10 Colorado Hikes That Are Perfect For September Weather (Before The Snow Hits)
September brings a magical window of hiking opportunity to Colorado’s mountains. The summer crowds thin out, temperatures cool to perfection, and aspen trees transform hillsides into shimmering gold tapestries.
These trails offer the sweet spot between summer heat and winter snow, when nature puts on its most spectacular show without the afternoon thunderstorms that plague July and August.
1. Ouzel Falls: Wild Basin’s Roaring Cascade
Tucked in Rocky Mountain National Park’s less-visited Wild Basin area, this trail offers a trio of waterfalls culminating with the magnificent 40-foot Ouzel Falls. The moderate path winds through pine forests, gradually transforming with autumn’s touch.
Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades serve as perfect rest stops along the way. The thundering water volume remains impressive even in late season, while the surrounding aspens reach peak color, creating a stunning gold-framed view of the falls.
2. Emerald Lake Trail: Triple Lake Treasure
The journey past Nymph and Dream Lakes before reaching Emerald Lake rewards hikers with three distinct alpine gems in one moderate trek.
Morning frost gives way to comfortable daytime temperatures as you ascend through pine forests and open rocky sections.
The namesake emerald waters reflect Hallett Peak’s imposing presence, creating postcard-worthy photos in every direction.
Remember to secure your timed-entry permit for Rocky Mountain National Park well in advance – this popular trail fills quickly even in shoulder season.
3. Crater Lake: Maroon Bells’ Less-Crowded Sibling
While everyone flocks to Maroon Lake for the iconic postcard shot, I’ve found continuing to Crater Lake rewards you with similar views, minus the photographer crowds.
The trail gradually climbs through one of Colorado’s most famous aspen groves, which literally glow in September sunlight.
The final approach reveals North and South Maroon Peaks towering dramatically above the alpine lake.
Last year, I arrived just after sunrise and had the entire lake to myself for a peaceful breakfast while watching sunlight paint the peaks.
4. Lost Lake: Family-Friendly Forest Escape
Perfect for families or those seeking a gentler adventure, Lost Lake delivers big mountain views without demanding technical expertise.
The trail weaves through one of the Front Range’s most impressive aspen corridors, which transforms into a golden tunnel by mid-September.
I brought my niece here last fall for her first Colorado hike, and she still talks about the “golden coin trees” that seemed to rain sunshine.
The lake itself sits in a protected bowl that often remains comfortable even when higher elevations turn blustery.
5. Herman Gulch: Alpine Meadows at High Elevation
Conveniently located just off I-70, Herman Gulch offers high-alpine scenery without requiring a long drive from Denver.
The trail climbs steadily through pine forests before opening into vast meadows that stretch toward the Continental Divide.
September brings cooler temperatures that make the uphill sections more manageable while revealing early snow dustings on distant peaks.
Herman Lake awaits at the trail’s end, reflecting jagged summits in its clear waters while marmots scurry to gather final provisions before winter.
6. Mohawk Lakes: Mining History Meets Mountain Splendor
History buffs and scenery seekers alike flock to this trail featuring abandoned mining cabins and equipment alongside stunning alpine lakes. The lower trail winds through mixed forests where early September brings subtle color changes.
The restored mining cabin near Lower Mohawk Lake provides fascinating glimpses into Colorado’s gold rush era.
I once spent an hour chatting with a volunteer historian who explained how miners survived winter at this elevation – making me grateful for my modern hiking gear as September’s cooling trend hinted at changes to come.
7. Kenosha Pass: Colorado’s Premier Aspen Showcase
No fall hiking list would be complete without Kenosha Pass, where the Colorado Trail cuts through one of the state’s largest aspen groves.
Unlike many mountain trails, this route offers relatively gentle terrain with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for almost any hiker.
The path alternates between golden tunnels and open meadows, offering expansive views of the South Park basin.
Photographers line the trail during peak color, typically the last week of September, when the entire mountainside appears to be on fire with autumn hues.
8. Hanging Lake: Turquoise Waters in a Red Rock Canyon
September transforms this popular destination from an overcrowded tourist spot to a more serene experience. The steep, rocky trail climbs through Glenwood Canyon, where cooler temperatures make the challenging ascent more manageable.
The payoff comes when you round the final bend to find a turquoise lake seemingly suspended on the canyon wall.
When I hiked here last September, the late afternoon light filtered through the surrounding trees, creating an almost otherworldly glow on the travertine formations.
Remember that permits are required year-round.
9. Elk Falls Overlook: Front Range Waterfall Wonder
Staunton State Park’s crown jewel offers a substantial day hike culminating at a viewpoint overlooking a 100-foot waterfall.
Multiple trail combinations lead to the falls, winding through diverse landscapes from meadows to pine forests dotted with aspen stands.
The waterfall’s flow may diminish by September, but the surrounding scenery compensates with early color changes.
The park’s lower elevation makes this an excellent option when mountain passes start getting frosty mornings, and the diverse terrain provides everything from shady forest sections to sunny rock outcroppings.
10. Ice Lakes Basin: Turquoise Alpine Perfection
Perhaps Colorado’s most photographed alpine lake doesn’t actually need Instagram filters – that color is real! The strenuous climb rewards hikers with surreal turquoise waters that seem impossibly vibrant against the surrounding rocky peaks.
September brings comfortable hiking temperatures to this high-elevation trail while typically remaining snow-free.
I’ve hiked this trail in both July and September, and while wildflowers peak in summer, the stable weather and smaller crowds of early fall make for a more enjoyable experience at this bucket-list destination.