While Denver is scenic at any time of the year, it is especially so during autumn. The crimsons, oranges and yellows of the leaves contrast beautifully with the deep blue sky and rich green pines. While a lengthy trip to the mountains may first come to mind when one considers how to best enjoy the fall experience, no one has to travel far from the city to see beautiful foliage. These five spots are eagerly awaiting your arrival.
Washington Park:
(Bordered by Virginia Avenue on the north, Downing Street on the west, Louisiana Avenue on the south, and Franklin Street on the east)
It’s right down the road, so why not head over if you need a little mid-term study break? Students often take Wash Park for granted because it’s so close, but it’s a genuinely beautiful place nonetheless.
The reflection of the changing leaves against the sky in the park’s multiple lakes is spectacular. Taking a walk through any of the surrounding neighborhoods will also amaze. Consider making a stop at the nearby Wash Perk coffee shop and grab a warm beverage to complete the experience. Just be mindful of the geese.
Lookout Mountain:
(999 Lookout Mt. Road, Lakewood)
If you seek a more immersive view of the fall foliage, Lookout Mountain is the perfect spot to get the full experience. Twenty minutes from Denver, the spot offers amazing views of the city as well as great mountain scenery. It is a perfect opportunity to take a break from urban life and escape into nature.
The historic (and supposedly haunted) Boettcher Mansion, as well as the gravesite of Buffalo Bill Cody, are also on the mountain and certainly worth a visit.
Denver City Park:
(East of downtown on 17th Avenue and York Street)
With a magnificent view of the downtown Denver skyline, Denver City Park is a scenic destination at any time of the year, but especially during fall. The bright cityscape combined with the leaves’ vibrant colors makes for a spectacular sight.
The park also contains the Denver Zoo and Denver Museum of Nature and Science, so you could easily make a day of the affair. Afterwards you can go into town and get some coffee or a warm dinner.
Confluence Park:
(2250 15th St.)
Located where Cherry Creek and the South Platte River meet, Confluence Park is a beautiful place to see the changing leaves alongside the two rivers. Because it’s near downtown, you can grab some food to go and have a picnic among the autumn foliage. It’s also very close to Elitch Gardens Theme Park, which is themed for Halloween during weekends in October. You could see the colorful scenery from the top of the observatory tower… or the Tower of Doom.
Bear Creek Lake Park:
(15600 W. Morrison Road, Lakewood)
A 546-acre park filled with undisturbed natural beauty, Bear Creek Lake Park is a slice of nature in the city. Split by Bear Creek, this open space is a great place to enjoy the colors of fall without going too far. About half an hour from DU, it’s also a good opportunity to get off campus and explore a different part of Denver. Since the upper quarter is occupied by a very old graveyard, its not a bad place to go around Halloween if you’re looking for a thrill.
Colorado is beautiful during all seasons of the year, but autumn offers an opportunity to see it in a distinct light. Do keep in mind, however, that Colorado’s autumn season is notoriously short, as the leaves tend to fall completely shortly after the first snow of the season. So go out and experience the foliage while it lasts—you’ll be glad you did.
