travel Archives - Karee Russell

Colorado in October: Fall Colors, Scenic Drives & Golden Adventures

September 27, 2025Karee Russell

Discover the best scenic drives, fall colors, and outdoor adventures in Colorado this October. Explore golden aspens, wildlife, and mountain escapes.

Why October is Magical in Colorado

October in Colorado is a season of transformation. High peaks shimmer with the first dustings of snow while mountain valleys explode in hues of gold, orange, and crimson. The air turns crisp, the crowds of summer thin, and travelers find themselves immersed in one of the most breathtaking displays of fall foliage in the U.S.

Whether you’re chasing aspen groves on a scenic byway, hiking in a national park, or soaking in a hot spring under a canopy of glowing leaves, October is the sweet spot between summer adventure and winter wonder. Here’s how to make the most of your October Colorado trip.

🍁 The Best Scenic Drives for Colorado Fall Colors

Million Dollar Highway (Ouray–Silverton)

Perhaps the most iconic fall drive in Colorado, the Million Dollar Highway winds through the San Juan Mountains with hairpin turns, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping alpine views. In October, fiery aspens light up the steep slopes, creating one of the most spectacular road trips in the country. Pro tip: stop in Ouray for a soak in the hot springs after your drive.

Last Dollar Road (Telluride–Ridgway)

If you love photography, this dirt road is a must. The Last Dollar Road offers jaw-dropping views of the Sneffels Range framed by aspen groves. It’s especially beautiful in early to mid-October, when the golden leaves contrast with snow-dusted peaks.

West Elk Loop Scenic Byway

This 205-mile route connects small mountain towns like Crested Butte, Paonia, and Gunnison. Along the way, you’ll pass rivers, ranches, orchards, and valleys lit with fall color. Stop in Paonia for wine tasting at local vineyards.

Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Near Denver)

For those short on time, the Peak to Peak is an easy day trip from Denver or Boulder. Stretching from Estes Park to Central City, this drive is lined with shimmering aspens, historic mining towns, and trailheads perfect for short hikes.

🥾 Outdoor Adventures in October

Hiking Among the Aspens

Fall hiking in Colorado is unforgettable. Trails near Crested Butte, Aspen, and Rocky Mountain National Park offer endless photo ops. Favorites include:

Maroon Bells Scenic Loop (Aspen) – One of the most photographed spots in the world.
Kebler Pass (Crested Butte) – Famous for one of the largest aspen groves in North America.
Bear Lake Trail (Rocky Mountain National Park) – Easy but stunning, especially with reflections of fall foliage.

Wildlife Watching: Elk Rut Season

October marks elk rutting season in Colorado. Head to Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park to hear the haunting bugle of bull elk as they compete for mates. It’s one of the most unique wildlife spectacles in the U.S.

Relaxing in Hot Springs

Cooler weather makes October the perfect time to soak in Colorado’s hot springs. Try:

Strawberry Park Hot Springs (Steamboat Springs) – Rustic and scenic.
Glenwood Hot Springs – Family-friendly and central to mountain adventures.
Ouray Hot Springs – A great stop after the Million Dollar Highway.

Mountain Biking

Many trails remain open through October, offering colorful rides through aspen tunnels. Crested Butte and Durango are particularly popular for fall biking.

🌟 Pro Tips for October Travelers

Timing Matters: High elevations change first (late September–early October). By mid to late October, foothills and Front Range cities like Denver, Golden, and Boulder glow with color.
Dress in Layers: Mornings and evenings can be frosty, while afternoons warm up. Always pack a light jacket.
Check Road Conditions: Mountain passes may get early snow; monitor CDOT for closures.
Beat the Crowds: Visit popular spots midweek for fewer tourists and better photo opportunities.

🍂 Must-Visit Towns in October

Crested Butte: Known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” but equally stunning in fall.
Aspen: True to its name, Aspen’s surrounding groves are breathtaking in October.
Durango: A perfect base for both fall colors and historic attractions.
Estes Park: Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and home to the Elk Fest.

A Golden Season You Can’t Miss

October in Colorado is fleeting but unforgettable. From golden highways lined with aspens to wildlife encounters and cozy hot spring escapes, every moment feels like a postcard. Plan wisely, pack layers, and take your time — fall here passes quickly, but its beauty will stay with you long after the leaves have fallen.

Memories Per Mile: A Comeback & A New Chapter

August 10, 2025Karee RussellLeave a comment

Hey, everyone! It’s been a while since my last post, and I wanted to take a moment to reconnect, share what’s been going on, and give you a glimpse into the exciting new content coming your way.

Like so many of you, life has been hectic, unpredictable, and full of change. Over the past few months, our pace of travel has slowed down, and while that’s been an adjustment, it has also given me time to reflect on what’s next for Memories Per Mile.

Life Lately: A Shift in Pace

For years, travel has been at the heart of this blog—sharing stories from the road, travel tips, and unforgettable experiences. But lately, our suitcases have stayed put more than usual. Whether due to personal commitments, shifting priorities, or simply the need to pause and recharge, we’ve found ourselves embracing a slower, more grounded lifestyle.

At first, I struggled with what this meant for Memories Per Mile. Would I still have stories to tell without a constant stream of new destinations? The answer is a resounding yes!

Because while the miles may have slowed, the memories and experiences haven’t stopped.

A Fresh Approach to Content

This shift has given me the opportunity to explore new directions for the blog. While travel will always be a core part of Memories Per Mile, I want to expand into deeper storytelling, reflection, and lifestyle content that captures the essence of adventure—whether that’s through past journeys, travel-inspired experiences at home, or finding new ways to fuel our wanderlust when we can’t be on the road.

What’s Coming Next?

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the content I’m working on:
✔ Throwback Travel Stories – Revisiting some of our most memorable trips with fresh reflections and tips.
✔ How to Bring Travel Home – Ways to stay inspired by travel, even when you’re not on the move.
✔ Life Between the Trips – How we’re embracing slower living while still staying adventurous.
✔ Travel Planning & Dreaming – Looking ahead to future adventures and helping you do the same!

This new chapter of Memories Per Mile is about adaptation, inspiration, and storytelling—whether from the road or from home.

Let’s Reconnect!

I’ve missed this community, and I’d love to hear from you! How has your life changed lately? Are you traveling less, shifting priorities, or finding new ways to stay inspired?

Drop a comment below or connect with me on social media—I can’t wait to catch up and embark on this next journey together.

Stay tuned, stay inspired, and remember—every mile, near or far, holds a memory worth sharing.

See you in the next post! 💙

Memories Per Mile: A Journey of Family Adventures and Cultural Exploration

September 16, 2023September 16, 2023Karee RussellLeave a comment

Introduction

In the age of wanderlust and digital storytelling, “Memories Per Mile” was born from a passion for travel and a desire to share the joys of our family adventures. We embark on journeys not just to see new places but to make memories, learn about the world, and grow as individuals and as a family.

Section 1: Traveling the World with Loved Ones

Our journey began with a shared love for exploration. My husband and I decided to take our kids along, believing that travel would be an invaluable part of their upbringing. The experience of traveling with our children has been nothing short of transformative. From road trips across our home country to international flights to distant lands, we’ve embraced the world as our classroom.

The beauty of family adventures lies in the memories we create together. It’s in the laughter shared on long car rides, the excitement of discovering new cultures, and the shared wonder of witnessing breathtaking landscapes. These experiences are the heartbeats of our family, and they’ve become the foundation of “Memories Per Mile.”

Section 2: Cruising through Europe’s Rich Cultural Tapestry

One of the highlights of our travels has been cruising through Europe. There’s something enchanting about waking up in a new city or country every day, ready to immerse ourselves in the local culture and history. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins in Rome, strolling through charming villages in the French countryside, or admiring the artistry of Barcelona, each European port has offered a tapestry of experiences.

Cruising isn’t just about luxurious amenities and stunning ocean views; it’s about the anticipation of learning. It’s about stepping onto foreign shores with open hearts and minds, ready to soak in the history, art, and traditions of the places we visit.

Section 3: Personal Growth and Travel

Travel isn’t just about visiting places; it’s about personal growth. It’s about learning history and culture firsthand and allowing it to shape our perspectives. As we’ve journeyed across the globe, we’ve absorbed the lessons of the past and woven them into the fabric of our lives.

One of the most remarkable aspects of travel is how it forces us to step out of our comfort zones. It challenges our preconceived notions and opens our eyes to the diversity and richness of the world. The knowledge we gain doesn’t remain confined to our travel diaries; it becomes a part of our daily lives, influencing the choices we make and the way we view the world.

Section 4: Inspiring Your Readers

Our hope for “Memories Per Mile” is to inspire you, our readers, to embark on your journeys of discovery and adventure. We want to share the lessons we’ve learned about financial freedom, investment, and traveling on a budget. We believe that exploring the world need not be a distant dream but an achievable goal for everyone.

We invite you to join us on our upcoming adventures. In the pipeline are visits to Estes Park, CO, the wonders of South America & Antarctica, the breathtaking sights of an Alaska cruise, and the magic of Australia and New Zealand. These journeys promise not only spectacular landscapes but also profound cultural experiences.

Conclusion

“Memories Per Mile” is more than a travel blog; it’s a celebration of the human spirit’s innate curiosity and the boundless wonders of the world. We invite you to join us in our quest for knowledge, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

As you explore the pages of “Memories Per Mile,” we hope you’ll find inspiration to set out on your own adventures, embrace financial freedom, and invest in experiences that enrich your life. Together, let’s travel to learn, grow, and create memories that last a lifetime. Welcome to our journey—welcome to “Memories Per Mile.”