It’s September and the Aspens start turning about the second or third week in this month. Knowing where to go and when to go can be a bit tricky to say the very least. Let me guide you to a few of my favorite spots and give you some information that may help you plan your ride so you get the best viewing times this year. If you live in Colorado Springs just head out through Woodland Park on highway 24 and head for Cripple Creek on highway 67 where in places during the ride you can almost see forever.

One of our favorite summer rides is the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, the oldest scenic byway in Colorado. It is located in the mountainous north-central section of the state and features great opportunities for scenic riding. The Peak to Peak Established in 1918, will take you from the first gold mining town of Idaho Springs, through the historic old gambling towns of Black Hawk and Central City, then to Estes Park, where it ends (or begins)? Throughout this 55-mile journey of Colorado Front Range’s mountainous terrain, you will catch a glimpse of the Continental Divide as you dart in and out of the forest and cruise by open meadows. The ride is even more beautiful in the fall as the Aspens, Oaks and Birches paint the forest land with different variations of gold, orange and red; and the smell of fresh air…

Five hours to ride or 1 to 2 days if you look around and experience what the byway has to offer. This ride will take you through arguably the most beautiful sections of the Rocky Mountains as you follow a circular path through southwestern Colorado. You will pass through historic mining towns, national parks and forests and world- class ski resort areas. On this trip you will see the San Juan Mountains, home to many of Colorado’s elite group of 14,000 foot mountain peaks. Along the way you will see red-rock canyons, lush river valleys, hot springs and majestic mountain peaks. The segment from Ouray to Silverton is called the “Million Dollar Highway.” It derives its name from the low grade gold ore present in its road bed.