Waters and fall colors: A perfect marriage in Colorado

In Colorado, fall is fleeting.

It’s a time to make a picture that will last a lifetime — a picture that captures our beloved, golden aspens in timeless beauty.

You’ll want water for that. Yes, we think the best shot pairs foliage with a blue, reflective foreground or a tumbling creek or cascade.

Here are eight possibilities to get you started.

Crystal Mill: It might be Colorado’s most celebrated image of autumn: a historic structure perched upon a rock amid a glowing grove above a turquoise, waterfall-fed pool. It’s a wonder the powerhouse has stayed in shape since its 1893 construction. Respect is a constant message to visitors. And a warning: From Marble, the narrow road to the mill requires a four-wheel drive.

The Grottos: On the eastern side of Independence Pass, visitors get Twin Lakes, a classic scene of autumn. On the western side, closer to Aspen, visitors can find a less-discussed watery playground: the Grottos. This is the day-use area suited for picnicking families and explorers who let their curiosity take them to waterfalls, caves and pools tucked among impressive rock outcrops.

Highway of Legends: Around Denver and Colorado Springs, people tend to flock west for colors rather than south. Don’t miss this scenic byway stretching 82 miles through loads of history and Spanish Peaks scenery. We last traveled the highway from Trinidad to La Veta, following the foliage along Purgatoire and Cucharas rivers and stopping to take in gorgeous Monument Lake.

Lake Isabel: This is another gem that’s often overlooked in southern Colorado. It’s super accessible and perfect for the whole family. Just take Interstate 25 and exit in Colorado City, following Colorado 165 about 18 miles to where the gold-spotted forest clears at the shimmering lake. A trail loops around it. Drive another six miles to Bishop Castle, an iconic roadside attraction.

Maroon Bells Scenic Area: You’ve no doubt seen the image: Those perfect, triangular peaks towering over the golden landscape surrounding Maroon Lake. If you haven’t shot it yourself — or, even better, simply stood in admiration by the shore — what are you waiting for? You’ll need to plan ahead. Parking or shuttle reservations are needed through October.

Silver Jack Reservoir: The 325-acre reservoir is found off Owl Creek Pass deep in the San Juan Mountains, backdropped by the natural beauty that set the scene in “True Grit.” Ridgway is the popular portal to the scenic drive, which, in dry conditions, can be managed by a sturdy passenger vehicle. Be sure to check maps for the county road spurs leading to the reservoir.

Taylor Reservoir: This is the big attraction for drivers along Cottonwood Pass, the paved road roaming over the Continental Divide from Buena Vista. But the reservoir is far from the only draw. From Buena Vista, pockets of color shine the whole way to the water framed by the Collegiate Peaks. You’ll want to continue for more leaf peeping along Taylor River toward Almont.

Upper Piney River Trail: Here’s one for the more adventurous, starting with the drive from Vail. The Forest Service outlines detailed directions for the fairly long, bumpy road, stopping near the private Piney River Ranch. Those who arrive get a great alpine lake view at the start. Then, after hiking about three miles through an aspen-laden river valley, a waterfall is the payoff.