Best Places Near Colorado Springs to Enjoy the Fall Colors

Did you see the great article in Sunday’s Gazette about the best places in Colorado to take in the fall colors?  If not, click here to read what you missed.  While the article described a number of excellent destinations all around the state, don’t forget that you can find amazing colors right here in our own backyard!  Some of the places that I highly recommend, which are “close to home” and close to the Lodge at Garden of the Gods Club, are:

• Take Highway 24 west out of Colorado Springs and travel approximately 22 miles and turn left onto CO-67.  This will take you to the town of Cripple Creek, and the aspens along the way are truly spectacular.  Be sure to go in the late morning to mid-afternoon when the sun reflects off the leaves and provides the best viewing time.
• If you want to get out of the car and stretch your legs, follow the same directions as above, but when you turn left off Highway 24 and onto CO-67, approximately four miles in on your right will be the entrance to Mueller State Park, where there are plenty of trails for you to enjoy.  (Please note:  If you are planning to hike the trails, you will have to leave the pets at home, as dogs are not allowed on the trails in this state park.)
• Another place that I recommend (and I go there around this time every year) is Rampart Reservoir outside of Woodland Park.  Again, travel on Highway 24 west out of Colorado Springs, and then click here for more directions.  You’ll have to make a few turns once you get into Woodland Park, but the scenery will be well worth the drive.  (You may want to bring your fishing pole for this one!)

As I have said before, whereever you go and whatever you do, just GET OUT!