Colorado Fall Road Trip | Vanlife on I 70, Leaf Peeping, and Mountain Camping
There is something about returning to Colorado that just feels right.
After leaving Bentonville, Arkansas, we packed up the van and hit the road for one of our favorite types of trips, a fall road trip through the Rockies. Driving west across Missouri and Kansas, the landscape slowly shifted until we found ourselves back where we feel most at home, surrounded by crisp mountain air, golden aspens, and the towering peaks of Colorado.
This week was everything we love about vanlife in the fall. Long drives, changing seasons, mountain towns, and some of the best scenery you will find anywhere in the country.
Driving the I 70 Corridor into the Rockies
One of the most iconic drives in the United States is the stretch of I 70 that cuts through the Colorado Rockies.
As we made our way into Denver and beyond, the views only got better. Wide open highways turned into winding mountain roads, and before long we were surrounded by peaks, forests, and bursts of yellow and gold from changing aspens.
If you are planning a Colorado road trip, this route alone is worth the drive.
Getting Settled in Denver
We started the week in Denver, easing back into city life before heading deeper into the mountains.
A quick stop at the Denver REI helped us get dialed in with gear, and we spent some time working remotely from Washington Park. It was one of those perfect fall days with cool air, blue skies, and just enough warmth from the sun.
Denver is a great place to reset during a road trip. You have access to everything you need while still being close to the mountains.
Trail Cleanup at Brainard Lake
One of the most meaningful parts of the week was spending time at Brainard Lake.
We joined a trail cleanup effort and got to experience this area during one of the most beautiful times of year. The aspens were starting to turn, and we even caught the first snow of the season dusting the peaks in the distance.
It was a reminder that these places do not stay this beautiful on their own. Taking time to give back, even in small ways, is always worth it.
Lake Dillon and Breckenridge in Peak Fall
From Denver, we headed up into the high country toward Lake Dillon and Breckenridge.
This is one of the best areas in Colorado for fall colors, and it did not disappoint. Golden aspens lined the mountainsides, reflecting off the lake and creating some of the best views of the entire trip.
We spent time trail running around Lake Dillon, soaking in the scenery, and capturing drone footage of the mountains glowing in peak fall color.
Camping at Prospector Campground
We spent a few nights at Prospector Campground, which ended up being one of our favorite spots of the trip.
Quiet surroundings
Easy access to trails and mountain towns
Clear night skies filled with stars
Evenings were simple. Campfires, cooler temperatures, and the kind of stillness you only get in the mountains.
This is exactly the kind of setup that makes vanlife feel worth it.
Hiking Lily Pad Lakes Trail
One of the highlights of our time in the area was hiking the Lily Pad Lakes Trail.
We met up with our friend Bridget and her dog Moose, and spent the afternoon exploring one of the more relaxed and scenic trails near Silverthorne.
The trail winds through forests, opens up to peaceful lakes, and offers great views without being overly difficult. It is a perfect option if you want something lower key but still rewarding.
Breckenridge Food Stop at Ollie’s Pub and Grub
After a full day outside, we made our way into Breckenridge for a well earned meal at Ollie’s Pub and Grub.
Burgers and beers after a long day in the mountains just hit different. It is the kind of place you want to end up after hiking or riding, relaxed, casual, and exactly what you need.
Best Fall Drives in Colorado
If you are coming to Colorado in the fall, driving is just as important as hiking or exploring.
We made time for two of the best leaf peeping drives in the state.
Kenosha Pass
One of the most popular spots for fall colors, and for good reason. Wide open views, rolling hills, and endless aspen groves.
Guanella Pass
A little more rugged and just as beautiful. This drive offers incredible mountain views and some of the best vantage points for seeing fall color from above.
Ending the Week at Denver Oktoberfest
We wrapped up the week back in Denver just in time for Oktoberfest. It was the perfect way to close out the trip. Good food, great energy, and a completely different pace from the mountains. And of course, Coco showed up in a mini dirndl and completely stole the show.
Why Colorado in the Fall Is Hard to Beat
There is a reason people plan entire trips around Colorado in the fall.
Cooler temperatures
Bright, vibrant colors
Fewer crowds than peak summer
Endless opportunities for hiking, driving, and camping
For vanlife, it is one of the best seasons you can experience. Comfortable weather, incredible scenery, and the ability to move freely between cities and mountains.
Final Thoughts
This week reminded us why we always come back to Colorado.
It is not just the views, although they are hard to beat. It is the combination of adventure, accessibility, and the feeling you get when you are surrounded by mountains. From long drives on I 70 to quiet nights at camp, this trip had everything we look for when we hit the road.
If you are thinking about planning a fall road trip, Colorado should be at the top of your list.
Watch the Full Episode
Check out the full Detour Diaries episode to follow along with the entire journey, from the drive into the Rockies to fall colors, camping, and life on the road.
