Day Trip Through the Guanella Pass Summit to See The Gorgeous Fall Foliage
Yesterday, we embarked on an unforgettable journey through the Guanella Pass Summit in Colorado, a prime destination for fall foliage. As we ascended, we were greeted with panoramic views of golden aspen trees, sparkling creeks, and the majestic bighorn sheep gracefully wandering through the landscape. The vibrant transformation of the leaves from deep greens to brilliant yellows and fiery oranges is one of the many reasons why I adore fall—along with the crisp, cool air. Fall in Colorado is an experience like no other, and the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway is an absolute must-see if you’re in the area.
Stretching between the charming town of Georgetown and the peaceful town of Grant, the Guanella Pass takes you through two spectacular national forests: Arapaho National Forest and Pike National Forest. Arapaho rises to 11,669 feet in just 12 miles, offering awe-inspiring mountain views as you wind your way up. Once you cross into Pike National Forest, the views only get more breathtaking, with towering peaks, sprawling forests, and incredible wildlife. The entire route is a visual feast, and if you’re like us, you’ll find yourself stopping at every turn to snap a few photos and take in the scenery. Though the drive usually takes about an hour, our explorations turned it into a leisurely three-hour adventure.
Beyond the striking fall colors, Guanella Pass is a nature lover’s paradise. We stumbled upon a picturesque trail nestled among golden aspen groves, where the ground was blanketed in fallen yellow leaves, and a babbling creek added to the serenity. The snow-capped mountains in the distance, surrounded by vibrant green and yellow trees, made for the perfect backdrop.
I couldn’t help but capture the magic in every frame. To truly experience the beauty of it, visit my photography website and immerse yourself in the stunning fall photos I captured along the Guanella Pass Byway.
Where’s your favorite spot to witness Colorado’s fall foliage? Share your top destinations in the comments—I’d love to hear about your hidden gems!
