Best Things to Do in Colorado in September (2025 Edition)

Unmissable Fall Foliage: Nature’s Grand Finale

As summer gently fades, Colorado transforms into a vibrant tapestry of gold, orange, and crimson—an unforgettable visual feast capped by snow-dusted peaks. At the heart of this autumnal spectacle stand the golden aspens, illuminating mountain slopes across the state with fiery brilliance.

Top Scenic Drives & Viewing Spots

• Kenosha Pass (along Hwy 285, NE of Fairplay): Enjoy peaceful trails weaving through quivering aspens, culminating in an overlook with sweeping views of South Park Valley. Perfect for photos or an early morning golden hour stroll.
• San Juan Skyway: Embark on a breathtaking 236-mile loop through the San Juan Mountains. The legendary “Million Dollar Highway” section, between Ouray and Silverton, dazzles with dramatic overlooks and vibrant fall hues.
• Peak to Peak Highway & Rocky Mountain National Park: A photographer’s dream—ideal for capturing radiant forests against majestic mountain backdrops.

Apple Picking and Cider Tasting: Harvest Delights

September marks the peak orchard season—a time for friends and families to roam apple-laden boughs, sip freshly pressed cider, and relish the crisp, sweet taste of autumn.

Top Orchard Destinations:

• Near Denver: Berry Patch Farms, Nelms Farm, and Ya Ya Farm and Orchard offer charming U-pick experiences.
• Near Grand Junction: Fruit Basket Orchards and Big D’s Delicious Orchards in Hotchkiss are perfect for an afternoon adventure.
• Cideries to Visit:
  • Stem Ciders (Denver), Colorado Cider Company (Western Slope),
  • Wild Cider (Firestone), Scrumpy’s Hard Cider (Fort Collins), St. Vrain Cidery (Longmont), Jack Rabbit Hill, and Big B’s Juices and Hard Cider (Hotchkiss), plus Talbott’s Cider Company in Palisade.

Pueblo vs. Hatch Chiles: A Spicy Showdown

Can’t decide between Colorado’s robust Pueblo chiles and New Mexico’s beloved Hatch peppers? September gives you the perfect excuse to taste-test both. Pueblo chile shines this month—thick, meaty, and ideal for roasting. Don’t miss the annual Chile & Frijoles Fest in Pueblo—packed with raw, roasted, and fiery options at every heat level.

Elk Rutting Season: Witness the Wild

September in Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park brings Elktober—the dramatic, primal mating season of elk. Hear the haunting bugle of bulls, watch velvet shed as antlers sharpen, and catch thrilling clashes over prime mates. Estes Park even hosts Elk Fest, typically held at the end of September—celebrating with live music, vendors, and family-friendly elk-themed events.

Pumpkin Patches & Harvest Activities

Fall isn’t complete without pumpkin picking, hayrides, and corn mazes. Classic farms offer playful and picturesque experiences for all ages:

• Cottonwood Farm (Boulder)
• Anderson Farms (Erie)
• Miller Farms (Platteville)
• Long Neck Pumpkin Farm (Colorado Springs)
  …plus seasonal maze attractions and open-air markets.

Festivals, Festivals, Festivals!

September bursts with celebrations honoring beer, wine, local traditions, and cinematic arts:

• Colorado State Fair & Rodeo (Pueblo — Aug 22 to Sep 1, 2025): A beloved institution with livestock exhibitions, rodeos, parades, carnival rides, cowboy-style eats, and artisan vendors.
• Mind Blown Telluride: Friday and Saturday nights at The Peaks Resort & Spa bring mind-bending magic performances.
• Civic Center EATS (Denver): Through mid-October, Denver’s Civic Center Park comes alive with 10–15 gourmet food trucks offering creative local flavors.
• Great American Beer Festival (Denver): Held late September or early October, this is one of the largest beer festivals globally, featuring thousands of brews judged and sampled by aficionados
• Oktoberfests & Beverage Festivals: Enjoy regional hits like the Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival, Denver International Wine Festival, and cozy Oktoberfest celebrations across the state.
• Crested Butte Film Festival (Sep 24–28, 2025): A four-day cinematic gem showcasing international films in a quirky mountain town.
• Telluride Film Festival (Aug 29–Sep 1, 2025): A prestigious event held over Labor Day weekend, renowned for its art-forward curation and early fall premieres.
• Colorado Balloon Classic (Labor Day Weekend, Colorado Springs): The longest-running hot air balloon event in the Rockies lights up the sky over Prospect Lake.
• A Taste of Colorado (Downtown Denver, Civic Center Park): A free, three-day festival over Labor Day weekend featuring live music, food, crafts, and interactive exhibits.

Beyond the Canon: Hidden Gems & Regional Treasures

• Palisade: A Western Slope delight—home to over 30 wineries, peach-picking orchards, rustic camping, and stunning hiking and rafting scenery. A relaxed and cultural escape from ski-town clichés.
• Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs): Visit in September for fewer crowds and unforgettable red rock formations bathed in fall colors—sunrise and sunset are pure magic.
• Colorado Springs Region: Offers Pikes Peak via the nostalgic Cog Railway, the breathtaking Royal Gorge, and adrenaline-pumping attractions like the via ferrata and Cloudscraper zipline.
• Denver & Boulder: Pair urban exploration with nature—wander artisanal Pearl Street in Boulder, hike Chautauqua or Mt. Sanitas, stroll the Denver Art Museum, or dine along the Santa Fe Art District.

Bonus Tips for an Elevated September Trip

• Timing is everything: For peak foliage, plan between mid-September and early October. Light changes early—make the most of mornings for dramatic lighting.
• Pack smart: Layering is key. Add a light jacket, sturdy boots, and, if camping, gear like portable heaters and insect repellents will keep you comfortable
• Car rental = freedom: Navigating Colorado’s vast landscapes is easiest by car. Many destinations—like Palisade’s hidden wineries or the million-dollar vistas—are best reached this way.
• Stay local to soak in the flavor: Charming towns like Crested Butte, Estes Park, Palisade, and Ouray add character—stay in cozy B&Bs or historic lodges to soak up stories.
• Book ahead: Popular festivals and fall foliage hikes draw crowds. Secure lodging, tickets, and reservations early to avoid disappointment.

Summary Table: Top September Activities in Colorado

Whether you’re chasing fiery foliage, sampling crisp apple cider, hunting pumpkins with the kids, or raising your glass at one of Colorado’s spirited festivals—September unfolds like a curated storybook of colors, tastes, and experiences. Colorado in the fall is everything you didn’t know you needed—but won’t soon forget.

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