Where to See Fall Foliage in Aurora, Colorado
Looking for the best places to see fall foliage in Aurora, Colorado? From easy family-friendly walks to longer trails for hiking, biking, and exploring, Aurora offers several ways to experience the changing colors of autumn. Discover scenic trails, wetlands, reservoirs, open spaces, and horseback riding routes where you can enjoy Aurora's fall landscape.
When to see Fall Colors in Aurora
Fall foliage in Aurora typically begins changing in September and continues into October, although peak color varies from year to year depending on weather and local conditions. The 2026 Fall Foliage Map is the ultimate visual planning guide to the annual progressive changing of the leaves.
Fall Foliage Trails
Bluff Lake Nature Center Loop
Distance: 1.5 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
Bluff Lake Nature Center Loop is an easy 1.5-mile trail that's well-suited for families and visitors looking for a shorter nature walk. The trail winds around Bluff Lake and offers opportunities to see native vegetation, birds, and other wildlife while enjoying Aurora's fall landscape.
Aurora Reservoir
Distance: 8 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
The Aurora Reservoir offers a longer trail experience surrounded by water, trees, and open space. In autumn, the area's deciduous trees add seasonal color to the landscape. The trail can be enjoyed for walking, hiking, biking, and fishing, making it a versatile destination for an outdoor day in Aurora. Dogs are permitted, but they must be leashed.
Sand Creek Greenway Trail
Distance: 12.2 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
The Sand Creek Greenway Trail stretches for more than 12 miles through the Denver metro area and offers opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. September and October bring cooler temperatures and changing vegetation along the trail, making fall a popular time to explore the greenway. Remember to bring a camera to take pictures of all the leaves!
Piney Creek Trail
Distance: 16.1 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
The route is especially beautiful in the fall when the scenery is colored in hues of yellow and orange by bright willows, lingering summer wildflowers, and a few trees. The months of May through October are ideal for hiking this trek. This can also be a perfect spot for a picnic lunch to break up the hike. There is plenty of space up there, so take the time to enjoy the views!
Smoky Hill Trail to Parker Road Trail Loop
Distance: 4.7 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
This 4.7-mile loop track is an accessible trail near Aurora, Colorado. It typically takes 1 hour and 29 minutes to complete this course, which is considered simple. The park is unique in that it has a wide variety of plants that you won't find anywhere else. The trail passes through an area with a variety of plant life, providing seasonal scenery for an autumn walk.
Jewell Wetlands Loop
Distance: 1 Mile
Difficulty: Easy
For a short, manageable hike with a rewarding view at the end, head to Jewell Wetlands Loop. You’ll be at the finish line in just one leisurely mile, and it’s easy enough for your pup to handle, too. Located in the heart of the city, this is a lovely hidden gem. The birds can be heard and seen in plenty there.
Ride Along the Trail on Horseback
If you’re on the hunt for scenic views in Aurora, sign up for a guided trail ride at 12 Mile Stables. Their ranch will accompany you through the property on some of the best trails and take you to the most picturesque locations. With trails to accommodate every skill level, you can enjoy fall’s beauty at your own speed.
Star K Ranch Open Space Loop
Distance: 1 Mile
Difficulty: Easy
The Star K Ranch Open Space Loop is an easy 1-mile trail for a short fall walk. Benches and picnic areas provide places to stop along the way, while the surrounding open space offers opportunities to experience Aurora's natural landscape. It's also an option for visitors looking to explore outdoors with their dog, where current leash regulations permit.
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