As the leaves begin to turn shades of crimson, gold, and amber, thousands of fall color enthusiasts flock to witness the magnificent autumn spectacle. Colorado, with its stunning landscapes and Rocky Mountain backdrop, offers some of the most vibrant fall colors in the country. Here we feature three towns that stand out as prime destinations for leaf peepers seeking that perfect palette of autumn hues.

Aspen

Named after the quaking trees that turn a brilliant yellow come fall, Aspen lives up to its reputation for stunning fall foliage. The town itself is postcard-perfect with victorian buildings and high-end boutiques and galleries. But the real draw in autumn is the surrounding forests that explode into a sea of yellow punctuated by the evergreen pines. The Maroon Bells, two majestic peaks set against Maroon Lake, provide perhaps the most photographed scene in all of Colorado during the fall season. For a panoramic view of the kaleidoscope of colors, take a drive up Independence Pass or hike on one of many trails in the area.

Telluride

Nestled in a box canyon surrounded by high cliffs and mountain peaks, Telluride is another jewel for fall colors in Colorado. The San Juan Mountains offer an awe-inspiring backdrop as the aspens in the area change color. The trails here are numerous and offer varying levels of difficulty, promising everyone from casual walkers to serious hikers a chance to immerse themselves in nature’s autumn art show. A free gondola ride between Telluride and Mountain Village provides exquisite views of the sprawling canvases of yellows and oranges.

Crested Butte

Often referred to as “Colorado’s Last Great Ski Town,” Crested Butte also shines when it comes to autumn allure. This mountain town’s claim to fame may well be the diverse species that contribute to its fall colors—with aspens in abundance accompanied by cottonwoods and willows that add their own colors to the mountain sides. Kebler Pass is a particularly famous spot where you can drive through one of the largest aspen groves in North America. Each bend in the road brings a fresh perspective on fall’s fleeting beauty.

For those seeking an unforgettable fall experience, these Colorado towns deliver with their spectacular autumnal displays. Whether it’s Aspen’s golden groves against bluebird skies, Telluride’s kaleidoscope framed by rugged peaks, or Crested Butte’s rich tapestry woven through with wildlife sightings—these communities are amongst America’s finest showcases for nature’s seasonal transformation.