As luck would have it, we scheduled a trip to Colorado in mid-September.

While we were planning the trip we didn’t even consider the fact this was peak season for the colorful turning of Aspen leaves. My, were we surprised and awestruck when we arrived at our destination near Georgetown. This was a perspective of Colorado neither of us had ever experienced.

Gail and I have made numerous jaunts to Colorado. Some of these were family vacations with our kids and other times it has been just the two of us. We had always experienced Colorado in summer hiking adventures or winter ski trips; never in the fall. Generally, September is one of our favorite months to travel anywhere because the climate is mild and parks are less busy.

After doing this trip, Aspen season in Colorado will be on our do-to list again!

Guanella Pass

Based on this trip, our best recommendation for viewing the Aspens if you are in the area is to drive south out of Georgetown on Guanella Pass Road or Highway 381. This is a paved and well maintained switchback road. It spectacularly highlights the contrasts among the aspens, the pines, grassy meadows and rock ledges.

There is no reason to be in a hurry when driving during Aspen season as this roadway is one of the most beautiful two lanes in the state this time of year. Along the way, there are plenty of places to pull over for pictures, picnics, hikes or naps too.

If there was ever a time to travel slow, this was it. 

We also hiked on the Guanella Pass Trail and made it to Silver Dollar Lake which is about 3.5 miles from the trail head. I’d consider the hike a moderate level trek overall. Generally, the trail was in very good condition and we were able to walk at a faster pace.

Unfortunately I do not have a picture of the lake, but these are some photos we took on the trail along the way.

Colorado is one of our favorite places to visit and we will be posting more about this beautiful state in the future.

Schedule a trip to the state in Aspen season. The Georgetown area is a central location to many beautiful spots during the year but mid-September when the Aspens are out is a time that is hard to beat!