Go for the Gold in Steamboat Springs
Fall is a magical season in Steamboat Springs. It always seems to happen all at once, as if a magical veil has been placed over the Aspens. The valley is suddenly covered in a picturesque palette of red, orange, and golden yellow hues just waiting to amaze all who look upon them.
The fall leaves in Steamboat Springs never cease to take your breath away – no matter how many times you’ve seen them.
We know that photos never do this stunning landscape justice, but here at The Astrid, we always want you to have the absolute best. So we’ve collected expert photography tips and mapped out the most beautiful routes to ensure that your tour of the fall leaves in Steamboat Springs is picture-perfect.
Drive through Divinity with These Routes
Highway 131 to Yampa
South of Steamboat Springs, Highway 131 takes you through quiet, charming towns that lay just outside the city and into the Flat Tops Wilderness area.
These towns are worth visiting on your journey – Have lunch at the Oak Creek Tavern, view the quaint town of Phippsburg, or embark on a quiet hike in Yampa to find a idyllic mountain lake and spend the rest of your afternoon marveling at the natural wonders the search for fall leaves in Steamboat Springs has led you to.
Buffalo Pass
Just a short drive from the downtown core of Steamboat Springs, Buffalo Pass offers unparalleled views of the canvas created just for the select few who venture down this path.
Take the winding dirt road through the glowing Aspens and into majestic valleys alive with the warm hues of the fall leaves.
Rabbit Ears Pass
Rabbit Ears is probably the most iconic spot for viewing the fall leaves in Steamboat Springs.
Named by early trappers for its appearance, Highway 40 begins climbing to Rabbit Ears Pass just east of Steamboat. There are a number of entry points along the way, including the lesser known Continental Divide Trail. (Did you know Steamboat Springs is an official Continental Divide Trail Gateway Community?)
North Routt County
If your happy place is on the water, this is the route you’ll want to take. Make your way on County Road 129/Elk River Road through the mountains and head to the sparkling waters of Steamboat Lake.
Steamboat Lake State Park is a dream destination for viewing the magnificent fall leaves in Steamboat Springs. The majestic Hahns Peaks provides the perfect backdrop for this serene nature park. Gaze across the lake as the tranquil waters reflect the stunning colors from the surrounding Aspens.
Tips for Taking the Best Photos of the Fall Leaves in Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is a favorite location among professional and amateur photographers for a good reason: the landscape is constantly changing and always beautiful.
There isn’t a season in Steamboat where you won’t find a photo-worthy scene – the nickname Colorful Colorado is well-earned.
Try some of these suggestions on your next trip:
- Sprinkle some water on a leaf for a glittering effect
- Break up the warm color palette by capturing some of the white, ultra-textured bark of the Aspen trees
- Set your alarm to catch the sunrise and the wildlife activity
- Stay for “Golden Hour”, about an hour before the sun sets to capture the glow and warmth of fall in your photos
- Keep the sun to your back to ensure the colors stay as vibrant as possible
- Try out portrait and landscape shot
Embark on a Fall Tour into Luxury
According to Fox News, the Fall leaves in Steamboat Springs will be at their peak color between September 15th and September 29th. The colors will still be visually stunning later in the season, but this is expected to be the optimal time.
If you want to meet more community members and other foliage enthusiasts, the Mercedes-Benz Club is hosting a Fall Color Tour in Steamboat, and Gravity Haus is hosting a Fall Foliage Hike at Hahn’s Peak.
Now is the perfect time to book that flight into Steamboat Springs and experience the golden tones that have taken hold of hearts time and time again. From your first visit, you’ll feel the inevitable magnetic pull that Steamboat Springs creates.
At The Astrid, we’re creating a luxurious space for your family to call home for years to come. With bespoke decor, cozy and comfortable après-ski lounge areas, and private concierge services, you’ll have everything you need – and everything you didn’t know you needed, until now.
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