Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland

About

The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland offer moderate fall hiking opportunities from September through November. Located in north central Colorado, this combined area spans approximately 1.5 million acres across five districts and is managed jointly from Fort Collins. The region provides diverse terrain, including rolling hills, dense forests of lodgepole pine and subalpine fir, and high-altitude wilderness areas bisected by the Continental Divide. Hikers can expect to spend around 2 hours on trails that are generally well-maintained, with conditions varying by location. The area is home to numerous natural landmarks, including 14,000-foot peaks such as Longs Peak, Grays Peak, and Torreys Peak, as well as alpine lakes like Brainard Lake. Parking is available at trailheads, and the area is pet friendly. While specific water sources are not detailed for every trail, the presence of alpine lakes and streams supports wildlife including deer and elk. The changing foliage of aspen and oak trees adds visual interest during the fall season, making it a suitable destination for hikers seeking moderate difficulty and accessible access from Denver.