Vail Fall Colors 2026: Best Dates, Hikes and Scenic Drives

Last Updated August 28, 2026

Fall colors are expected to arrive early in Vail this year.

Colorado’s hot, dry conditions have stressed many of the state’s aspens, and CBS Colorado’s August 25 forecast puts Vail, Aspen, Summit County and the central mountains in a September 16-28 viewing window. Travelers who usually plan their Colorado fall trips for the same week each September are being advised to go about a week earlier in 2026.

For Vail, September 20-27 is our recommendation. You’ll be well inside this year’s forecast window, and Vail Mountain will still be running its gondolas Friday through Sunday through September 27.

Aspens at higher elevations generally turn first, so if Vail is still looking green, head higher. If the high country has already peaked, stay lower in the valley.

Here are our favorite ways to see the colors.

Hike Berry Picker and Ride the Gondola

If you want to get right into the aspens, start with Berry Picker Trail on Vail Mountain.

The trail climbs from Lionshead through wooded sections and aspen groves before opening to views across the valley and toward the Gore Range. It’s a substantial uphill hike, but you don’t have to walk both directions.

During Vail Mountain’s fall operating days, you can pair the hike with the Eagle Bahn Gondola and ride one way.

If hiking isn’t part of the plan, simply take the gondola up. From Eagle’s Nest, you’ll get a much better view of the changing mountainside than you can from the valley floor.

Walk Along Gore Creek

For something easier, follow the Gore Valley Trail.

The trail runs through Vail alongside Gore Creek, but there’s no need to tackle the full route. Pick it up around Vail Village or Lionshead and head east.

You’ll pass aspens, stretches of creek and quieter scenery as you move away from the center of town. The area around the Vail Golf Club and toward East Vail is especially nice in fall.

Much of the route is paved, so it also works well for families and bikes.

See the Aspens on Horseback

Vail Stables, just outside Vail Village, offers guided rides through mountain forest and aspen groves through September 30.

That makes the final weeks of its season a particularly good fit for 2026, since they overlap directly with Vail’s expected fall-color window. There are shorter rides for beginners and families as well as longer trips farther into the mountains. It’s one of the more memorable ways to see the leaves.

Drive from Minturn to Leadville

Take US-24 through Minturn toward Leadville, following part of the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway. The road climbs through mountain valleys and amazing aspens as you gain elevation.

Stop at Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument along the way, then continue to Leadville for lunch or a walk around town.

Because Leadville is at a higher elevation than Vail, it’s also a great option if the leaves around town haven’t fully turned yet.

Spend Sunday at the Vail Farmers’ Market

The 2026 market runs every Sunday through October 4, from 9:30am to 3pm with food, produce, art and Colorado-made goods. It’s a great way to spend the morning before heading out to see the changing leaves.

Stay in the Vail Valley

Pop Art Villa at the Westin Riverfront Resort and Spa makes a convenient base for a fall trip to the Vail Valley.

Vail is about 10 miles away, Beaver Creek is right across the river, and you’re well positioned for any of the scenic drives. After a day of leaf peeping, relax in one of the resort’s pools or hot tubs or enjoy any other of the award-winning amenities.

Pop Art Villa’s personal concierge service is complimentary with any stay. Feel free to reach out for help in planning your vacation or answering any questions you may have. We’d love to welcome you to any one of our unique residences.