We love autumn in Steamboat Springs! As the crisp air sweeps through the Yampa Valley, our region transforms into a vibrant tapestry of golds, oranges, and reds. This is the perfect time to lace up your hiking boots and explore the stunning fall foliage of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, Steamboat offers some of the most breathtaking trails to experience the peak of leaf peeping.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the fall season is the perfect time to explore the trails and experience the changing seasons. From scenic leaf peeping to crisp outdoor adventures, here are the top 10 autumn hikes in Steamboat Springs.
1. Fish Creek Falls Trail
Distance: 2.5 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Easy
Proximity to Downtown: 3 miles
Fish Creek Falls Trail is a must-visit for anyone wanting to combine gorgeous fall colors with the sight of a spectacular waterfall. This trail is a favorite of both locals and tourists alike, and this is for a good reason! This relatively easy, family-friendly, beautiful hike offers stunning views of the 280-foot Fish Creek Falls. In autumn, the surrounding aspen trees burst into vibrant colors, making it a perfect day for leaf peeping. The trail is short but packed with scenic rewards, making it ideal for a quick escape into nature. The trailhead is just a short drive from downtown Steamboat, making it an accessible option for a quick but rewarding hike.
2. Rabbit Ears Pass Trail
Distance: 5 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Proximity to Downtown: 17 miles
A bit further out but well worth the drive, Rabbit Ears Pass Trail provides panoramic views of the Yampa Valley and stunning fall foliage. The pass provides access to several trailheads where you can immerse yourself in the fall colors of the aspen trees. The trails here offer a variety of lengths and difficulties, ensuring something for every hiker. The moderate hike takes you to the base of the iconic Rabbit Ears rock formation, with plenty of opportunities to soak in the colorful aspen trees and enjoy a peaceful autumn afternoon.
3. Bluff Loop Trail
Distance: 5.5 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Proximity to Downtown: 8 miles
Bluff Loop Trail is a hidden gem featuring a serene lake surrounded by vibrant fall colors. The moderate hike through aspen groves and meadows offers fantastic opportunities for leaf peeping. The lake’s reflective surface provides a stunning backdrop for fall photographs and peaceful moments.
4. Long Lake Trail
Distance: 6 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Proximity to Downtown: 10 miles
The Long Lake Trail is a 6-mile round trip that takes you through a serene landscape of aspen groves and open meadows. This trail showcases a breathtaking mix of fall colors and alpine scenery. As you hike around the lake, you’ll be surrounded by aspen trees ablaze with autumn hues. The main trail’s relatively flat terrain makes it a great option for a leisurely hike while soaking in the vibrant colors of fall. Or, you can choose a more challenging route, making the hike moderately challenging, but both ways offer plenty of rewarding views and a serene atmosphere, perfect for a day of outdoor fun.
5. Mount Werner Trail
Distance: 8 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Hard
Proximity to Downtown: 3 miles
For a more strenuous hike with incredible rewards, try the Mount Werner Trail. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of colorful aspen groves and distant mountain ranges. The higher elevation provides a breathtaking backdrop for the golden hues of fall foliage. This challenging hike provides expansive views of the Steamboat Springs area and the changing colors of the surrounding aspen trees. The panoramic vistas at the top are well worth the effort, offering a perfect day out in the crisp autumn air.
6. Steamboat Springs Nature Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Easy
Proximity to Downtown: 1 mile
The Steamboat Springs Nature Trail is a short but delightful hike close to downtown. It’s ideal for a quick escape to enjoy the fall colors without straying too far from the city. The trail meanders through a mix of aspen and evergreen trees, providing a colorful and accessible outdoor experience.
7. Thunderhead Trail
Distance: 5.5 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Proximity to Downtown: 2 miles
Starting from the base of the Steamboat Ski Area, Thunderhead Trail climbs steadily for a 5.5-mile round trip. This trail is a great choice for leaf peeping as it passes through a variety of forested areas, including brilliant aspen stands. The top of the trail provides a sweeping view of the surrounding colorful landscape.
8. Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area – Gilpin Lake Trail
Distance: 11 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Hard
Proximity to Downtown: 20 miles
For avid hikers, the Gilpin Lake Trail in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area is a rewarding challenge. This strenuous hike takes you through rugged terrain and pristine alpine landscapes, culminating in the stunning Gilpin Lake. The fall colors are particularly striking against the backdrop of the lake’s crystal-clear waters.
9. Spring Creek Trail
Distance: 6 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Proximity to Downtown: 6 miles
A favorite among locals, Spring Creek Trail is a relatively easy 6-mile round trip that is perfect for autumn hiking. This trail offers a fantastic mix of autumn foliage and peaceful forest scenery. The hike features a diverse mix of terrain, including serene creekside paths and open meadows with stunning aspen groves. The main trail follows the creek through a colorful aspen forest, providing ample opportunities for leaf peeping and enjoying the vibrant fall palette. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a tranquil day outdoors.
10. Buffalo Pass Trail
Distance: 12 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Hard
Proximity to Downtown: 15 miles
Buffalo Pass Trail is a more challenging hike that rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Steamboat Springs and the surrounding fall landscape. While not a traditional hiking trail, Buffalo Pass Road is a scenic drive that offers some of the best autumn leaf peeping in the area. With numerous pull-offs and trails branching off from the road, you can stop and explore at your own pace. The trail ascends through colorful aspen groves and offers an impressive vista at the summit. It’s ideal for experienced hikers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of autumn. The colorful aspen trees and stunning mountain views are worth every minute.
Tips for Autumn Hiking in Steamboat Springs
Dress in Layers: Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changing temperatures by wearing layers.
Check Trail Conditions: Some trails may be muddy or icy during the fall, so check conditions before heading out.
Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the beauty of the area for future visitors.
STAY WITH STEAMBOAT LODGING COMPANY
No matter which trail you choose, Steamboat Springs offers an array of hikes that feature the fall season’s vibrant colors, natural beauty, breathtaking vistas, and crisp mountain air. So, lace up those hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to enjoy the colorful landscape in one of Colorado’s best mountain town, Steamboat Springs!
Steamboat Lodging Company is your local boots on the ground lodging company providing top-notch accommodations and assistance with all things Steamboat Springs. Call today to chat with one of our fantastic vacation planners!
CALL TODAY: 970-457-4785
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