Kenosha Pass: It’s a go-to for Front Range folks — an easy day trip from Denver out on U.S. 285. The highway travels past Conifer toward Fairplay, never rising above the trees; the glistening leaves stay with you all the way.

Peak to Peak Highway: The highway runs 55 miles between Central City and Estes Park. A common launch point is closer to the middle from Nederland, outside Boulder. The Rocky Mountain National Park skyline delights with the aspens.

Highway of Legends: The state’s newest national scenic byway — designated in 2021 — is often overlooked. Colorado 12 connects La Veta and Trinidad and offers stunning geology, Spanish and mining history and an aspen-sprinkled panorama above 11,000 feet.

Independence Pass: Colorado 82 is an iconic stretch from Twin Lakes, roaming up and over the Continental Divide. You may want to proceed to Aspen, where maybe you’ve made reservations to take the shuttle to the Maroon Bells.