Maroon Bells
Standing in front of a glacial carved valley, surrounded by National Forest Land and several 14,000 foot mountains, the Maroon Bells are the most photographed peaks in all of North America. Due to the popularity of the Bells, it's highly recommended to visit during the week and use the bus service from Aspen, The road to the Bells for personal vehicles is often closed from overcrowding or a lack of parking.
Kebler Pass
Located about 15 minutes west of Crested Butte, Kebler Pass needs to be at the top of your bucket list when searching for Fall foliage in Colorado. The pass is regarded as one of the best places in the state to view vibrant yellow Aspen trees, with a summit around 10,000 feet. The road is accessible for all vehicle types and there are many pull over spots for camping, hiking, and biking.
Cottonwood Pass
Cottonwood Pass is a high mountain pass in south-central Colorado, about 40 minutes west of Buena Vista. With a summit of 12,126 feet, Cottonwood Pass is one of the highest mountain passes in Colorado and provides sweeping views of Aspen and Cottonwood trees against the Rockies. If you have a little time and shoes you're not afraid to get muddy, you can take the short 2.5 mile round-trip hike from the pass to Lost Lake.
Independence Pass
f you're going to drive to Aspen, Independence Pass is the way to go! The mountain pass rides over the Continental Divide between Leadville and Aspen with a summit just over 12,000 feet. With this drive you'll get stunning mountain valley views, and plenty of Aspen groves. If you have a little time, stop see the famous cliff jumping spot, The Devils Punchbowl! A word of caution, if you're prone to car sickness, Independence Pass is very long and winding with several narrow sections.
Kenosha Pass
If you know someone in Denver that wants to see Fall foliage but don't want to travel super far, Kenosha Pass is the spot to recommend. Located about 1 hour and 20 minutes southwest of Denver, or 25 minutes northeast of Fairplay (South Park), Kenosha Pass is a must for Aspen tree chasers. You will get amazing, panoramic views from the road, along with several spots to hike into the Aspen groves themselves.
Boreas Pass