Fall Foliage Updates: Colorado’s Hidden Fall Off-Road Trails

5280 Offroad
Sep 18, 2025
6 min read

Published by 5280 Offroad

Born at elevation. Forged in mud. Grit is earned.

Alright, 5280 Offroad Tribe - leaf-peeping season in Colorado is kicking into high gear, and the high country is lighting up with golds, reds, and ambers. High elevations are just starting to shift, think lime green with early yellow patches and peak color is expected over the next 1–2 weeks depending on slope and exposure. We’re right at the start of peak color above 10,000 feet, though many groves are still in transition and not yet at full glow, which means the next two weeks are prime time for chasing fall magic before wind, weather, and early snow start stripping the branches. With winter closures still a few weeks out, this is your window to hit the lesser-known backroads that deliver the same jaw-dropping views as the marquee passes without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowding.

Peak Season in the High Country

Today, we’re spotlighting a handful of hidden fall gems, Colorado’s hidden Fall off-road trails trails that give you the same jaw-dropping views as the big names but keep you in the driver’s seat instead of stuck behind a convoy of rental Jeeps.

Why Now is the Time to Go

High Country Just Hit Peak - Elevations above 10,000 ft are bursting with gold and amber right now, though many stands are still lime green and in early transition; full peak is imminent in late September into early October
Short Window for the Big Passes - Many high-elevation trails will lose their leaves within the next 10 to 14 days, especially if early snow or strong winds roll in.
Perfect Trail Weather - The summer monsoon pattern is fading, leaving behind clear skies, crisp mornings, and cool, dry afternoons ideal for long days on the trail.
Beat the Leaf-Peeping Crowds - You’re ahead of the main tourist rush, meaning fewer convoys, less trailhead congestion, and more open space to soak in the scenery.

Owl Creek Pass: Golden Corridors in the San Juans

Rating: Easy (Stock 4x4 Friendly)
Elevation: ∼10,114ft
Peak Leaf Timing: Late September to very early October (color is just starting now, so plan on the last week of September for the best glow if weather holds).
Why It’s a Fall Favorite: Sweeping aspen corridors that blaze gold this time of year, with dramatic views of Chimney Rock and Courthouse Mountain.
Local Tip: Time your run for late afternoon when the western light sets the aspen leaves on fire.
Seasonal Watch-Out: Can get muddy after storms check drainage crossings before committing.

Weston Pass: A High Pass with High Reward

Rating: Easy to Moderate
Elevation: ∼11,921ft
Peak Leaf Timing: Late September through the first week of October (though some exposed slopes are already turning earlier than usual this year).
Why It’s a Fall Favorite: A high pass without high drama and plenty of color from both aspen and willows, plus fewer rigs than Mosquito or Boreas.
Local Tip: Start from the Fairplay side for the gentler climb and morning light in your favor. Seasonal Watch-Out: Snow can drift in early on the Leadville side and keep an eye on the 5280 Offroad Trail Report for updates.

Hancock Pass & Alpine Tunnel Road: History and High-Clearance Towns

Rating: Moderate (High-Clearance Recommended)
Elevation: ∼12,140ft
Peak Leaf Timing: Mid-to-late September for high sections, early October for valleys near St. Elmo (current color is patchy - expect better glow in the next 7 to 10 days)
Why It’s a Fall Favorite: Combines rugged mining history with vivid color in the valley approaches. The town of St. Elmo is worth a stop, especially when framed by golden aspen.
Local Tip: Pair with nearby Tincup Pass for a full-day fall loop.
Seasonal Watch-Out: Above-treeline sections can get icy so start early and be down before the afternoon chill.

Grand Mesa OHV Trails: Aspen Forests Without the Crowds

Rating: Easy to Difficult (Multiple Routes)
Elevation: 10,000+ft plateau
Peak Leaf Timing: Late September through mid-October (as of this week, aspen groves are still mostly green with lime highlights and scattered yellow; expect full peak near the end of September).
Why It’s a Fall Favorite: The Grand Mesa’s aspen forests are some of the thickest in the state. You can string together trails for hours without seeing another soul.
Local Tip: Bring a camera and a fishing rod because many of the Mesa’s 300+ lakes are still accessible this time of year.
Seasonal Watch-Out: Watch for hunters - October overlaps with big game season in many units.

Trail Etiquette Reminder for Fall Runs

Stay the Trail - Even muddy sections, don’t widen the path.
Yield & Communicate - Uphill traffic has right-of-way, but a smile and a wave go a long way.
Leave No Trace - Fall winds scatter trash easily; pack it in, pack it out.
Respect Closures - If the gate’s closed, the trail’s closed, don’t be “that guy.”

Seasonal Gear Reminder

Fall in Colorado can flip the script fast, what starts as a sunny day can end in a sleet storm at 11,000 feet. Before you head for these hidden gems, make sure your rig is stocked with cold-weather essentials:

Extra Warm Layers & Gloves - You may not plan to be out after dark, but the mountains don’t care about your schedule.
Recovery Gear Rated for Cold - Synthetic winch lines, soft shackles, and snatch straps handle better than stiff, frozen gear.
Traction Aids - Early ice on shaded switchbacks can turn an easy trail into a recovery scene.
Hot Drink Kit - A small camp stove or thermos of coffee can be a morale saver in freezing temps.

We’ve got a full Cold-Weather Recovery Gear Guide coming up in October, make sure you’re ready for that first unexpected snow wheeling day.

Final Push – Earn Your Last Miles

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to hit the high country, this is it. The peaks are glowing, the air is crisp, and the trails are still open, though many groves are just approaching peak color and will be at their best in the next 1–2 weeks. Over the next two weeks, the best high-elevation colors will give way to bare branches and the first dustings of snow. So grab your crew, run through your recovery and cold-weather gear checklist, and set your sights on these lesser-known routes that deliver the full Colorado fall experience without the tourist traffic jams. Because at 5280 Offroad, we know the most legendary adventures happen where the pavement ends and grit is earned, not given.

Fall Wheeling Essentials: More Than Just a Camera

Chasing fall colors in the mountains means being prepared for rapidly changing conditions. The crisp autumn air can quickly turn to snow, rain, or a significant temperature drop.

Layers are Your Best Friend: Pack warm clothes, a waterproof jacket, and even a hat and gloves. You might start in a t-shirt and end up in a winter coat.
Tire Pressure & Traction: Even on less technical trails, fallen leaves can be slick when wet. Ensure your tires are properly aired down for optimal traction.
Check the Forecast (and the Trail Report!): Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Always check localized forecasts for your specific trail, and most importantly, consult the 5280 Offroad Colorado 4x4 Trail Report for the absolute latest conditions, closures, or unexpected snow. We cross-reference with official U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) sources to give you the most accurate intel.
TreadLightly!: Remember our core principle. Stay on designated trails, pack out everything you pack in, and respect the fragile beauty of the changing leaves. Don't drive off-trail to get a better photo – find a safe, established pull-off.

Ready to Chase the Gold?

Colorado’s fall season is short, spectacular, and already in motion and there’s no better way to experience it than from the driver’s seat of your 4x4 in the backcountry. Right now, high-country routes are glowing with peak color, from the thick aspen corridors of Owl Creek Pass to the quiet plateaus of the Grand Mesa. Whether you’re drawn to the mining history and alpine views of Hancock Pass, the sweeping panoramas of Weston Pass, or the hidden lakes and forests tucked away on lesser-known trails, you’re in for a ride that’s pure Colorado magic.

Want to ensure your rig and your skills are ready for these autumn adventures? Explore our 5280 Offroad Training Programs – from basic vehicle prep to advanced trail techniques, we'll help you confidently navigate any landscape. And don't forget to gear up at the 5280 Offroad Shop with our trail-tested merchandise, built for the grit and beauty of Colorado.

Stay safe, chase those colors, and we'll see you on the trails!

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