Tips for Viewing Peak Aspen Colors in the Fall

Across the Rocky Mountain west, aspen trees are famous for their fall colors. Beneath a dazzling blue sky, the bright gold of the leaves quaking in a light breeze is an experience many people will drive or hike miles to find.

The peak season for these beautiful trees is short, though, and the timing depends on several factors. Denver meteorologist Mike Nelson said that the timing of the aspen colors depends on summer and fall weather.

A summer that's too dry results in leaves that fall quickly and early. A summer that's too wet causes the leaves to turn brown or black. As well, hope for September weather that's dry and without any snow storms. Expect peak season to occur between mid September and the first week of October.

If you live in Colorado, famous for its splendid aspens, there are several resources to help you plan an aspen outing. The travel Web site Colorado.com offers a number of itineraries for those looking for a day trip in any of the state's best areas.

Even better, the Web site for Colorado State Parks keeps the status of the aspens under its jurisdiction updated so visitors can better time their visits. On the "park search" page, click on the "conditions" tab and search for "fall colors" to get a list of parks worth the drive.

The United States Forest Service has a page and a hotline devoted to information about fall colors, though it hasn't been updated for 2008 yet. The page promises information soon.

In Rocky Mountain National Park, located in the north central part of the state, aspen are abundant in the lower elevations. Drive on Trail Ridge Road through the Kawuneeche Valley to experience miles of aspens right along the road.

Also, Bear Lake Road, the Alberta Falls trail and the eastern slope of Long's Peak are must-see highlights in and near the park, according to Onroute.

If you want to keep heading north, the Sierra Madre mountains of southeast Wyoming, especially on the western side of the continental divide, have abundant aspen stands. Call the Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District for information on where to go and what the conditions are.

Perhaps the most famous spot is called Aspen Alley, where unusually tall, straight trees grow right to edge of the road. Take Wyoming Highway 70 west from Encampment and look for Deep Creek Road to the north.

The peak season is short, but a little planning ahead of time can make for a memorable trip.