Fall color predictions — and early indications — say the autumn foliage this season should be vibrant and long lasting. A recent drive down the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway supports those theories. Although peak color is still several days away, the largest patches of aspen trees are looking healthy with a patchwork of golden yellow and lime green.
Barring any unexpected and unplanned snow or hail, neither of which is in the forecast for the next week at elevations along the drive, the colors should be in peak glory by the weekend of Sept. 20-22. The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is Colorado’s original designated scenic route.
Established in 1918, these 55 miles of roadway wind through mountain towns, national forest and a portion of Rocky Mountain National Park, starting in Estes Park and ending in Black Hawk. And although this time of year attracts scenic drivers for the fall colors, the route also has a wide variety of historic destinations, entertaining towns and lots of trails to explore. Starting in Estes Park just south of the intersection of U.
S. Highway and 34 and 36, Colorado Highway 7 is the northern section of this byway. Drive 7.
2 miles and drivers will reach Lily Lake and the Twin Sisters Trailhead, both in Rocky Mountain National Park. These two beautiful areas offer many photo opportunities, with color peaking the last week of September, along with a hike up to 11,418-foot Twin Sisters and a 0.75-mile walk around Lily Lake.
Continue south on Highway 7 to see ma.