Ginkgo.
Every fall, ginkgo trees display vibrant yellow leaves. Plant ginkgo in full sun or partial shade so it gets at least four hours of direct sun daily. These trees aren’t huge, reaching a height of twenty-five to fifty feet and a spread of twenty-five to thirty-five feet at maturity. They grow fairly quickly, adding one to two feet annually. Be aware: in autumn, female trees drop sticky, odorous fruit that ripens on the ground and may cause a skin rash if touched. Avoid this problem by asking the experts at a nursery for help finding a male tree.
(US zones 3 to 8; Canada zone 4)
White Oak.
At maturity, these sizeable trees reach height and width from fifty to eighty feet, growing about one to two feet per year. In addition to providing red and burgundy fall colors, they also boast an abundance of acorns—a key food source for wildlife. This tree requires four hours of daily sun, so plant in full sun or partial shade.
(US zones 3 to 9; Canada zone 4)
Black Tupelo.
Black tupelos overdeliver fall color by offering a mix of red, purple, yellow, and orange on the same tree. They are on the smaller side, growing between thirty- and fifty-feet high, spreading from twenty to thirty feet, and growing about one to two feet per year. Bees love them, and beekeepers/honey producers often like to keep their beehives nearby; the result is a light-colored, mild-tasting honey.
(US zones 4 to 9; Canada zones 5 to 7)
Eastern Flowering Dogwood.
Dogwoods are landscape workhorses. They offer year-long interest with flowers in spring, bright-green leaves in summer, colorful red leaves in fall, and interesting branch shapes and bark patterns in winter. This is another small variety, reaching a height of twenty to forty feet, a spread of twenty feet at full maturity, and growing about one to two feet every year. Of all the trees on this list, these are the hardiest—thriving in nearly any level of sun or shade.
(US zones 5 to 9; Canada zones 2 to 9)
Paper Birch.
Paper birches deliver bright golden-yellow to dullish brown-yellow fall color. You can peel the bark off in layers and use it like paper (hence its name). These trees grow about one to two feet per year, reaching a height of fifty to seventy feet and a spread of thirty-five feet at full maturity. Plant these trees in full sun or partial shade, ensuring at least four hours of direct sunlight daily.
(US zones 2 to 7; Canada zones 0 to 6)
Tulip Tree.
Tulip trees add a golden glow to your fall landscape. They require sun, so plant where they can get at least six hours of sunshine daily. These tall trees reach a height of seventy to ninety feet at maturity with a spread of forty feet, and they are fast growers that add two or more feet annually. They can also be long-lived trees: a tulip tree (also known as tulip poplar) at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate was planted in 1785, is still living, and is currently 130 feet tall.
(US zones 4 to 9; Canada zones 3 to 4)
Sassafras.
Yellow, orange, red, and purple are the autumn colors you can expect from the sassafras tree. In addition to color, these trees are known for their pleasant aroma and their bark that is the traditional flavoring for root beer. Plant them in full sun or partial shade for at least four hours of direct sunlight daily. These trees grow one to two feet per year, reach a height of thirty to sixty feet, and a spread of twenty-five to forty feet.
(US zones 4 to 9; Canada zone 5)
Fall In Colorado.
Colorado is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and there's no better time to experience its beauty than during the fall. As the leaves turn from green to vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red, the state's mountains, valleys, and forests transform into a stunning tapestry of colors. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, photographer, or simply looking for a scenic drive, Colorado offers an array of destinations to immerse yourself in the splendor of autumn. From iconic mountain peaks to charming historic towns, these locations provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying the fall foliage in 2024.
Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are two of the most photographed mountains in North America, located near Aspen. In the fall, the striking peaks are complemented by shimmering golden aspen trees surrounding Maroon Lake. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views by taking a short hike around the lake or exploring nearby trails. The reflections of the peaks and foliage in the clear water create a picturesque scene that is especially popular among photographers. Due to its popularity, consider visiting early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Rocky Mountain National Park
This expansive national park offers a diverse array of landscapes and ecosystems, making it a prime destination for witnessing autumn colors. Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in North America, provides sweeping vistas of the changing aspens and subalpine terrain. There are numerous trails for all skill levels, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant foliage. The Bear Lake area is particularly beautiful in the fall, with mirrored reflections of the foliage on the water. Wildlife such as elk are also more active during this season.
Guanella Pass
Guanella Pass Scenic Byway stretches between Georgetown and Grant, offering a tranquil drive through dense forests of aspen trees. The pass reaches elevations over 11,000 feet, providing panoramic views of mountain peaks and vibrant fall colors. There are several pull-offs and trailheads along the way, allowing for leisurely hikes or picnics surrounded by nature. The area is less crowded than some other popular spots, making it a peaceful retreat for leaf peepers.
Kebler Pass
Kebler Pass, located between Crested Butte and Paonia, is renowned for its extensive aspen groves, some of the largest in the United States. The road is mostly dirt but typically well-maintained, offering a scenic drive through a golden sea of aspen trees. The pass is a favorite for photographers looking to capture the beauty of fall foliage against the backdrop of the West Elk Mountains. Hiking trails and overlooks provide ample opportunity to explore and appreciate the stunning landscape.
San Juan Skyway
The San Juan Skyway is a 236-mile loop through the rugged San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. This scenic drive takes you through charming towns like Durango, Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride, each offering their unique autumnal charm. The Million Dollar Highway section between Silverton and Ouray is particularly famous for its dramatic views and steep cliffs. Throughout the drive, you'll encounter vast forests of aspens intermixed with towering peaks, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors.
Aspen
The town of Aspen and its surrounding areas are synonymous with fall foliage. Known for its namesake trees, the region offers a stunning display of colors that attract visitors from around the world. In addition to the natural beauty, Aspen provides a mix of cultural activities, shopping, and dining, making it a perfect blend of nature and luxury. Hiking trails such as the Hunter Creek Trail and the Smuggler Mountain Trail offer excellent opportunities to enjoy the fall scenery.
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
This historic byway runs from Estes Park to Central City, offering a leisurely drive through the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Along the route, you'll be surrounded by dense forests of aspens turning gold, with the occasional view of snow-capped peaks in the distance. The byway passes through quaint mountain towns like Nederland and Black Hawk, where you can stop to explore local shops and restaurants. It’s a great option for a day trip from Denver or Boulder.
Estes Park
Estes Park serves as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and is a charming town filled with cozy lodges, shops, and restaurants. In the fall, the surrounding hillsides come alive with vibrant colors, making it a picturesque destination. The town hosts various fall festivals and events, adding to the seasonal charm. Estes Park is also a great base for exploring the national park and its array of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Cripple Creek
Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies, Cripple Creek is a historic mining town with a rich history and breathtaking fall colors. The town itself offers a glimpse into Colorado’s gold rush past, with historic buildings and museums. Surrounding Cripple Creek, you'll find hillsides ablaze with aspen trees, accessible via scenic drives like the Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway. The combination of history and natural beauty makes Cripple Creek a unique fall destination.
Steamboat Springs
Known for its outdoor recreation and natural hot springs, Steamboat Springs offers a delightful fall experience. The area is dotted with aspen and cottonwood trees that provide a colorful display against the backdrop of the Yampa Valley. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, or
Fall In Love With MCM Collective
Fall in love with Colorado's breathtaking landscapes this season and let MCM Collective Real Estate be your guide to finding the perfect home amidst the golden hues of autumn. As the leaves transform into vibrant shades of gold and red, discover endless possibilities with our expert team by your side. Whether you're drawn to the majestic mountain views or the quaint charm of historic towns, MCM Collective is dedicated to making your Colorado real estate dreams a reality. Embrace the warmth and beauty of this season and make your fall truly unforgettable with us. Let’s turn over a new leaf together!
