Kenosha Pass Fall Colors in Colorado 2025

The best hiking weather is when crisp mornings give way to the gentle warmth of the waning sun. As leaves change color, nature beckons you to explore the autumn scenery. If you find yourself in Colorado during the fall, don't miss the chance to walk through Kenosha Pass, renowned for its spectacular fall foliage. The peak time for vibrant fall colors in Kenosha Pass is from late September to early October.

Kenosha Pass Highlights

Situated on Highway 285 between Grant and Jefferson, Kenosha Pass boasts miles of aspens, drawing tourists from near and far. These white-barked trees are among the first to signal the approaching winter, with their green leaves transforming into a stunning display of gold and yellow in the fall. The pass provides access to a highly popular section of The Colorado Trail in Pike National Forest. It also offers scenic views of South Park from a small pullout area on the south side.

Beyond the Fall Foliage

Beyond attracting enthusiasts seeking stunning autumn views for relaxation, the pass is also popular among backpackers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders on the Colorado Trail, who mix pleasure with utility. It's a fantastic spot close to Denver, where anyone can capture beautiful shots of the changing colors in the mountains.

Camping

For those interested in camping, there are two campgrounds available. The Kenosha Pass Campground offers 25 campsites at an elevation of 10,000 feet (3048 m), with parking spurs ranging from 16 to 30 feet long. The camping season runs from May to early September, with facilities including water, tables, vault toilets, and fire rings. During the extended season in the fall, services such as water, trash, or a host may not be available. Operational hours are as follows: check-in at 2 pm and check-out at noon. The fee is $25 per site per night, covering two vehicles or one RV. Fees can be paid by cash, check, or money order.

The Kenosha East Campground is located across Highway 285 from the Kenosha Pass Campground. It features twelve campsites designed with universal accessibility, including high grills, picnic tables, and benches. The host for both campgrounds is stationed at Kenosha Pass Campground.

Kenosha Pass North Hiking Trail

Those who are looking for a specific hike should pay attention to the Kenosha Pass North. It's almost a 7-mile (11-km) hike with breathtaking views of mountains and valleys. Moderate and extremely popular, it features an elevation of 1086 feet (331 m) and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

Accessibility

Kenosha Pass is among the most easily accessible mountain passes. US Highway 285, a well-maintained and paved road with gentle curves and grades, ensures a smooth journey. Although the western side of the pass presents a bit more of a challenge, it remains manageable for most passenger vehicles.