(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — Peak fall color viewing time is coming up this weekend, Saturday, Sept. 27, and Sunday, Sept. 28, and local outdoor expert, “Hiking Bob” Falcone, has provided a list of his favorite locations for enjoying the autumn display.
Hiking Bob said that the trails at the north end of Mueller State Park are at the top of his list, as they have the highest concentration of aspen trees within an hour of Colorado Springs. The Buffalo Rock, Cahill Pond, Moonshine trails, and the southern portion of the Cheesman Ranch trail are all excellent hikes for viewing fall colors. Mueller State Park does require entrance fees or the Keep Colorado Wild Pass, and dogs are not allowed on any trails in the park.
Horsethief Park, off of the Horsethief Falls/Pancake Rocks Trail, is also a favorite of Hiking Bob’s, as it offers a mix of aspens and bushes that turn a variety of colors, and it has the backdrop of Sentinel Peak. For those looking for prime photo options, there is a pond with a grove of aspens behind it about a mile up the trail, and on a calm day, the reflections are lovely. As this is a popular trail, parking is somewhat limited, and going on a weekday will provide a better chance at finding a spot.
Hiking Bob said that the Mount Esther Trail in Crowe Gulch off of the Pikes Peak Highway is often bypassed by people in a hurry to get to the summit, making it a good option for those who don’t want to share the trail with the crowds. The trail passes through a vast meadow with plenty of aspens to see. As a bonus tip, Hiking Bob says it’s a great place to hike in the summer as well, when the wildflowers are in bloom…