Best Places to Photograph Fall Colors in Colorado

 

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Top Colorado Fall Photography Locations

Colorado in autumn is a dream for photographers, with golden aspens, rugged mountains, and crisp skies creating picture-perfect scenes. If you’re planning a fall photography adventure, these top locations will provide endless inspiration. Each destination offers unique landscapes and opportunities to capture the vibrant season at its peak.

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1. Maroon Bells — Aspen, Colorado

Perhaps the most photographed peaks in North America, the Maroon Bells shine brightest in the fall. With aspen groves glowing gold around Maroon Lake, the mirrored reflection creates a stunning shot at sunrise. View Maroon Bells Photography by Dan Sproul

2. Kebler Pass — Gunnison National Forest

Known for one of the largest aspen groves in the world, Kebler Pass is a must-see in autumn. The rolling mountains blanketed in shades of yellow, orange, and red create a breathtaking panorama. Explore Kebler Pass Prints

3. Dallas Divide — Near Ridgway

Framed by the Sneffels Range, Dallas Divide provides a sweeping view of vibrant aspen trees set against jagged peaks. The sunrise here is particularly magical as the mountains catch the first light. Shop Dallas Divide Photography

4. Telluride & Last Dollar Road

Telluride’s charm multiplies in fall, with aspens painting the valley in gold. A drive along Last Dollar Road offers some of the most iconic mountain-and-aspen combinations in Colorado. See Telluride Photography

5. Independence Pass — Near Aspen

One of the highest paved passes in North America, Independence Pass offers dramatic views of golden aspens, alpine meadows, and sweeping valleys. Every curve of the road provides a new photo opportunity. Discover Independence Pass Prints

6. Chimney Rock — Near Ridgway

In the San Juan Mountains, Chimney Rock stands tall against the backdrop of golden aspens. The contrast of rugged stone and brilliant foliage makes this a favorite among landscape photographers. View Chimney Rock in Fall Photography

7. Rocky Mountain National Park — Estes Park

From Bear Lake Road to Moraine Park, the park offers diverse fall landscapes. Visitors can also witness the elk rut, adding a dynamic wildlife photography element to the autumn scenery. Shop Rocky Mountain Prints

8. Million Dollar Highway — Silverton to Ouray

The Million Dollar Highway is a winding, scenic drive with jaw-dropping views at every turn. In fall, the mountainsides explode with color, creating endless opportunities for landscape photography. Explore Million Dollar Highway Photography

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Colorado’s fall landscapes are a paradise for photographers. Whether you’re hiking to a quiet alpine lake, driving a scenic byway, or exploring mountain towns, the golden aspens and crisp mountain air create unforgettable images. Capture the season’s beauty and bring it home with a fine art print from Dan Sproul’s Colorado Collection.

Creating a Grand Marais Lighthouse Collage – A Mixed Media Tribute to Minnesota’s North Shore

The Grand Marais Lighthouse is one of Minnesota’s most beloved landmarks, standing proudly at Artist Point on the rugged North Shore of Lake Superior. Its white tower and red roof have been guiding mariners for generations, while also inspiring photographers, painters, and travelers alike. I wanted to create a piece that would honor this iconic location, not just as a photograph, but as a unique work of art that blends history, texture, and color. 

 Using my original photograph of the Grand Marais Lighthouse, I began the transformation process in Photoshop. My goal was to craft a mixed media collage that layered the clean, architectural lines of the lighthouse against a vibrant backdrop of vintage newspaper clippings. The text “Artist Point Light” was arranged in an artistic layout to complement the scene, giving the piece a sense of place and personality. By blending photographic realism with colorful collage textures, I was able to create an image that feels both nostalgic and modern—something that resonates with people who love the North Shore’s charm and character. 

 For those who have walked the pier at Grand Marais, listened to the waves crash along the shoreline, or explored the rocky beauty of Artist Point, this piece is meant to capture that experience in visual form. It’s the kind of art that speaks to Minnesota locals, lighthouse enthusiasts, and anyone who treasures the wild beauty of Lake Superior. You can view or purchase the finished Grand Marais Lighthouse Collage here.