Chase changing fall colors at Colorado state parks

Bridget O'Rourke
Statewide Public Information Officer
720-219-2919
[email protected]

DATE: September 17, 2025

DENVER — Colorado’s vibrant “leaf-peeping” season has begun and will transform the trees into a breathtaking canvas of colors over the next few weeks. The stunning fall foliage display, a spectacle that draws annual crowds to Colorado, is a unique time to experience Colorado’s diverse landscapes. 

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) welcomes outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the changing fall colors at Colorado’s world-class state parks and encourages visitors to play a proactive role in protecting them.  

“We ask that folks “rushing for gold” plan ahead and have location backup plans because parks get crowded, and parking is limited at certain trailheads,” said Todd Farrow, park manager at Golden Gate Canyon State Park. “Please only park in designated areas and remember that parking along roads is prohibited.” 

Respecting shared outdoor spaces and adhering to the guidelines outlined below is not just a personal responsibility but a significant contribution to Colorado’s conservation. 

Know Before You Go
For a smooth and enjoyable visit, it's always best to have a backup plan if your desired trailhead or park is crowded. Remember, park rangers can issue parking tickets or even tow vehicles that park illegally or block traffic. Planning ahead ensures you're prepared for any situation and can fully enjoy your outdoor experience.

• Plan your visit with the Colorado State Parks Guide (Guía De Los Parques Naturales).
• Use the State Park Finder to explore a comprehensive map of Colorado state parks.
• Visit a state park’s Facebook page before you visit to learn updates about the leaves changing colors.
• Visitors can enter Colorado state parks with a daily or annual state park pass (including a Keep Colorado Wild Pass).
• Visit a park during the week or plan an early morning adventure to avoid crowds.

Stick To Trails
While shortcuts for the perfect selfie can be tempting, staying on the trail will decrease your risk of injury and protect trailside plants and local wildlife. 

• Download or screenshot a trail map on your phone to follow marked trails.
• Printed state park trail maps are available in park visitor centers.
• Download the free COTREX app to find trailheads and trail maps.

Leave It As You Find It
Parking in designated areas is critical — undesignated parking can destroy vegetation, ignite wildfires in dry grass and block first-responder vehicles during emergencies. 

• Help keep our trees healthy by not carving into them or pulling down branches.
• Avoid moving and stacking rocks — they stabilize and protect trails from erosion.

Keep Wildlife Wild
Many species call Colorado home, making it the perfect destination for wildlife watching in state parks. However, wildlife can get aggressive if they aren’t given enough space and approached by humans. 

• Be prepared to cross paths with wildlife.
• Do not feed, touch or approach wildlife.
• Be BearWise to avoid bear encounters while hiking.
• Watch for wildlife on roadways.
• Elk and moose are in their annual rut (mating season), so give them space and do not approach them. Elk and moose can get territorial and attack when they feel threatened. 
• Keep dogs leashed and put waste bags in a trash can. Do not hang waste bags on trees or in vault toilets. 
• If you see wildlife that appears sick or injured, leave it alone. Call your local CPW office and ask a trained wildlife officer for guidance. 

“How we explore our outdoor spaces matters. Conservation starts small, but all of our proactive steps to leave a state park better than we found it adds up in a meaningful way,” said Farrow.  “No matter where you plan to explore this fall, please respect our natural resources, park staff, volunteers and fellow recreationists.” 

Attention Colorado residents: Join us in keeping Colorado, Colorado. Get a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass with your next vehicle registration and support our state parks, wildlife conservation and outdoor educational programs. Learn more at cpw.info/keepcoloradowild.