Top Spots for Fall Colors in the Cache NHA

Tour Description

The vast Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area is the perfect spot to witness the changing of the seasons in Northern Colorado. This 45-mile river segment, starting from the Poudre River Canyon near Bellvue and extending to the South Platte River confluence in Greeley, provides numerous opportunities for leaf-peeping.

Continue reading to uncover the prime locations for fall colors in the Cache NHA and beyond, as well as tips for discovering the best fall colors in Northern Colorado.

Photo by Rich Ernst, 2023 Capture the Cache Participant

1. Horsetooth Reservoir

The 6.5-mile-long reservoir combines water, unprecedented sunsets, and beautiful fall foliage for the ideal photo backdrop.

Aerial view of Horsetooth Reservoir.

2. Lee Martinez Community Park

The Cache la Poudre River runs straight through the almost 90-acre park, providing spots to walk down to the banks of the river where the changing trees are plentiful. On the south end of the park, a bridge crosses the river providing an idealistic backdrop.

3. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area

This reservoir, surrounded by trees, is a wonderful location for capturing photos during the changing colors. Also, there are three short trails – Sandpiper Trail, Heron Loop, and Cattail Flats Trail – where you can stretch your legs and soak in the fall vibes.

4. The Oval at Colorado State University Campus

Colorado State University’s iconic Oval is ringed with towering American Elm trees with expansive, luscious green grass. The contrast of colors makes this an ideal spot for capturing the autumn colors.

The Oval at Colorado State University.

5. Running Deer Natural Area

A great spot for wildlife viewing in the fall, specifically mule and whitetail deer as they bed down or bound across the walking paths. The groves of Aspens provide plentiful food, water and shelter for all types of wildlife in this area.

Find more information about fall activities at Fall Activities in Fort Collins, CO (visitftcollins.com).

1. Windsor Lake

The mountains in the background offer a serene backdrop as you walk around the Windsor Lake Trail. The trail follows the perimeter of the lake for 2.25 miles.

2. Eastman Park

Experience the autumn colors at this outdoor area featuring a dedicated float launch and take out area, scenic river plaza that provides river access for general water enjoyment, and picturesque views of the Cache la Poudre River and Longs Peak.

Fall colors at Eastman Park.

3. Windsor History Museum

Providing a chance to experience the essence of autumn from the past, the museum is located near Windsor Lake and showcases historic structures from Windsor constructed between 1882 and the 1920s.

4. Riverbend Natural Area

There are 10 acres of open lands to explore and big trees along the banks of the water detention area, used to manage stormwater runoff.

Find more information about fall activities in Windsor at Activity Guide | Windsor Parks, CO (recreationliveshere.com).

1. Signature Bluffs Natural Area

The iconic red barn is visible from the parking lot and the lush greenery will be primed for the changing colors. Access to the Poudre River Trail is available from the parking lot so bring your bike and soak up the colors.

Photo by Nicholas Fischer, 2024 Capture the Cache Participant

2. Glenmere Park

Only a block away from the University of Northern Colorado, this park is easily accessible with paved walking trails, dense tree coverage and a beautiful island in the middle of Glenmere Park Pond.

3. University of Northern Colorado Campus

UNC created a tree trail tool that displays an interactive map of trees and their locations on campus. Warm, golden-colored Honey Locusts and rust-colored Cottonwood trees punctuate the college campus.

4. Island Grove Regional Park

Island Grove got its name from the original stand of Cottonwood trees that grew along the Cache la Poudre River as far back as the late 1800s. Cottonwoods and Pear trees will provide vibrant yellow and red leaves.

Playground at Island Grove Regional Park.

5. Poudre Ponds

Fish, paddleboard, or kayak as you watch the golden trees reflect on the water. Slow it down by walking the 1.7-mile paved loop around the pond. Other small, non-motorized boats are permitted. Trout will be stocked in the ponds in October. Access to the Poudre River Trail is available from the parking lot.

The Cache la Poudre – North Park Scenic Byway features incredible scenery in the Poudre Canyon and along the Cache la Poudre River, as well as large forests and towering mountain peaks that are home to incredible wildlife. Approximately 50 miles up the canyon, the road rolls over 10,000-foot Cameron Pass in the vast North Park Valley. Highway 14 travels through the Poudre Canyon between Fort Collins and the town of Walden and is a designated Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway.

Photo by Justin Deutsch, 2023 Capture the Cache Participant

Rocky Mountain National Park soars to more than 13,000 feet to form the Continental Divide. Starting in late August, aspens in the highest reaches of the park begin turning a golden-yellow hue. Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuously paved highway in the U.S., is usually open from Memorial Day until early October. Reservations are required to visit the park through October 14, learn more here.