5. San Isabel National Forest
Just north of Alamosa, we catch Highway 24, slowly coasting at a lower elevation as the prairie evolves into a forest ablaze with golden aspens. Entering the San Isabel National Forest, all roads lead to fall foliage beauty. Crystal clear rivers slice their way deep into the forest, often running along the highway.
The San Isabel National Forest is broken up into sections interspersed between mountain peaks. Most of the forest is the perfect elevation for aspen trees, and they were in their full golden glory. No matter what road we took, we satisfied our leaf-peeping dream.
Pro Tip: Aspens grow between 6,000 and 11,000 feet but are at their best at altitudes above 8,000 feet.
Photo credit: Ann Bush
As we approached the Rocky Mountains, we found many roads called passes that cross over the mountain peaks historically created by miners, loggers, or trappers. These industries cut down the original mountain pine trees, which nature replaced with deciduous trees that lose their leaves in style in the fall. As a result, over the years a few of these passes have become popular for fall foliage scenic drives.
Photo credit: Thomas Kreulen / Shutterstock.com
