Things to Do in Fort Collins in the Fall

Experience Fort Collins at its autumn best with a fall getaway. Crisp mountain air, golden cottonwoods, lively college-town buzz, and shoulder-season perks make the fall season the perfect time to visit Fort Collins. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway from a nearby Colorado town, or you're flying in to meet friends or family, the fall is a lovely time to plan a Fort Collins stay. Here’s your guide for some fun things to do in Fort Collins in Fall!

Top Reasons to Visit Fort Collins in Fall

Fall (October/November) is considered the "shoulder season" in Fort Collins, meaning you’ll typically find more affordable accommodation rates compared to peak summer, as well as last-minute deals or openings. Although Fort Collins is a college town and relatively lively, it’s less crowded in fall, so you’ll find shorter waits at restaurants, peaceful trails, and quieter streets. Fall is the sweet spot where you can enjoy Colorado's abundant sunshine, mild temps perfect for outdoor activities, along with cozy seasonal vibes and a laid-back atmosphere. Fort Collins locals love this time of year!

What Fall Feels Like in Fort Collins 

October and November in Fort Collins brings daytime highs between 50-70°F and cooler evenings dipping into the 30s or 40s. Fall days tend to be sunny, with a small chance of rain, making fall a great time of year for outdoor activities. It’s also a very colorful time of year in Fort Collins, with peak fall foliage typically happening from late-September through mid-October.

Things to Do in the Fall in Fort Collins

Fall Foliage and Scenic Drives

Fort Collins is well-known for its autumn colors, especially in local nature areas and the nearby foothills of the Rockies. In town, the best spots for foliage walks are Old Town, City Park, and McMurry Natural Area. For a scenic drive, head out to Lory State Park or along the Cache la Poudre North Park Scenic Byway, where golden aspens and brilliant maples abound. The trails around Horsetooth Reservoir and Red Feather Lakes also offer incredible views against the bright blue autumn skies. And for a longer adventure, Rocky Mountain National Park is less than an hour away, where you'll find miles of trails and roads perfect for soaking up the fall colors.

Outdoor Activities

Gorgeous fall weather makes the fall season excellent for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, paddleboarding and fishing at local reservoirs. Less crowded trails and easy parking at trailheads in October make it a breeze to enjoy the outdoor activities in Fort Collins. 

Seasonal Festivals and Events

October and November are kfull of events that celebrate fall in Fort Collins. The FoCo Fall Fest in mid-October fills Old Town Square with local vendors, live music, kids’ activities and fall-themed fun. Harvest festival vibes can be found at the Pumpkins on Parade Halloween Celebration, and a number of local pumpkin patches offer corn mazes and hay rides to bring the seasonal cheer. Closer to Halloween, Fort Collins hosts costume-friendly events, ghost tours and pop-ups downtown to celebrate the spooky season. Plus, the school year is underway at CSU, so you can always catch a Rams football game.

Breweries and Cideries

Fort Collins’ reputation as Colorado’s Craft Beer Capital is evident in the fall, with festivals and special autumn releases celebrating the season. Every taproom has their own offering of seasonal drinks featuring the flavors of fall, from pumpkin spice ales to spice-infused hard ciders. Festive events, guided tours, rotating seasonal taps and beautiful patio weather make October and November a great time to explore Fort Collins' breweries and cideries.

Book a Fall Fort Collins Vacation Rental

Fall is a cozy season, and there’s no better way to enjoy this time of year in Fort Collins than with a cozy stay at a vacation rental. The space, the privacy, and the full kitchens will make you feel at home immediately, paired with amenities that allow you to unwind on your own terms. A vacation rental allows you to enjoy cool fall evenings by sipping local brews by the fire, taking a dip in the hot tub under a crisp starry sky, or cooking a homey dinner for your partner or group.

Fall in Fort Collins is the perfect blend of fall weather, cozy vibes and seasonal fun. If you’re ready to plan your fall visit to Fort Collins, book a Mountain Time vacation rental with all the comforts of home, and settle into your perfect autumn getaway.

Posted on 10/08/2025