Fall Colors Beckon Mobile Admirers

Travel Advisory

September 24, 2020 - Statewide News - Travelers should be aware of increased mountain traffic and leaf peepers outside their cars.

Pedestrians running across the street in front of other cars to see fall colors

Caption: Brilliant fall colors attract leaf peepers into the high country. Quaking aspen are turning gold near US 285 Kenosha Pass. CDOT urges drivers to slow down and watch for people outside their vehicles and crossing roadways.  


COLORADO – Travelers across the state of Colorado are taking to the mountain roads and passes to get a glimpse of the colorful foliage. The Colorado Department of Transportation reminds motorists to be aware of increased traffic, especially over the weekends. 

Every fall when the quaking aspens start to turn gold, high country roads and highways see an increase in traffic. Both Colorado locals and tourists alike hit the roads in their cars, trucks, motorcycles and RVs. CDOT officials stress the importance for drivers and those taking photos outside of their vehicles to watch out for each other. 

Be a Smart Leaf Peeper

CDOT shares these tips when driving along roads and highways this fall: 

  • Drivers are urged to look out for other vehicles that may be traveling at lower speeds. 
  • Watch for vehicles pulling off the roadways, and vehicles parked on the sides of the roads. 
  • Vehicles should always find safe, designated areas to park.
  • Motorists need to watch out for pedestrians! People will be out of their vehicles with their cameras.   
  • Pedestrians are encouraged to be extremely diligent and watch out for passing cars, trucks.
  • Follow state health guidelines related to COVID-19 and outdoor recreation. Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from fellow recreators and wear face coverings as much as possible when in close proximity of others.      

Be Aware of Construction Zones on Mountain Highways

Additionally, CDOT cautions drivers that construction work zones are present throughout the state on area highways. Most construction and maintenance projects shut down over the weekends, however some contractors take advantage of favorable weather and construction activity may be taking place on Saturdays.   

Pedestrians pulled over on the side of the road taking pictures of fall colors

Caption: These leaf peepers have found a safe place, and a good distance away from the highway, to pull off and take photos of the changing fall leaves. CDOT urges motorists to be aware of their surroundings: watch for slow moving vehicles and people outside of their cars.

Stay Informed