When to Plan Your Fall Photos for the Best Foliage Colors in Colorado

Fall in Colorado is a magical time when nature puts on a breathtaking show of color, making it the perfect backdrop for your family portraits. There’s something uniquely beautiful about capturing your family’s love amidst a sea of golden aspens, fiery reds, and deep oranges. But timing is everything! Planning your session when the foliage is at its peak ensures that your photos are as stunning as the memories they represent.

To help you plan the perfect fall photoshoot, I've put together a guide to the best times for fall foliage in different parts of Colorado. With these insights, you can select the ideal timeframe for your family portraits that capture the vibrant beauty of the season.

1. Northern Colorado (Fort Collins, Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park): Late September – Early October

Northern Colorado is one of the first areas in the state to experience fall’s golden transformation. This region, known for its picturesque mountain views and serene lakes, becomes a wonderland of warm hues starting in late September. Rocky Mountain National Park is particularly stunning, with its towering aspens glowing in shades of gold and orange.

Best Time to Schedule: September 25 – October 5

To capture the best colors, aim for the last week of September through the first week of October. The cooler temperatures at higher elevations bring about an earlier peak, so timing it right ensures you catch the foliage at its most vibrant. This is a beautiful location for family portraits with majestic mountains as your backdrop.

Perfect Locations:

• Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park for classic mountain views
• Hidden Valley and Sprague Lake for a more intimate, secluded feel
• The quaint town of Estes Park with its charming rustic vibes

2. Central Colorado (Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge): Late September – Mid-October

As you move towards Central Colorado, think iconic mountain towns like Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge—places known for their stunning fall foliage. This area boasts some of the most iconic aspen groves in the state, where the hillsides turn into waves of gold. The vibrant colors often last a bit longer here, giving you a slightly larger window to schedule your session.

Best Time to Schedule: October 1 – October 15

Peak colors in this region typically occur between the first and second weeks of October. The higher elevations tend to change first, followed by the lower valleys, giving you a rolling display of color that makes timing a bit more flexible.

Perfect Locations:

• Maroon Bells near Aspen for a classic, postcard-perfect backdrop
• Vail’s Gore Creek for lovely riverside shots surrounded by golds and reds
• Breckenridge’s Boreas Pass for sweeping views of golden landscapes and mountain vistas

3. Southern Colorado (Telluride, Durango, Crested Butte): Early to Late October

Southern Colorado, with its dramatic mountain peaks and wide valleys, is often the last to see the change of seasons, offering the longest window to capture those iconic fall colors. Telluride, Durango, and Crested Butte are renowned for their vibrant displays of aspens set against rugged, towering peaks, creating a breathtaking and timeless setting for family portraits.

Best Time to Schedule: October 10 – October 20

In this region, foliage tends to peak later, giving families a bit more flexibility in planning their sessions. Crested Butte, often called the "Wildflower Capital of Colorado," becomes a vibrant wonderland of fall colors that are just as stunning as its spring blooms.

Perfect Locations:

• The Telluride Valley Floor for its mix of mountains, rivers, and endless groves of aspens
• Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, home to one of the largest aspen groves in North America
• Durango’s San Juan Skyway for beautiful, expansive views perfect for capturing large family portraits

Tips for Planning Your Fall Photoshoot

• Book Early: Fall is one of the most popular times for family photos, and sessions fill up quickly. Securing your spot early ensures you’ll be able to choose the perfect date for peak foliage.

• Embrace the Layers: Colorado’s fall weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers. Cozy sweaters, scarves, and stylish boots not only keep you warm but also add a beautiful, textured look to your photos.

• Time of Day Matters: The best light for capturing fall colors is during the golden hour—just after sunrise or just before sunset. This warm, soft light enhances the vibrant colors of the foliage and creates a beautiful, glowing effect in your portraits.

• Add Personal Touches: Bring along a favorite blanket, mugs for a pretend hot cocoa session, or even your family’s beloved pet. These little touches can make your photos feel more personal and capture the essence of your family.

For this year's fall foliage color map, click here!

Capture Your Family’s Fall Magic

There’s nothing quite like the magic of Colorado in the fall. It’s a season of beauty, change, and cherished traditions—making it the perfect time to capture your family’s story. If you’re ready to plan your family’s fall photoshoot, let’s connect! Call the studio at [Your 303-396-7155 to schedule your session and secure your spot during peak foliage. I look forward to creating beautiful memories with you.