History Meets Fall Splendor
Hey van life enthusiasts! If you're looking to add a dash of ancient history to your fall foliage tour, you can't miss Mesa Verde National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not just about impressive cliff dwellings; it's also a fantastic spot for autumn colors!
Here's why Mesa Verde should be on your Van da Lady fall itinerary:
Unique Fall Colors: While you won't see many aspens here, the oak brush and low-growing sumac turn brilliant shades of red and orange in the fall. It's a different kind of Colorado fall, and it's stunning!
Less Crowded: Fall is the perfect time to visit Mesa Verde. The summer crowds have thinned out, and the weather is perfect for exploring.
Scenic Drives: The 6-mile Mesa Top Loop Road offers panoramic views of the changing colors and several easily accessible archaeological sites.
Stargazing: Mesa Verde is an International Dark Sky Park. Imagine watching the stars from your Van da Lady camper, surrounded by the silence of ancient cliff dwellings. Pure magic!
Camping: Morefield Campground is open through October and can accommodate RVs. It's a perfect base for your Mesa Verde adventures.
Pro tip: While you're in the area, take a drive on the San Juan Skyway. The stretch between Durango and Telluride is especially beautiful in fall.
Great Sand Dunes National Park: Autumn in the Desert
Now, let's shift gears from ancient ruins to... sand? That's right, van lifers! Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a unique fall experience you won't find anywhere else in Colorado.
Here's why you should point your Van da Lady camper towards these magnificent dunes:
Golden Hours: Fall brings cooler temperatures, making it perfect for climbing the dunes. The low autumn sun creates incredible shadows and light play on the sand, especially during golden hour.
Colorful Backdrop: While the dunes themselves don't change color, the surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains put on a spectacular fall show. The contrast of golden sand, blue sky, and colorful mountains is breathtaking.
Sandboarding: Rent a sandboard and slide down the dunes. It's like snowboarding, but... sandier!
Medano Creek: In fall, you might catch the creek flowing again after the late summer dry spell. It's a great spot for a picnic.
Night Skies: Like Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes is an International Dark Sky Park. Stargazing from the dunes is an unforgettable experience.
Camping: The Pinon Flats Campground is open through October and can accommodate RVs. Imagine waking up to the sunrise over the dunes right from your Van da Lady camper!
Pro tip: The sand can get hot during the day, even in fall. Plan your dune climbing for early morning or late afternoon for the most comfortable experience.
Both Mesa Verde and Great Sand Dunes offer unique fall experiences that go beyond the typical leaf-peeping. They're perfect additions to your Colorado autumn road trip, especially if you're exploring the southern part of the state.
FAQs
When is the best time to see fall colors in Colorado?
Typically, mid-September to mid-October is prime time, but it can vary based on elevation and weather conditions.
Are your vans suitable for mountain driving?</h3>
Absolutely! Our Ram Promaster vans are perfect for mountain roads. Just remember to take it slow on those switchbacks!
Do I need a special pass for these scenic drives?
Most of these routes are on public roads, but some, like Rocky Mountain National Park, require an entrance fee. Don't worry, though – we've got you covered with a Colorado State Park Pass in every van!
Remember, our Van da Lady campers are equipped for all sorts of adventures, from mountain drives to desert camping. Book your fall adventure today and don't forget to share your pics with us using #VanDaLadyAdVANTure!
Ready to book your fall foliage adventure? Give us a shout, and let's get you on the road!
Happy trails!
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