Before we moved to New Mexico, one of our favorite places to see the fall leaves was Missouri. Every year, we’d head to the Ozarks to soak up the vibrant reds and golds of the changing leaves. But now that we live in the Southwest, we’ve found even more reasons to love autumn.
The fall here isn’t just colorful—it’s magical. With golden aspens glowing against red-rock cliffs, cool mountain breezes, and endless blue skies, there’s nothing quite like it. Every year, we make an annual trip to Santa Fe and the Valles Caldera National Preserve to take in the views, breathe in the crisp autumn air, and maybe grab a bite at one of Santa Fe’s amazing local spots (green chile is always a must).
Our 7 Favorite Drives To See The Fall Leaves
So, if you’re ready to swap the usual fall foliage routes for something a little different, check out our list of the best scenic drives in the Southwest. These routes offer everything from alpine forests and desert valleys to historic towns and unforgettable sunsets. Trust us—after one of these trips, you’ll be hooked on Southwest autumns just like we are.
1. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway (New Mexico)
We love the Enchanted Circle because it’s a perfect mix of everything we adore—mountain views, quaint towns, and golden aspens lining the roads. The loop feels like it has something for everyone: Taos offers its artsy vibe, Eagle Nest Lake adds a sense of calm, and the winding mountain roads are pure autumn bliss. The best part? Even though it’s breathtaking, it’s not overrun with tourists, so you can enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
- Key stops: Taos, Eagle Nest Lake, Angel Fire, and Red River.
- Best time to visit: Late September to early October.
- Extra tip: After the drive, explore the art galleries in Taos or enjoy a relaxing soak at the hot springs near Ojo Caliente.
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2. Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway (New Mexico)
This drive is special to us because it kicks off our annual fall tradition. We love how the short, 16-mile route delivers some of the brightest fall colors in New Mexico, with aspens practically glowing in the sunlight. It’s also a peaceful escape—just winding roads, fresh mountain air, and endless views. Once we reach Ski Santa Fe, we’ll often park the car, take a walk, and enjoy the cool air and vibrant trees. It’s a quick but beautiful reminder of why we love fall in the Southwest.
- Key stops: Hyde Memorial State Park, Ski Santa Fe, and the Big Tesuque Trail.
- Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October.
- Extra tip: Pack a picnic and stop at an overlook to enjoy the views with lunch.
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3. Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive (Arizona)
Oak Creek Canyon holds a special place in our hearts because it feels like discovering an oasis of color in the middle of Arizona’s desert landscape. The maples, sycamores, and oaks create a vibrant palette that looks stunning against the red rocks. We love taking our time here—whether it’s hiking the West Fork Trail or just pulling off to enjoy the views. And we always make a point to grab a bite in Sedona afterward.
- Key stops: Slide Rock State Park, West Fork Trail, and Flagstaff.
- Best time to visit: Mid to late October.
- Extra tip: The West Fork Trail is a great hike for fall photos—don’t forget your camera!
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4. San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway (Colorado)
We love the San Juan Skyway because it combines everything we could want in a fall road trip—breathtaking mountain scenery, vibrant golden aspens, and charming historic towns. Driving the Million Dollar Highway between Silverton and Ouray feels like stepping into another world, with dramatic views and winding roads. And ending the day with a soak in Ouray’s hot springs makes the whole trip feel like a perfect fall getaway.
- Key stops: Telluride, Ouray, Silverton, and Durango.
- Best time to visit: Late September to early October.
- Extra tip: Drive the Million Dollar Highway carefully—those turns are worth it, but they’ll keep you on your toes!
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5. Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)
Scenic Byway 12 is one of those drives that really surprised us. We expected amazing desert views, but we didn’t expect the fall foliage to be this stunning! Seeing golden aspens pop against the red-rock cliffs is something we’ll never forget. This drive is also full of hidden gems—quiet trails, scenic overlooks, and small towns where you can stop for a meal or some coffee. We love making a whole day of it, ending with sunset at Bryce Canyon.
- Key stops: Boulder, Escalante, and Bryce Canyon National Park.
- Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October.
- Extra tip: Stop at Calf Creek Falls for a short hike to a waterfall surrounded by autumn colors.
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6. The Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
The Million Dollar Highway is both thrilling and breathtaking—it’s a drive we’ll never get tired of. The sheer drop-offs along the winding road keep us on edge (in the best way), but it’s the golden aspens carpeting the mountains that steal the show. We’ve found that fall is the best time to drive this stretch because the cooler air makes the views feel even sharper, and the sunlight hitting the aspens is pure magic. Ouray is one of our favorite places to stop after the drive, especially for a soak in the hot springs.
- Key stops: Ouray, Silverton, and the ghost town of Animas Forks.
- Best time to visit: Late September to early October.
- Extra tip: Plan extra time for photo stops—this drive is one you’ll want to capture!
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7. Aspen to Crested Butte Loop (Colorado)
This drive has become one of our all-time favorites because it offers the most incredible aspen groves we’ve ever seen. We’ll never forget the first time we drove Kebler Pass—the road was lined with towering aspens, their golden leaves fluttering in the breeze. It felt like driving through a golden tunnel. We also love stopping in Crested Butte, which feels like a postcard-perfect mountain town. This route has a little bit of everything—mountains, trees, and small-town charm.
- Key stops: Aspen, Kebler Pass, and Crested Butte.
- Best time to visit: Late September to early October.
- Extra tip: If you’re up for a challenge, hike from Aspen to Crested Butte for one of the most scenic trails in Colorado.
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Practical Tips for Fall Road Trips in the Southwest
The key to a great fall road trip in the Southwest is preparation. Peak foliage varies with elevation, so plan your trip carefully—higher areas like Colorado’s mountain passes tend to peak in late September, while lower elevations hit their stride in mid to late October. Since the weather can shift quickly, pack layers to stay comfortable as temperatures swing between chilly mornings and warm afternoons. Don’t forget snacks and plenty of water, especially for the more remote routes where services might be limited. For an eco-friendly journey, bring reusable water bottles and food containers to cut down on waste along the way. And lastly, make sure your phone or camera is charged—you’ll want to capture every colorful mile (we have experience with this)!
- Timing is everything: Peak fall foliage in the Southwest varies by elevation. Higher areas (like Colorado and northern New Mexico) hit their peak in late September to early October, while lower elevations see colors later in October.
- Pack layers: The weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Bring layers for chilly mornings and warmer afternoons.
- Bring snacks and water: Some of these routes are remote, so it’s best to have food and drinks on hand.
- Eco-friendly tip: Use reusable water bottles and containers to reduce waste during your trip.
In Conclusion
The Southwest might surprise you with its stunning fall colors and scenic drives, offering a mix of golden aspens, red canyons, and historic towns. Whether you’re exploring New Mexico’s art-filled towns or driving through the majestic San Juan Mountains, this region has something truly special to offer in the autumn months.
Have you taken a fall road trip through the Southwest? We’d love to hear about your favorite routes! Let us know in the comments below. And for more travel inspiration, check out our other road trip guides and dog-friendly travel tips to bring your furry friend along for the adventure!
