Fall foliage on display at Mueller State Park

It’s a scene that takes your breath away, golden yellow aspens are lighting up the hills at Mueller State Park. Brilliant orange colors seem to sparkle in the breeze, and vibrant red colors just pop.

Pat Going, a Colorado Springs resident, loves autumn in Colorado.

“Oh this is such a special time in Colorado,” said Going. “If people don’t get out to the mountains, they’re really missing the opportunity.”

I talked to his wife Carol as well, and she agrees enthusiastically.

“It’s just — there’s nothing like it. It’s fabulous!” exclaimed Carol Going.

If you come for the colors, stay for the wildlife! I ran into a group of three deer.

It only takes about an hour to drive to Mueller State Park from Colorado Springs, and it’s well worth the time spent. Between 50-70 percent of the trees have changed colors.

Because of the drought, it was expected that these fall colors would peak faster and shorter than usual. However, rangers tell me that these colors are actually right on time – at least, at Mueller State Park. Even still, it would be best to head to the high country sooner rather than later before those fall foliage hues fade.

“There’s so much to enjoy,” added Pat Going. “The trails here at Mueller are just almost unlimited. And so, you know, you can hike as long as you want. And then, of course, headed back to town, there are lots of places to stop and eat and drink. It’s the perfect afternoon.”

We truly live in a beautiful place.