Viewing the Fall Colors the Byway Way

September 16, 2014 - Statewide Transportation Plan - DENVER – As summer turns into autumn, many of Colorado’s Scenic and Historic Byways provide tourists more than just another way to see the changing of the colors from green to gold and red. Combining a fall drive with activities that are taking place in the towns along Colorado’s Byways can enhance the overall experience.

Here are some suggested Byways and upcoming events:

September 18-21, Colorado Mountain Winefest, Palisade

Byway: West Elk Loop

September 19-21, Pedal the Plains, Fort Morgan & Sterling

Byway: Pawnee Pioneer Trails

September 19-21, Creede’s Fall Color Cruisin’ the Canyon Car Show, Creede

Byway: Silver Thread Scenic and Historic Byway

September 19-21, 20th Annual Chile & Frijoles Festival, Pueblo

Byway: Frontier Pathways

September 20, Mountains to the Desert Bike Ride, Telluride & Gateway

Byway: San Juan Skyway & Unaweep Tabeguache

September 20, Uncorked Wine & Music Festival, Lake City

Byway: Alpine Loop

September 20, 2014 Autumn Gold – A Festival of Bands, Brats ‘n Beer, Estes Park

Byway: Peak to Peak

September 21, 21st Annual North Park Stockgrowers Ranch Rodeo, Walden

Byway: Cache la Poudre-North Park

September 23-27, Historic ATV Color Tour, Buena Vista

Byway: Collegiate Peaks

September 25-28, 10th Annual Spanish Peaks International Celtic Music Festival, La Veta

Byway: Scenic Highway of Legends

September 26-28, Mancos Valley Mesa Verde Country Balloon Festival, Mancos

Byway: Trail of the Ancients

September 26-Oct 1, Aspen Filmfest

Byway: Top of the Rockies

September 27-28, Harvest Festival, Caňon City

Byway: Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway

A couple of websites can enhance your journey.  Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers a Rush to the Gold Brochure and other suggestions at cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/SeasonalFall.aspx.  And, the U.S. Forest Service has information on why leaves change color at www.na.fs.fed.us/fhp/pubs/leaves/leaves.shtm

This year, Colorado’s Scenic and Historic Byways program is celebrating 25 years of service to tourists and the state’s economy by designating routes that provide exceptional scenic, historical, cultural, and recreational opportunities.

For additional publications or more information about the Scenic and Historic Byways, please visit www.ColoradoByways.org.