MATCHED TO YOUFirst timerFall aspensBig passesAlpine lakesStargazing
DAY1
Denver to Kenosha Pass
~60 MI~1 HR 20 MINPAVED, US 285
Pick up Aspen at 10 AM and head southwest on US 285 through Bailey and Grant. Kenosha Pass sits right at the summit around 10,000 ft and is one of the best aspen spots near Denver. Set up early and walk the Colorado Trail east into the gold.
Colorado Trail, heading eastEasy aspen walk from the pass
South Park overlookPullout on the south side of the pass
Kenosha Pass Campground25 sites at 10,000 ft, vault toilets, fire ringsRESERVE AHEAD
Peak color is late September to early October and the trailhead gets packed on weekends. Arrive before noon.
DAY2
Boreas Pass to Breckenridge
~35 MI~1 HR 45 MINSMOOTH GRAVEL
Drop into South Park, turn at Como and climb Boreas Pass Road, an old railroad grade that tops out at 11,481 ft. It's gentle, wide and slow in the best way. Take your time, eat lunch at the summit and roll down into Breckenridge for dinner in town.
Boreas Pass summitHistoric section house and big views
BreckenridgeGroceries, fuel and a real dinner
Dispersed site off Boreas Pass RoadDesignated free sites, first come, no waterFIRST COME
Boreas Pass Road closes for winter, usually in November. We'll flag it if your dates get close.
DAY3
Georgetown and Guanella Pass
~50 MI~1 HR 15 MINPAVED BYWAY
Take I-70 east to Georgetown, then climb the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. The summit at 11,669 ft looks straight at Mount Bierstadt and Mount Evans, and the lakes near the top are perfect for an afternoon stroll before a big night of stars.
Summit lakesShort flat walk from the summit lot
StargazingClear skies and almost no light pollution
Guanella Pass CampgroundForest Service campground below the summitRESERVE AHEAD
Night temps at this elevation can drop below freezing in fall. The diesel heater kit is worth it.
DAY4
Over the top and home
~70 MI~1 HR 45 MINPAVED
Finish the byway south to Grant, then hop back on US 285 to Denver. You'll have time for a slow coffee at camp and still make the 4 PM return without rushing.
Top off fuelReturn at the same level, 87 octane or higher