Start in the town of Ridgway, south of Montrose. Take Route 62 west over the Dallas Divide. You will pass through Sneffels Range, which features clear views of aspen trees. When you reach Placerville, head to Lizard Head Pass on Route 165 southeast, in the direction of Telluride. This stretch of road is surrounded by aspens.
Drive from Grand Junction to the top of Grand Mesa through the town of Cedar Ridge via I-70. Continue through Pallisade and along the Colorado River. Head east at Route 65, then south to Island Lake. This drive includes canyon views, and will bring you to the top of Grand Mesa.
Begin in the town of Yampa and take the Ripple Creek Pass for ample views of the White River Valley and Flat Tops Wilderness Area. Take Forest Road 205 for 8 miles to Trapper Lake, and continue on to Meeker. Drive northeast onto Highway 13, then right onto County Road 15, which will take you 20 miles through Yellow Jacket Pass.
Depart from Black Hawk, and head north on Route 119 to Nederland. Take Route 72 to Raymond, and continue on Route 7, past Longs Peak to Estes Park.
Follow Kebler Pass Road west from Paonia Reservoir, near Somerset and Crested Butte. Take the mountain road for about 30 miles to view McClure Pass, Beckwith Mountains and the West Elk Mountains. Kebler Pass Road is a smooth, graded, two-lane dirt road that still allows you to drive 30 mph to 40 mph. This is one of the less-traveled roads with some of the best views.
Take a shuttle bus from the town of Aspen to Maroon Bells during September weekends. This is the only way to view the trees at Maroon Bells during this month on the weekend. Alternatively, you can drive around Maroon Lake during the week. Or, reserve a campsite on Maroon Bell Road.
Ride one of the many Colorado railroads to view aspens. The trains are available around the state and in a few neighboring states, such as New Mexico. Some of the railroads also feature open-air cars. The railroad in Leadville takes passengers on a two and half hour train through the San Isabel National Forest, while the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad takes you from the New Mexico town of Chama to Antonito and Osier, Colo., through the Rocky Mountains. This is a way to enjoy the foliage without the stress of driving. Staff is available on the train to answer questions about the views.
